Philadelphia Weekly

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Occupation: owner, Uzoamaka World Beat Emporium
Location: Center City
Style: retail/studio/office/living space

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For about 10 years you had your store on the 2100 block of Walnut Street. What made you decide to move?

I built a following from that location. It was a bit offbeat but I used the bus stop as a pulling factor and attracted people through the window display by presenting colorful clothing, jewelry, etc. Unfortunately, some issues arose around that location in 2000 including a very bad leak that destroyed many items. It happened all of a sudden and I had to look for a new location. I didn't really know what to do. Real estate prices had gone up and I didn't want to hike up prices for my customers in order to cover increases. It had been a challenge to make that original location work. I looked in West Philly, Old City and Fairmount for something new, but I had established myself as a Center City business. My vibe is smack in the middle of everything with all the hustle and bustle--very urban. So I didn't want to isolate my loyal customers. I thought this location on Sansom Street was the best option.

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Were you concerned with the transition from a street-level business to a somewhat hidden second-floor location?

One of my concerns was the state of the interior. I knew it was going to be a challenge to get it ready for operation. Before I began renting, it was used for storage and it needed a lot of work. I was also concerned with the amount of space and what I would do to fill it up--it's much larger than the original store. I really had to research some space solutions, getting ideas from books and magazines. The main issue was the second-floor location. Fortunately, I have the foot traffic working in my favor. I extend myself outside with music and signs. Those who get curious come in and I wow them with the presentation. I don't have the street-level exposure but I do have the space. I knew that I had to create a really lovely environment. A place where people could feel like they've stepped away for a moment from all the city activity. It's another world from the street.

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This location serves as much more than a retail store.

The upstairs (above the store), with its beautiful light, is a great place to stay if I'm working late. My son can go there and be away from the business--watch TV, do homework. There's so much potential because it's so versatile. My actual residence in North Philly is being renovated right now so it's wonderful to have an optional place to rest my head. There is a kitchen which is great for arranging flowers, entertaining and extra office space. It gives me room to work on items like bags, jewelry and clothing and conduct business with clients without interfering in the shop space. I redid the floors to help separate the different areas: wood floors for retail and tiles in the work area. The openness of everything helps to create a relaxed environment. It all begins with me. If I'm comfortable and relaxed then I can extend that to the customers.

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Is it a challenge to separate work from private time?

I like the integration that I have created. I love what I do so I can get very absorbed in my work. I do spend a lot of time here but when I'm here I'm creating, so it's satisfying.

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The space seems to represents many aspects your life.

Its an expansion of me: Uzo to the power of 2. It represents my creativity, which has entered into another phase here. I'm able to relax and present beautiful things to people. The essence of my business is to make people comfortable so they might enjoy the art that I provide.

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Uzoamaka World Beat Emporium is located at 1532 Sansom St, second fl., 215.832.0060.