The Ratner is a historic, creative office building occupying an entire city block in San Diego’s East Village and located in the heart of the I.D.E.A. District. Built in 1925, this building is becoming a hot spot for digital media agencies, production companies, and culture-oriented tech companies, attracting a string of Los Angeles-style production companies looking for stylish city vibes.
Formerly known as The Art Center, the property was recently renovated and rebranded as "The Ratner." It's inspired by the rich history of the Ratner family, which established its highly successful men’s clothing company in the building in the 1920s, manufacturing men’s suits and sports coats. Throughout multiple generations, Ratner Clothes operated in the building until 1989, becoming the largest manufacturer of men’s clothing west of the Mississippi and eventually acquiring the rights to the Hang Ten sportswear trademarks in the 1980s. In 1989, Ratner Clothes sold its clothing business and became Carleton Management, focusing on the family’s real estate holdings. The new name, The Ratner, pays homage to the entrepreneurial and artisanal spirit of one of San Diego’s most successful startups and the family’s extensive legacy of philanthropy, supporting all types of causes within the arts, health, education, science, and social services.
The building’s historical character, unique amenities, and industrial-hip vibe create an authentic atmosphere for a true "creative" office or design studio. Designed during an era without electricity, the building’s large windows and spacious ceilings provide natural light and an atmosphere that draws in artists. The Ratner offers the synergy and community of like-minded individuals across numerous industries such as marketing, PR, architecture, photography, film production, music, and visual arts.
The Ratner presents 144,000-square-feet of commercial space. Companies are naturally inspired to create, collaborate, and refine their craft while fostering the East Village live-work-play lifestyle for their teams. Suites range up to 10,000 SF, capable of meeting all space requirements, from independent contractors and start-ups to well-established, flourishing enterprises.