Howey Place is back to its vibrant best, with five new pop-ups opening their doors as part of a City of Melbourne initiative to revitalise empty shopfronts.
The $2.6 million Shopfront Activation Program is giving local creatives, artisans and entrepreneurs the opportunity to breathe new life into empty retail spaces with one-of-a-kind offerings to reignite parts of the city that need it most.
The new pop-ups form the ‘Handmade in Howey’ makers’ hub, which features:
- Lastly – offering artistically designed and limited-run unisex streetwear
- Mr Cuff – a bespoke men’s tailoring store with custom and ready-to-wear options
- Ms Edie Black – for artisan jewellery made from iron, low carbon steel and high carat gold
- The Eklectic Sewing Centre – stocking ethically-made designer clothing, with in-house dressmaking services
- The Curvy Design Shop – with some of the best ethical Australian plus-size designer clothing, starting at size 14.
Dozens of vacant spaces in the CBD, Docklands and Lygon Street have now been transformed through the Shopfront Activation Program, which provides emerging businesses with a unique opportunity to put their ideas to the test.
From creative spaces and bespoke displays to incredible pop-up shops, the program brings a dynamic collection of new offerings for Melburnians to experience in the heart of the city.
Howey Place will also be adorned with a magical balloon cloud installation as part of City of Melbourne’s ‘Shop the City: Winter Weekend’ from 3 – 5 June. Over the weekend, shoppers can pop into Howey Place for free cannoli and hot chocolates, as well as live entertainment as part of the city-wide shopping festival.
The Shopfront Activation Program is part of the $100 million Melbourne City Recovery Fund – a partnership between the City of Melbourne and the Victorian Government.
Quotes attributable to Lord Mayor Sally Capp
“We’re giving vacant spaces across Melbourne a new lease on life with our Shopfront Activation Program, while shining a light on some of Melbourne’s finest creative and business minds.
“The reimagining of Howey Place into a lively makers’ hub is a celebration of Melbourne artisans, and just one of the city’s many vibrant precincts which has re-emerged as part of our ongoing recovery efforts.
“Whether it’s one-of-a-kind handmade jewelry, ethically-made clothing or an expertly crafted suit you’re after, the new-look Howey Place is a uniquely Melbourne must-visit in the creative epicenter of the city.”
Quotes attributable to Business and Global Opportunities portfolio lead Councillor Kevin Louey
“From its humble heritage as a back alley in the 1800s, talented local designers have transformed Howey Place into a buzzing hub for makers and creators.
“We know that local businesses play a critical role in revitalising the city, and we’re pleased to be working alongside emerging entrepreneurs to provide a new platform to showcase their offerings, providing a much-needed boost to the local economy.”
