In downtown Spokane there sits a shared space dining venue. The Saranac Commons has four flavor spots in one location. The space is open and the layout is designed so that no matter where a customer walks up and purchases from, they can sit wherever they like.
Four businesses reside in the commons: Black Label Brewing, Boots Bakery and Lounge, Hatch Beaker + Burr and Spokane Slice. The Saranac Commons is a part of the Community Building Campus. The Community Building Campus was a set of six run down buildings renovated by Jim Sheehan, a public defender.
“This building, this whole block, Jim Sheehan, It’s an amazing story,” Alison Collins said, owner of Boots Bakery and Lounge. “He got an unexpected inheritance from an aunt. I mean it’s brilliant, he decided to do this block.”
The buildings were renovated with an emphasis on preserving human connection. This philosophy demonstrates why the commons are designed with the businesses together in one space.
Darin Talotti, the owner of Spokane Slice, explains why the Commons work as a space.
“[Say] someone’s going in there and wants to eat vegan but their friend’s not vegan or whatever,” Talotti said. “They’re like, I’m gonna go over there and get something, and then I want to get a coffee. Oh, I’m kind of snacky. I’m gonna go grab that, because everyone can still be together, same space.”
The Saranac Commons are suitable for people who want to get takeout or for people who want to dine in the space. Many customers utilize the commons beyond getting food or drink, too.
“People freely sit down, come and go,” Talotti said. “They study, they’ll work, where in other spots, you might not feel as comfortable to do that.”
Returning customer Jenny Van Hout shares her experience with the Commons.
“[It is] Low key but very easy and nice and for that reason, relaxing,” Van Hout said.
She also describes what keeps her coming back.
“I come here to work, I come here to get coffee, I occasionally come here for the brewery in the back, coffee first and foremost,” Van Hout said. “I think it’s the best coffee shop in town to be honest.”
