Jake Dressler Photo
MakeHaven, New Haven’s downtown “maker space,” now has a lot more space.
The organization has opened a new 5,000 square-foot center at 770 Chapel St. equipped with 3d printers, laser printers, wood working stations, metal working machines, brewing machines, tools, computers and sewing stations.
MakeHaven first opened its doors in 2012 after forming from a MeetUp group geared towards local inventors, DIYers and creatives. JR Logan, founder of MakeHaven, evolved the community from a small online group into a growing nonprofit with over 200 members and almost 20 volunteers.
The original MakeHaven was located on State Street around the corner from Café 9. Logan (pictured) planned to move to a bigger space to accommodate growing membership. Mayor Toni Harp helped cut the ceremonial ribbon for the improved new space at an event last week at 770 Chapel.
For $50 a month members have access to all the equipment the space has to offer. Logan and his staff conduct beginner-level orientations on all the machinery so even inexperienced members can reap the benefits of the space.
MakeHaven’s members range from curious students, to local artists, to business owners whose use of the space is integral to their business model. Chris Oflarity uses print equipment at MakeHaven to support his digital art studio (lunchmoneyprint). Other members come to work on their bicycles, frame photographs, or design circuit boards.
As a new generation of creators comes out of hiding to join MakeHaven, Logan said that his focus for this year is expansion.
“We want to bring in more metal working stations, and rentable work stations for startups,” Logan said. “As a person developing a craft, you can rent a desk and have a home base.”
Hear more from Logan and check out the space in the above video.
