Popuphood.

Did you know that in the early days of DWR, our office was based in West Oakland? This is a place that is near and dear to our heart, and we're excited to report that the city has just implemented an interesting new way to revitalize it's beautiful downtown historic district. "Popuphood" is a new urban initiative that placed six new locally-owned retail shops in previously vacant store fronts with six months free rent. Watch the video to get the full scoop on this cool community-based initiative.

Comments

[Duncan]

Could you please tell us candidly why you left Oakland?

My understanding is the city government there is very heavy-handed & business unfriendly, e.g-ridiculous laws meant to punish those that make money, high taxes, etc.

Is this correct?

[DWR]

Interesting. We didn't experience anything like that, but we weren't in Oakland very long. Downtown San Francisco was more convenient for our employees, and it was always our goal to have the headquarters there in our early years. Now we're in CT and loving being so close to NYC. Although, we do miss the West Coast. San Francisco (and Oakland) will always be part of the DNA of Design Within Reach. -DWR