In early November, 2022, I convened with Erin O’Donnell ¬a real estate agent¬ for an Airbnb photoshoot. The Airbnb is located on Division St., in the heart of downtown Northfield ¬ adjacent to Aquatic Pets and [currently] The Quality Bakery. Arriving, I glanced to the ground, and noticed a potted plant in between the two stores in front of a doorway. It was almost like a hidden clue, giving direction on where to go next.
I arrived, without having had my morning coffee. I could use a bit, I thought to myself. O’Donnell greeted me with her smiling face, and a pair of sparkling green eyes. I could see the reason for her enthusiasm: her and her husband’s efforts were about to pay off. I nearly forgot about my need for coffee, when she led me through the historic space. Its openness had me in awe with its 14-foot-white-tin-ceilings, and a view of downtown. A pair of antique, crystal chandeliers dripped above us like ice cycles in the loft. Overall it felt clean, with an added a hug of vintage charm.
“You have to try the couch out,” she informed me. I could see that these couches would be perfect for a nap. I sat upon one … it was very, soft.
After the introduction, she encouraged me to go grab a cappuccino at the new café! I got even more excited. The town was enlivening with newness and creativity. The landscape of downtown was changing, and I wanted to capture the moment. I was curious as to O’Donnell’s overall inspiration. She shared,
“As a child I spent nearly all my play-time creating spaces.” O’Donnell said. “I would spend hours rearranging my room, building forts and outdoor dream doll houses for my barbies … getting lost in inspiration. About I year ago I, and my husband purchased 414 Division St. This two-story brick building on Division St. is one of the oldest remaining buildings in the city, built in 1894. We intend to eventually renovate it to how it looked when it was built, both inside and out.”
The couple had begun the transformation of the space with its low drop-ceiling, to its now ascending ones. O’Donnell’s husband Devin, had put in a solid work and ‘elbow grease.’ With a coat of fresh paint and trim to reflect the 19th Century, it was hard to imagine now, that it hadn’t stayed this way for an entire century. With a few new touches in the bathroom for modernization twists, and a piece of Erin’s original artwork upon the wall, the loft was unique.
“We wanted to create an experience where people could visit and step back-in-time. Heck, you can even watch Jesse [James] and his gang battle it out, right out of your window. You could even spit on his head if you have good aim! We love an opportunity to share with our community a place where they can experience Northfield how it was.” O’Donnell added.
The couple had their first Defeat of Jesse James Days visitors! They’re quickly getting noticed by visitors of the local colleges. It truly is a fresh space with a historical, creative heart, ready to charm and intrigue yours.
