Since 1981, PlantShed has supplied New York City with stunning plants and flower arrangements out of their multi-level Upper West Side store and rooftop greenhouse. Last month, the business opened its doors to its first downtown location and second floral café (the first opened this past May just blocks away from the flagship).
The café-meets-flower shop concept, created by CEO Eric Mourkakos, emerged in an effort to add something fresh and contemporary to the company that his grandfather started decades prior. Whether guests in search of some city relief park themselves in the café for the day or pop in for a morning coffee, experiencing this space is a breath of fresh air. Between the lovely baristas, designers, and horticulturalists—not to mention the lush, floral surroundings—the bright, cheerful space feels peaceful and good for the soul.
“We believe in creating environments that encourage you to take your time, enjoy artisanal coffee, and hopefully gain valuable plant-based knowledge,” says Mourkakos.
This recently opened Nolita location features a bar fully equipped to whip up art-like cappuccinos and lattes, plus a selection of potted plants, succulents, cacti, and pre-made bouquets. There’s also the option to consult with the designer to create a unique bouquet in-store if you’d prefer to be a part of the creative process.
PlantShed as a whole prides itself on taking the time to work with each customer on an individual basis to customize exclusive, exceptional arrangements, regardless of the order size or occasion. The company's knowledgeable, experienced buyers and design team continue to build the relationships they’ve had for years, as well as forge new ones with farms and vendors from all over the world. The Nolita café also collaborates with local artists, including Curtis Kulig’s bouquet wrapping paper with his signature “Love Me” tag, and Botega Rose’s pieces integrated with PlantShed’s products. Also available is a selection of handmade pottery from Middle Kingdom and Maine-based Elizabeth Benotti.
What’s in store for the future of PlantShed? As for the Nolita café, Mourkakos would love to add to the Prince Street streetscape by opening up the window walls and adding outdoor seating. While that may not happen until early 2019, the plan for the Upper West Side location is to also offer some outdoor seating possibly as early as this fall. Workshops, already occasionally happening in the Upper West Side greenhouse, will happen more formally and consistently at all three locations starting this fall. Long-term, PlantShed’s goal is to spread their concept to other areas of New York City and beyond.
