Just saw this article about the repurposing of the old Paulus Music Company building I remember my brief visits to the music store but my more musically inclined family members LOVED hanging out there back in the day.
https://www.news4jax.com/news/local/2025/07/25/revamped-historic-building-to-be-unveiled-in-downtown-jacksonville/
The renovations look great and its a touching nod to the history of this building. None of my Jax friends knew anything about this project but I'm hoping someone can check it out and give more insight.
I'm surprised a re-adapted reuse story like this isn't getting more publicity on a site like this (maybe stories about the U2c/NAVI have effectively "flooded the zone" :))
When I was in HS band, I remember going to Paulus (at least I think it was Paulus) looking for sheet music for the required ensemble exercise (groups of 3-5 band members trying to play music written for small groups).
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on July 26, 2025, 10:03:58 AM
Just saw this article about the repurposing of the old Paulus Music Company building I remember my brief visits to the music store but my more musically inclined family members LOVED hanging out there back in the day.
https://www.news4jax.com/news/local/2025/07/25/revamped-historic-building-to-be-unveiled-in-downtown-jacksonville/
The renovations look great and its a touching nod to the history of this building. None of my Jax friends knew anything about this project but I'm hoping someone can check it out and give more insight.
I'm surprised a re-adapted reuse story like this isn't getting more publicity on a site like this (maybe stories about the U2c/NAVI have effectively "flooded the zone" :))
I was able to check it out last night. I didn't hear about it until a friend told me and I live 2 blocks away. They definitely weren't expecting the amount of people that showed up as it was uncomfortably packed and the AC was not keeping up. As such we were there for about 15 minutes.
The concept is very unique and cool. You walk into the Konbini Labo section which is supposed to be a Japanese convenience store. Throughout the building, they had different sections including one dedicated to Paulus Music Shop, a small art gallery, silent disco, and upstairs they were selling vintage clothes. I spoke with someone there who said they were surprised by the turnout and are working on official hours and more offerings. I'll definitely check it out again in the future when it is more organized
Not clear, who is behind the renovation and concept? The Paulus grandson or others? Did they ever ask for City incentives? This is the type of place that should get them over the multi-million dollar deep pocketed mega-developer deals. We need more little guys to make Downtown a happening place.
^Its a Placemaking Jax project. I don't believe it is a long term use, which is why things like city incentives were not included. Its more like a retail pop or short term activation of a vacant space. We could do good in downtown by continuing to find creative ways to activate existing spaces with some life and activity.