Join Buster’s this weekend for their grand re-opening!
Bristerfest in Overton Square
Join Bristerfest in Overton Square this fall in The Tower Courtyard on Saturday, October 10th from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Bristerfest is a fun, family-friendly event that benefits urban gardening in Memphis, Tennessee. The fifth annual Brister Street Music Festival will take place at Overton Square’s Tower Courtyard from 11am-6pm on Saturday, October 10th, 2015.
Bring your friends, bring your family, this is going to be a good time! We are preparing to make this year the best Bristerfest ever. Shop with local vendors and artists in our festival marketplace along Trimble street. Enjoy the sweet sounds of Memphis with an eclectic, entertaining local music lineup.
A portion of proceeds benefits GrowMemphis to build new urban gardens, to make Memphis a healthy, sustainable city.
Loeb Properties at Carpenter Art Garden
Loeb Properties employees love helping in the community, especially with The Carpenter Art Garden. We recently spent some time there with Donte, the artist of the Grizzlies Yard Hearts. Donte is a talented young man!
Southern Junkers Market at Overton Square
Join the Southern Junkers Fall Market in Overton Square this season on the South Lot of Overton Square at 25 South Cooper off of Trimble Place.
Featuring a juried Vintage, Antique and Artisan Outdoor Market with jewelry, art, antiques, unique and weird stuff; collectables, handmade, rusty crusty and cool junk!
Saturday, Sep 12, 2015 thru Sunday, Sep 13, 2015
Saturday 10:00 am to 7:00 pm; Sunday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
No Vacancies: Overton Square 100% Leased
"Six years ago its then-leasing agent described the mostly empty Overton Square as an outdated commercial center, much of which should be razed and rebuilt with a big-box grocery behind a suburban-style parking lot.
But on Tuesday came confirmation that the preserved and renovated Square is 100 percent leased with the signing of its 27th tenant, women’s clothing store The Ivory Closet at 2095 Madison.
“I think that had somebody told me it would be 100 percent occupied at this point in time we probably wouldn’t have forecast that conservatively,” said Aaron Petree, leasing broker for Square owner Loeb Properties.
With a long list of more businesses that have expressed an interest in moving into the walker-friendly Midtown entertainment district, Memphis-based Loeb Properties is now making plans to erect new retail space on the last few surface parking lots that line Cooper and Madison."
MUS Today: Overton Square Over Again
"That was Overton Square in the 1970s, conceived by a group of young and ambitious businessmen. They transformed the quiet Midtown intersection of Cooper and Madison into Memphis’ premier destination for a good time. Judging by recent Friday night crowds, one might imagine that the mojo never subsided – that the patios have always been a swirling mix of theatergoers, bachelor parties, yoga students, and foodies. But not only did Overton Square spend nearly two decades on life support, it nearly flatlined a few years ago.
The storefronts were bare. Out-of-town owners balked at the cost of renovation. Bulldozers would flatten the block. In its place would rise a strip mall and a discount grocery store. Fortunately, Overton Square was reclaimed by Memphians who wanted their good times back. It required a special group of people to build – and then rebuild – the heart of Midtown Memphis. But then, Overton Square has always benefited from bold and progressive backers – many of whom call Memphis University School their alma mater."
Overton Square To Host October Blues Festival
"Overton Square will host a two-day blues festival in October billed as the first of its kind in the city since 1969.
The Bona Fide Blues Festival on Oct. 2 and 3 is being presented by the Memphis Blues Society and will feature two free outdoor stages in the entertainment district. It also will include blues performances in four Overton Square businesses using $25 wristbands. A $100 VIP wristband includes admission to a party before the two-day festival."
Make a Mess: Vergos Sisters Open Art Studio for Kids in Overton Square
"If you eat a plate of ribs at Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous, you’re likely to walk away with messy fingers. You’re also likely to get messy at a new business in Overton Square, where sisters Anna Vergos Blair and Katherine Vergos Riederer have opened their kid-friendly creativity zone The Art Project.
Only six months ago, the pair dreamed up a place where kids could make art, parents could engage or kick back with adult beverages, and no one’s carpet had to be made a casualty.
“Basically anything that makes a mess, (my daughter Matilda) loves, but I didn’t love the mess in my house,” Blair said. “I started looking for a place to do free art, free in the sense of let them do what they want and explore different materials with no real set projects or no visible outcomes."
Behind-The-Scenes Look at the New Newby's
After being resuscitated by Loeb Properties Inc. Newby’s on the Highland Strip has received a new lease on life — literally.
