Peace House Studio, an online retailer specializing in children’s clothing, is set to open a new physical location in Bath, expanding its operations from a small space above a garage to a dedicated storefront on Centre Street. The move is scheduled for February 2024, marking a significant milestone for owners Nick and Kate Bergmann, who have successfully navigated the challenges of running a business since its inception during the pandemic in 2020.
New Storefront Enhances Business Opportunities
The new location at 9 Centre St. will provide a spacious 2,300 square feet area, a major upgrade from the previous 650 square feet. This expansion is not only about increasing space but also about enhancing customer experience. “I believe that clothing is very visceral, where you can feel the quality of it, rather than just seeing something online,” said Nick Bergmann.
To assist with the transition, Peace House Studio will utilize $12,500 from the city’s Fit Up Grants. This funding will help build out the retail section and purchase industrial sewing machines, allowing the Bergmanns to improve their production capabilities. Nick described the timing of the grant as “wonderful,” coinciding perfectly with their lease signing.
Community Collaboration and Sustainable Practices
Since launching, Peace House Studio has primarily generated sales through in-person maker markets. The new store will create an opportunity for customers to directly engage with their products. The Bergmanns, who are parents of three, emphasize the importance of creating durable clothing that can be passed down and repaired as needed.
In addition to children’s wear, the studio plans to introduce adult clothing options, a decision driven by customer demand. Nick added, “That was another area where the customer led us, because we had figured that we would only be a children’s clothing company until adults kept asking.”
As the business grows, the Bergmanns remain committed to sustainability, focusing on vibrant colors and bold patterns that appeal to families while reducing waste. They have also begun collaborating with other local artists, including Rachel Gloria Adams from Portland, whose prints have seen remarkable sales success.
With the opening of the new storefront, Peace House Studio aims to further solidify its position in the local market while continuing to support Maine artists. This expansion not only represents a new chapter for the Bergmanns but also highlights their commitment to community and sustainability in the fashion industry.
