article by Doug Holder
Nestled behind the P.A's .Lounge off of Somerville Ave., 1 Bow Market Way, to be exact—is a
new public market--the Bow Market-- brought to you by Zach Baum and his other
co-conspirators. Baum-- a graduate of Tufts University-- who has a
background in high tech and real estate development, told me he was
influenced by the Agora-style markets in ancient Greece-- public
open spaces used for assemblies and markets. Baum-- a man with curly
mop of red-brownish hair and an affable manner told me, “We really
wanted to create a vibrant place—with affordable spaces for
artists, food markets, and a host of small vendors who might have
been forced out of the market because of high rents. Here they would
all share the same facilities, like the courtyard, bathrooms, etc...
and many of the places are a 1,000 month to rent or less.”
I sat outside with Baum in the
courtyard in front of the Remnant Brewery—an inviting space—with
a gleaming metal brewery-and undoubtedly producing tasty craft beer.
I saw a space for a macaroon shop, and Baum told me there is going to
be (or currently there is) a fishmonger, spaces for
immigrant food shops, caterers, art galleries, a chocolatier and yes--The Comedy
Studio. This was the very venue for upcoming comedians and their
loyal audiences that was priced out of the Hong Kong Restaurant in
Harvard Square. Baum also told me there will be spaces for vintage
clothes, stationary shops, shoe retailers, and more.
Interestingly enough, according to
Baum—60% of the vendors will be women and over 45% will be
people of color. He feels the low rents will provide opportunities
for this population.
Baum told me at the end of the summer
there will be a grand opening. I plan to be there-- hoisting a craft
beer and basking under the late summer sun.
For more information go to:
http://www.bowmarketsomerville. com
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