Larry Thompson and his business partners just inked the deal on the 539 S. Highland St. property. The former 535 S. Highland St. building, which had also been occupied by the original Newby’s, will be leased to a separate tenant.
Loeb bought both buildings from Paragon Bank in December 2014 after Newby’s fell into foreclosure. Loeb then proceeded to do what they are known for: take an old building, mend its aging bones and find new tenants. Part of the update included replacing the roof and installing new plumbing and electric.
Newby’s to Reopen on Highland Strip
"Foreclosed, sold and now reborn — Newby’s is on its way back.
The longstanding bar located at 535 and 539 S. Highland St. was sold to Loeb Properties Inc. in December 2014 after being foreclosed on by Paragon Bank. The then-Newby’s bar was just shy of celebrating its 40th anniversary.
Loeb gave the space some much-needed TLC, and now, the new tenant, Larry Thompson, will finish the job.
Thompson, a University of Memphis graduate, is also a former Newby’s employee, and he owned a wings restaurant in Colorado. He will relaunch the bar under the same signature name and plans to build on its rich history.
“Newby’s was just too good of an opportunity to pass on,” Thompson said. “I want to keep Newby’s alive. I don’t want to change it.”"
Memphis Magazine: When It Was Hip To Be Square
"Their breath fogging the glass, the young men and women pressed their faces against the windows of Bombay Bicycle Club. Somebody outside was checking a thermometer, counting down the numbers as the temperature dropped: 30, then 29, then 28. "What's taking them so long?" a man demanded. Inside the crowded club, a woman finally shouted, "Here it comes!" and everyone glimpsed the first snowflakes — first a few, but within minutes, a veritable blizzard. People dashed outside, catching the flakes in their hands, laughing and cheering, and even throwing snowballs. Soon a white blanket covered the streets and sidewalks of Overton Square.
But what a strange snowstorm. Anyone who glanced up could see a bright blue sky overhead, and — even more remarkable — just two blocks away in either direction, Madison Avenue had no snow at all.
It didn't require a weatherman to explain the snow storm that fell on Overton Square that December afternoon in 1976. The blizzard was fake — snow blown by powerful machines mounted on the roofs of buildings. It was a highlight of the Charles Dickens Christmas that year, just one of many unique events that helped make Overton Square the city's premier entertainment district. That was more than 30 years ago, and the intersection of Madison and Cooper has seen many changes since then, some good, some bad. Here's a look back at the early days, when it was hip to be Square."
Choose901: Loeb Sets Sights on Broad Avenue
"Today Loeb Properties announced in a press release their plans to revitalize the old Sears Factory Outlet warehouse space at 2542 Broad Avenue and turn it into a mixed-use development totaling 44,500 square feet. The now vacant warehouse, originally purchased by Loeb in 1995, is across the street from the now vibrant, south side of Broad Avenue which is 100% occupied. Both sides of Broad constitute the Broad Avenue Arts District.
Initial renderings of the repurposing show the warehouse “hollowed out” in the middle for parking on what is now a warehouse floor. Surrounding the parking area will be retail, entertainment, restaurant and even office space for tenants with space needs from 1,700 square feet to 30,000 square feet."
Tenant Profile: Germantown Trainers Studio
"Susan Ritter had been a Marine and a competitive athlete. Mike Farah had been a successful corporate executive who almost worked himself into an early grave, lost 50 pounds, retired, and began competing in body building competitions.
Along the way, Ritter and Farah worked as trainers at area fitness centers, and started talking about having their own business.
Recently, Farah, 61, and Ritter, 50, opened Trainers Studio in a 1,200 square-foot space in Farmington Centre in Germantown. The complex includes a fitness center and yoga studio, plus a chiropractor, but they don’t see any of them as threats. If anything, they are complementary business models."
Memphis Business Journal: Dixie Pickers Moves to East Memphis
"Local retailer, Dixie Pickers, signed a lease with Loeb Properties to open a store in East Memphis.
Located at 964 June Road near the intersection of Poplar and Yates, the 8,400-square-foot building previously housed Tommy Bronson's Sporting Goods. The expansion will mark the second Dixie Pickers location."
Memphis Daily News: Overton Square Celebrates 45 Years
"Overton Square is preparing to throw a party 45 years in the making, the commemoration of a milestone for one of the city’s premier restaurant and entertainment districts that’s once again hopping with activity.
A 45th anniversary party for the square is in the works, planned for May 21 in honor of the opening of TGI Friday’s on May 21, 1970. And the square’s official Facebook page lists a few ways the public can participate in the celebration.
