On Saturday, April 29, Independent Bookstore Day, Farley’s Bookshop in New Hope reopened after four months of extensive building renovations.
The renovations were planned and carried out by Modern Recycled Spaces, the building’s owner.
“We’re happy to be back at our home on Main Street,” owner Julian Karhumaa said. “The team at Modern Recycled Spaces has done a remarkable job, nothing short of extraordinary.” The building that houses Farley’s Bookshop dates back to 1804 and was in need of repair. After much planning the renovations began in January.
“They saved the building,” owner Buffy Hastings said. “What Modern Recycled Spaces accomplished in four months is incredible. We wouldn’t have been able to stay in town without their hard work, thoughtful planning and design. They’ve really shown New Hope what’s possible, how to update a building without destroying its character, how to support and sustain local business. But then, they’re locals and understood us, our needs and the building’s needs in a deep and honest way.”
When asked about the new space and the bookshop’s future owner Katie Hastings said, “We hope our customers like what’s been done, the openness and natural light and great views. We’re still the same store, same bookmarks, same great selection. Just a new look. There’s great events coming up. We’re open every day. There’s so much in store for the community.”
Owner Charles Balfour added, “That’s what it’s about for us, community. We’ve got local artists’ work on the walls. We built our register only out of wood that grew and was cut and milled in Bucks County. The community has supported us since 1967 and has supported us over the last four months. We’re excited to give back to them.”
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