ROCHESTER, Minn. — A small gift shop in Lower Town Rochester is finding a new purpose, providing a unique space for local creatives. Cassandra Buck, owner of Clover & Rose, has transformed her shop into The Neighborhood Nook, a space aimed at empowering local artists.

“It is confusing… signage is expensive,” Buck said, acknowledging the shop’s unconventional location. Despite this, Buck has moved her shop to the back area, making way for The Neighborhood Nook at the front.

Buck, known for her murals around Rochester and as a popular vintage shopkeeper, is now leaving her mark with this new endeavor. “Nook because it’s little and it’s cute,” she said. “I have a very small space but I want to empower local creatives by letting them utilize it.”

The Neighborhood Nook is located in the Kutzky and Washington neighborhood, an area with various creative spots. “We have a lot of cool spots here that are kind of on the outskirts of downtown,” Buck said, mentioning local favorites like Forager Brewery and Pop’s Theater.

R.B., who works at Forager Brewery and Parlor Donuts, expressed appreciation for the new resource. “I think it’s even better that we have a resource all the way in Lowertown and I think the more wall space we can get the better,” R.B. said.

The Nook is open for artist exhibits, classes, receptions, or even as a studio area. Buck also envisions it being used for small band practices. “I finally was able to work my way up into getting a space and I am hoping this will be a way to help people while also keeping my shop open,” Buck said.

Buck hopes the space will foster connections between the local community and the creative community. “I am trying to make this as accessible for people and affordable,” she said.

To kick off this creative endeavor, Buck is hosting a 12 Days of Christmas event and is seeking eight artists or creators interested in selling their work over a 12-day period. This event will lead up to the Forager Holiday Market and sleigh rides on December 21.

Located at 923 Sixth Street Northwest in Rochester, The Neighborhood Nook is next to Forager Brewery and Jack’s Bottle Shop. While Clover & Rose isn’t open every day, The Neighborhood Nook is available as long as people book it. Check their Instagram and Facebook pages for current hours or schedule an appointment at 507-319-4038.