From paper bag factory to creative hub, 315 Meserole becomes East Williamsburg's artist playground
The co-founders are drawing inspiration from Brooklyn’s rich street art scene and cultural diversity.
Once a former paper bag factory, 315 Meserole in Brooklyn has been transformed into a sprawling 100,000-square-foot creative hub where artists, makers, and tastemakers can leave their mark - without breaking the bank. From DJ Scratch lessons to a larger-than-life mini bodega installation, the space already hosts an indoor skatepark, perfume lab, art studios, a rooftop bar, and much more in the works.
“We have a constant supply of creative folks here in New York and a shrinking number of locations where they can work,” says Brian Lockner, co-founder and partner of D | L Development. “We're hopeful to give sort of long-term homes to those folks where they don't have to constantly be looking over their shoulder for the next development site.”
The co-founders are drawing inspiration from Brooklyn’s rich street art scene and cultural diversity. Graffiti walls and big murals outside the building reflect that ethos, creating a visually vibrant environment that feels alive with possibility. “Whether it be people making stuff or people doing creative things or unique things that you can learn here, we want to create that community,” says Eric Deutsch, co-founder and partner at D | L Development. “You need to create that.”
One of the standout tenants, Marv Stefchonski of Scratch DJ Academy, has turned part of the space into a hands-on music lab, training the next generation through youth programs while certifying adults ready to master the craft. “It's not a lot of places for young people to go and be able to spend time, do something positive, learn a craft and scratch. It's a special place. So I'm happy to have us now in Brooklyn,” Stefchonski says.
Even with nearly 70% of 315 Meserole already leased, the doors remain open to tastemakers and artists looking to build, collaborate, and create. “Our goal has been and continues to be to provide a quality place for New York City creatives, primarily in the boroughs, to have a good, safe place to work at an affordable price in a supportive community,” Lockner adds.
Developers tell News 12 that 315 Meserole isn’t just a building, it’s a new ecosystem for creativity, one that celebrates Brooklyn’s artistic spirit while offering a sustainable space for the city’s next generation of makers.