Among the things being sought are contact details for bands that played the square in its heyday and that could be approached about performing at the party the square is billing as a “reunion.”
The public also is being asked for any historic photos of the square and of celebratory moments enjoyed there that could be used in display and event marketing."
High Ground News: Loeb Ups Ante in University District
"Memphians may not have to graduate from Newby's after all. Venerable Memphis developer Loeb Properties Inc.has expanded its retail portfolio with the purchase of the recently shuttered Newby’s bar and music venue on the Highland Strip.
Loeb, operating as Highland University District LLC, paid $450,000 for the two adjacent properties at 535 and 539 S. Highland St. Built in 1927, the properties total a combined 10,200 square feet, according to Shelby County Assessor of Property data. Paragon Bank foreclosed on the buildings in July 2014.
Loeb Properties president Bob Loeb said a record amount of public and private investment in the University of Memphis district prompted his company's interest in Newby's."
Memphian of the Year: Bob Loeb
Bob Loeb has been honored with the Memphis Magazine 2014 Memphian of the Year award:
"In the heady 1970's days, T.G.I. Friday’s was the heart of the district; revelers often stood three deep at the bar, ramping up their rowdiness for the weekly wet T-shirt contest. Other eateries and clubs — Silky Sullivan’s, Bombay Bicycle Club, Lafayette’s Music Room — also packed in the crowds, while retailers sold candles and body oils, antiques and art, trendy gifts and funky furniture. But the real attraction was the atmosphere itself, fueled by liquor, live music, and the hormonal exuberance of 20-somethings ready to party.
A teenager then, Bob Loeb says today, “Frankly I was intimidated by Overton Square. That was the big boys’ playground. I didn’t feel I belonged there.” Then the 59-year-old with his chiseled good looks declares with an easy laugh, “But I have quite a number of friends who report they went there regularly!”
As years passed, Loeb joined the throngs who filled the streets at night, and, like many Memphians of at least two generations, he has fond memories of such places as Le Chardonnay, Palm Court, Bayou Bar & Grill, and other establishments. Several closed long ago while others, despite the whims of taste and time, have endured four decades. “Some memories I can share,” smiles Loeb, “some I can’t. But like so many folks, I have a sentimental attachment to the Square. People of such a wide age range want to see it successful.”
Clearly they are seeing that now. Though Overton Square’s popularity faded in the 1980s and by the twenty-first century showed dimming signs of life, the now-bustling district boasts growing occupancy of properties along Madison and its environs. Patrons, some who were at the Square in its heyday and others who weren’t born then, relish the revival of a Memphis institution."
Memphis Daily News: Loeb Buys East Memphis Office Complex
"Loeb Properties has acquired an office complex in the heart of East Memphis, the company’s first major acquisition since it bought Overton Square in July 2012.
Memphis-based Loeb Properties purchased Executive Square, a 40-suite professional office complex at Poplar Avenue and Yates Road in East Memphis, from F. William Hackmeyer for $3.85 million.
“Executive Square has all the right attributes, primarily its visibility and location on Poplar Avenue, two blocks from I-240,” said Lou Loeb, executive vice president of asset management for Loeb Properties. “The potential of this property is enormous.”
The four-building, 51,146-square-foot complex was built in 1973 and is currently 70 percent leased. Loeb officials said Executive Square is a good destination for small businesses needing 500 square feet to 2,000 square feet and looking to locate in East Memphis, the city’s premier office market."
Commercial Appeal: Construction Starting on Innovative Stage
"Construction could start next month on Broad Avenue Arts District’s pioneering project to turn a loading dock into shared space, used alternately for warehouse operations by weekday and an outdoor performance stage by night or weekends.
The Water Tower Depot should take about six weeks to build, finishing just in time for the eight-week “Dance on Broad” festival of performances, dance lessons and live music starting May 10. The old Broad Avenue commercial district between Midtown and East Memphis has been resurgent for about five years. New businesses continue to move in and renovate under-used or vacant buildings."
Memphis Daily News: Mary Carter Cake Decorating Center to Grow
"A venerable Memphis cake decorating and supply store is moving to a new location on Summer Avenue.
Mary Carter Decorating Center signed a 4,800-square-foot lease in Cloverleaf Shopping Center at 733 N. White Station Road.
The father-and-son team of Jim and Chris Faherty have operated the family business out of their current, 2,500-square-foot location at 3205 Summer Ave. for 55 years."