According to a recent article from Block Club Chicago, Qideas will be revamping its space to now include Haibayo, located at 1134 W Argyle Street.
A representative of Qideas and Haibayo was not immediately available for commentary upon What Now Chicago’s request.
According to the article, Qideas will close on October 1st, with a city grant partially funding the redevelopment. The founders hope to re-open with the new and additional concept sometime in January of 2024.
Qideas is described as a beloved plant, gift, and restaurant supply shop. In partnership with Haibayo, a community-focused nonprofit, the space will be reborn as a vibrant community hub featuring a business incubator, programs for the public, a cafe, and a bar. This initiative aims to reinvigorate the Asian corridor in the Argyle District, which is said to have faced challenges in recent years and create a collaborative space for entrepreneurs and creatives.
Haibayo was founded in 2019 by Hac Tran and Jennifer Pham, who initially organized food and art pop-up events to boost foot traffic on Argyle Street and foster community collaboration. However, the organization is said to have pivoted during the pandemic to support local restaurants and businesses facing economic difficulties.
Qideas had originally opened in 2002 and was looking for ways to better utilize its space when its lease was nearing its end. Ellen Duong, the owner, collaborated with Tran and Pham to transform the store into a hybrid retail and community center. The redevelopment project will include a multi-purpose community space, a bar and cafe serving an array of teas and non-alcoholic beverages, workshops, live music, and programs for various age groups.
The revamped Qideas will maintain its offerings, including plants and Buddhist artifacts while incorporating more local art and providing business incubator space for aspiring entrepreneurs. Their vision is to inspire the next generation of Asian Americans and revitalize Argyle Street, according to the Block Club Chicago article.
According to Loop Net, the property spans a total of 8,046 square feet. It is also stated to be conveniently located near multiple public transportation routes.
