Cities worldwide have been capitalizing on communal spaces. Shared office spaces and pop-up exhibitions are a few examples of how these spaces can bring people together. In the midst of Downtown, Toronto, Stackt Market is the latest addition to these spaces. After hearing mainly positive reviews from the concept, I visited Stackt to pinpoint what made it special.
Stackt was heavily advertised on my socials for a while. In fact, it was the Inkbox temporary tattoo parlour that made my visit imperative. Besides being a great backdrop for industrial-themed photos, I was intrigued with how Stackt’s developers would marry retail with unused shipping containers. My heightened curiosity needed answers, and I hoped to achieve them.
Upon arrival, I was pleasantly surprised to see three stories of black shipping containers enclosing a small space of land that overlooked several trains entering and exiting Toronto. Stackt’s goal is to make use of otherwise useless land and “inspire discovery and thinking”. With that in mind, the several dining and retail outlets in the premises was complemented with meetings rooms and rentable studios.
Stackt’s current tenants include Sonos, Donut Monster, and Indigo. However, as a fashion addict, I loved checking Mack House which is a DIY sneaker studio where anyone can customize a fresh pair of kicks alongside other creative minds. In addition to retail, Stackt housed plenty of outdoor furniture to relax. I enjoyed a gourmet donut and a good conversation while viewing Jason Botkin’s street art displayed around the vicinity.
After my visit, I believe Stackt is a concept that should be adopted by more high-volume cities. The developers did an excellent job of integrating a modern community area within a space too small to be utilized. Located on 28 Bathurst Street, just off King Street West, Stackt successfully accomplished their goal to unite Torontonians through curiosity. Before the summer ends, I definitely recommend a visit.
Candidly,
Jonah