BALLARD — The development company behind Ballard’s newest mega apartment complex has confirmed today that their (mandated) 1st-floor retail space could be anything from a new fitness studio to an empty storefront in perpetuity.
“The modern tenant wants to live above something that brings value to their lives,” says complex developer Doug Spanscrap. “Most people assume that means a pilates studio or a coffee shop, but what brings more value than the HOPE of something amazing to come?”
This “hope” is why Spanscrap says many developers are more than happy with empty retail space. “We could we easily get a hip new bakery in that very well could close in 1-2 year. Why cause our tenants disappointment like that? Instead, sometimes it’s best to leave the opportunity open. Anything is possible when you have a blank canvas.”
At the time of publish, the available space has generated interest from several prospective tenants, including a boutique dog wellness concept, a candle shop that also serves wine, a laundromat specializing in baroque-style attire, and absolutely no one willing to pay the asking rent.
