Ever dreamed of living somewhere without needing a car? That's exactly what Joinery provides. The mixed-use, car-optional community in Optimist Park opened in 2022, providing housing, free e-bike and carshare rentals, and walking distance to the Light Rail.

This year, Joinery is expanding its neighborhood with 14 storefronts, additional apartments, and an official pedestrian-only retail corridor.

Anticipation for the Alley

Joinery Alley, a pedestrian-only corridor, will be located between the three Joinery buildings, creating a car-free passage designed for strolling, gathering, and creating community. Fun fact: The alley was inspired by Japanese yokocho streets.

Space Craft, the Charlotte-based urbanist developer behind Joinery, will host a grand opening for Joinery Alley this year. Developers expect to host food trucks, concerts, farmers markets, artist showcases, and pop-up events throughout the year.

“We want Joinery Alley to become more than a place to shop,” said Emma Kenney, asset and retail manager at Space Craft. “It’s meant to be a space the community helps shape, and that reflects the creativity, energy, and everyday life in Optimist Park.”

Prepare to start your day at Night Swim Coffee before visiting Joinery Alley. | Photo via NiceDay

Retailers open + coming soon

When fully leased, Joinery will boast 14 retailers. Night Swim Coffee, Ridpath Insurance, and BK Pilates are all open, bringing caffeine, careers, and contemporary reformer classes to Optimist Park.ok alliteration i see u

Coming soon, Roz Café will serve Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and baked goods, while Small Bar NoDa will offer lunch, dinner, handcrafted cocktails, and events. Beauty Embrace, a brow studio, is also slated to open. Exact dates are TBA — subscribe to our newsletter so you don't miss the news.

Editor Maria, here. I'm particularly excited for Sharigato, a dedicated sushi hand roll bar, to open. It looks like they're getting close.love an editor's pick!