Get your panties out of a bunch and visit the Underwear Factory

It might sound weird at first when your friend asks you to meet them at the Poughkeepsie Underwear Factory for a cup of coffee but when you go you will not regret it.

The Poughkeepsie Underwear Factory was built in 1874 and served as an underwear factory for many years until it shut down.

For years the building stood vacant but when Hudson River Housing took over and revamped the place. The building is 3 floors and every floor serves a different purpose. On the first floor you will find Poughkeepsie Open Kitchen which is a shared commercial kitchen for kitchen members. On this same floor you will find North River Roasters Coffee House and Community Hub where locals can come grab a cup of coffee and there is also a cafe that serves healthy, affordable meals. On the second floor you can find the Poughkepesie Underwear Factory art studios where there are studio spaces are available for artists and where art classes are open to the public. On the last floor is the Art Affect which is a collaborative art studio where youth art programs are held.

This place created a new place for locals to go and see art galleries while drinking a cup of coffee and getting a bite to eat. Besides being a good spot for a cappucino, this facility makes it possible for local artists to showcase their work. With thriving local talent it is necessary that artists have an outlet to show the community their hard work.

“I look for places that are unique,” said Haleigh Levethan, Marist College student. “They give creative minds an outlet to express themselves.” With the renovation countless artists have been able to display their work there. Locals have also been exposed to talent that they never would have appreciated before.

The revamping of this building was a win win for everyone. Hudson River housing created a facility for the public to enjoy while giving back to the community.