Teroforma

May 10, 2009

Design Walks // Bushwick, Brooklyn

Located just a short train ride from Union Square is a glimpse of what Manhattan’s SoHo was probably like back in its industrial heyday, long before it ever saw the likes of stores such as Alessi or Longchamp. East Williamsburg - or Bushwick to the locals - is as much an artists’ haven as it is one of the only corners of wider New York City that has gracefully resisted gentrification, a rarity even in Brooklyn these days.

Stepping out onto Bogart Street from the Morgan Avenue exit off the L train, you’re immediately immersed in a wash of re-purposed factory space and 20/30-somethings running around with paint splatters on their shoes. There’s a sense that anything is possible here and that the people you pass are busy doing it. And after spending an afternoon walking its streets, you understand why the hipsters are taking up residence in Bushwick but keeping the frills to a minimum. Despite the friendly behavior and welcoming attitude, it’s clear they’re not eager to see their undiscovered bohemian village become saturated with rows of “independent” boutiques, coffee shops and imported quirkiness. The residents are entertaining enough.

The best way to start a Saturday afternoon in Bushwick is with brunch at Life Café NINE83, located on Flushing Avenue at Central Avenue. The sister location to the East Village original, Life is a great place to hang out with friends and discuss future projects or just relax over a pint. You can see why Jonathan Larson found inspiration for his cult Broadway hit “Rent” at the East Village location, as owner Kathleen Kirkpatrick ensures that the Brooklyn location is still a place where artists and musicians can come together. The menu boasts classic favorites like French toast or scrambled eggs with bacon in addition to vegan-friendly options, substituting tofu for meat and using casein-free soy cheese in their dishes.

Upon leaving Life, take a stroll down Bogart Street and stop at The Archive Café for a post-brunch coffee. Have a seat on the vintage couch for some people-watching or peruse their selection of DVDs, as the café does double-duty as a movie rental shop. A neighborhood hub, Archive offers free Wi-Fi service allowing for major hang time on a budget, since a cup of Harney & Sons tea will only set you back $1.50. The Edison light bulbs and large worktables keep to the theme of what’s going on outside the graffiti-covered steel door, and provide a charming interior without feeling stereotypical.

Put your caffeine buzz to good use and pop next door to The Archive at Ad Hoc, before heading over to 3rd Ward down the block. On current display at Ad Hoc is a collection of works executed by a group of international female pop surrealists. 3rd Ward is a 20,000-square-foot creative facility that boasts everything from studio space for photo shoots to a woodshop. Depending on when you’re there, the gallery may have an exhibit on display, featuring any medium imaginable, or you might find yourself in the middle of filmmakers’ showcase. If possible you should make your way there on 7 December for their Handmade Holiday Craft Fair.

Finally, reward yourself at King’s County, a bar on Siegel Street known for its wide variety of whisk(e) y at fair prices. The all-black interior may seem alarming at first glance, but its knowledgeable bar staff and sociable crowd make you feel completely at ease.

While Bushwick isn’t booming with tourists, the area itself is full of life and its quirky outposts are a promising sign that there are people out there who find meaning in what they’re doing with or without grand acknowledgment from the masses.

Karen Day is a freelance writer, a budding photographer, an experienced traveler and a terrible tourist.