Opening the shop in the War Streets has been one of the scariest things we’ve ever done. We knew the other shops that had been in the space – we were involved with Beleza coffee in their early stages – so when we saw a sign from the landlord that said “if you have interest in being a part of this reopening give us a call” we gave him a call to see if we could help. But, as life happens, so did the journey of Commonplace eventually taking on this space.
Just like with Squirrel Hill and Voluto, close friends and employees who were raising a family in the neighborhood were ready to lead a community effort. Frank and Belle, have not just been the force behind this shop opening, but one of the biggest reasons it is what it is today. Their heart and vision to keep the shop community-centric, to honor the love and desires of the most recent owners, and to design and run a shop that reflects both the mission of Commonplace and the neighborhood is the reason it is the space it is today.