Get to Know: Usagi NY
“We don’t chase the trends.”
Usagi NY may be a hybrid space that includes a gallery, café, and library, but the books came first. Founded 17 years ago as a bookstore, it moved to its current DUMBO location 7 years ago. It was only after the rent rose to an unsustainable point that the store diversified its stock.
For all that the space accomplishes, the atmosphere remains cohesive and calming. There is a definite Japanese bent to everything from the store’s layout, which was designed by famous Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto, to the café’s menu, to the book selection.
Their book collection is strictly curated by Toshiki Okazaki and focuses exclusively on art-related topics, including design, architecture, urban art, photography, typography, art history, and more. According to PR Director Olga Fedorova, “we don’t chase the trends.” Their books culminate in “a timeless collection that contribute to their general body of work.” And, because of the heavy Japanese influence, “some books probably aren’t available anywhere else in the United States,” Olga says. Most of their books are for sale, but a few rare and out-of-print books are for display only.
Usagi NY is a place of inspiration to the Brooklyn arts community, including architecture companies and photographers. They host a wide variety of events, including dance installations, exhibit openings, book launches, lectures, workshops, conversation series, and more.
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Usagi NY 163 Plymouth Street, Brooklyn, NY Open 12PM- 6 PM Tue-Sat
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Feature/pictures by Zoe Maffitt.
