Kate & Co. Breathes New Life into Historic Downtown Erie with Exciting Relocation
Revitalizing the Past for a Bright Future
Historic charm and modern innovation are about to collide in downtown Erie as Kate & Co., a dynamic marketing and communications firm, relocates its headquarters to a 155-year-old building that has long awaited revival. The firm, known for its impactful branding strategies and commitment to fostering community engagement, is making waves with their $4.5 million renovation project, expected to be completed by 2026.
Embracing Heritage and Modernity
Located at 111 W. 11th St., this revitalized space, formerly home to the A.K.D. Printing Company, stands as a testament to Erie’s architectural history. Kate Philips, CEO of Kate & Co. and vision behind the project, emphasizes the firm’s mission to reflect both heritage and modern business needs:
“We’re leaning into the original structure as much as we can but then modernizing it in a way that I think Erie is being modernized,” she said.
A Grand Unveiling: Demolition Ceremony Kicks Off Renovations
The excitement kicked off with a special demolition ceremony featuring a wrecking ball that shattered the building’s outdated front façade. This symbolic act marked the beginning of a transformative journey, blending the building's historical essence with fresh, modern design.
“This new space will not only serve as the heart of our operations but also strengthen our commitment to fostering creativity, collaboration, and community engagement right here in Erie," Philips expressed on this milestone day.
Symbol of Strength: The Foundation of Resilience
Besides its historical value, the building itself symbolizes resilience and strength. Philip notes the building’s survival from the 1915 flood, which devastated much of downtown Erie:
“We see it as a symbol of strength and resilience, which we see our company is a lot like that too. We’re excited to bring it back to life.”
The preservation of features such as the iron fire escape and the vintage printing press shows a commitment to honoring the past while paving the way for innovation. These elements will serve as reminders of Erie’s rich history, wrapped within a modern marketing hub.
Champions of Local Revival
Kate & Co.’s history is intertwined with Erie itself. Founded in 2016, the company has been a driving force in local marketing ever since, beginning its journey at the Renaissance Center before transitioning to Tower Lane in 2019. With the new headquarters, they aim to strengthen their roots within the community and encourage local entrepreneurship.
In the words of Erie Mayor Joe Schember, “This project will preserve a piece of Erie’s history and contribute to the revitalization of downtown Erie.”
The Future of Kate & Co.
As Kate & Co. forges ahead with their vision, their new headquarters will not only serve as a workspace but also serve as a catalyst for creativity and collaboration in Erie. The firm aims to be a cornerstone in the region's cultural and economic renaissance, ensuring that both old and new can thrive together.
Emphasizing their community involvement and modern marketing prowess, Kate & Co. is poised to take their place at the forefront of Erie’s evolving landscape.
For more information on Kate & Co., visit their official website at Kate & Co..
Conclusion
In this ambitious project, Kate & Co. demonstrates that honor for the past and aspirations for the future can coexist beautifully. As they prepare for a grand opening in 2026, the entire community eagerly awaits the unveiling of a space that promises to inspire, connect, and revitalize downtown Erie—one marketing strategy at a time.
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Stay tuned as we follow the progress of this exciting renovation and the future of Kate & Co.!
