Meet Chris Bennett of Anaheim Packing District in Orange County

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Bennett.

Chris, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’ve been blessed to work under some amazing mentors who have each pushed the envelope of development and design. 15 years ago, I met Shaheen and Linda Sadeghi. At the time, they were the only ones in Orange County who were bringing fresh real estate ideas to life. We have been dreaming and building together since, and we still have more dreams than built projects on the list.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Developing new ideas is difficult. City codes are often focused on what has been built in the past and they are not looking towards how people are going to be working, living, etc. in the future. Luckily, we have found some local cities, like Anaheim, who are progressive, forward thinking and willing to work with us to bring new concepts to life.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Anaheim Packing District – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Our company is called LAB- (Little American Businesses) and is built around the idea of creating environments that support local/independent retailers, makers and artists and serve as cultural centers for their neighborhoods.

Two things that I really enjoy about my work:
– seeing a new business get established and flourish in one of our projects. We work with some amazing young entrepreneurs, and to watch their success if really rewarding.
– doing an image search on one of my projects and seeing the feed filled with engagement and family photos. This signals to me that the design is good and that the neighborhood has taken some ownership of the space.

So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I am personally interested in how people’s perception of their living space and work space are changing and think there is a great opportunity to create space that is more social/communal for both uses.

Contact Info:

• Address: 336-500 S. Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92805
• Website: anaheimpackingdistrict.com
• Phone: 714 533 7225
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: instagram.com/packingdistrict
• Facebook: facebook.com/packingdistrict
• Twitter: twitter.com/packingdistrict
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/anaheim-packing-district-anaheim

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