Opening The Arcane Foundry wasn’t a random choice or a spur-of-the-moment decision. I spent months thinking about what I wanted this place to be: a mixed-use creative workshop, a maker space, a retail boutique, a gaming lounge, and honestly, a second home. When I found 723 S Richardson Ave., something clicked. It wasn’t perfect—but it was perfect for me, the business, and the long-term vision I have for this place.
Below are the real reasons why I chose this location and why I believe it’s the right foundation for The Arcane Foundry to grow.
1. Home Based Business Laws Make This Entire Concept Possible
One of the biggest reasons I was able to launch The Arcane Foundry at this location is because it fits perfectly within Ohio’s home-based business guidelines. Most of what I do—candles, soaps, 3D printing, model painting, knife making, axe throwing coaching, and private workshops—already falls into the “by appointment only” category. Since the majority of my sales come from the website through local pickup, delivery, or scheduled events, I’m operating well within the legal framework.
This gives me a ton of flexibility. I don’t need a full retail zoning classification to run creative workshops or produce handmade goods. I just need a safe, controlled environment, and I have that here. Being able to legally and comfortably operate under cottage business rules gives me room to scale slowly, keep overhead low, and still serve customers without having to lease expensive commercial space before I’m ready. It’s one of the biggest reasons 723 was the right choice.
2. The Parking Situation Is Better Than Most Commercial Storefronts
Honestly, parking is a nightmare for small businesses—except here. That’s one of the things that immediately sold me on this property. Since it’s a corner lot, the entire side of the street along the fence line becomes natural, abundant parking. Customers don’t have to fight for space; they can just pull up, park, and walk straight in.
In addition to the street parking, there’s a separate driveway by the alley that fits 2–4 cars comfortably. The side lot can support another 8–10 vehicles without blocking anything. The front street offers space as well. Altogether, this is more parking than a lot of commercial units even dream of, especially without needing to share with neighboring tenants. For special events, paint nights, or gaming sessions, the parking alone removes so many headaches.
3. A Spacious Backyard Perfect for Events and Outdoor Creative Activities
The backyard is one of the biggest hidden gems of this property. It’s huge, private, and full of potential. I can turn it into an outdoor event space for summer movie nights, fantasy-themed gatherings, or even autumn parties. With the right safety setups, I can also add a small blacksmithing forge or a caged axe and knife throwing lane for private bookings—still technically home-based business law compliant as long as everything is appointment-based.
The backyard essentially gives The Arcane Foundry an outdoor arena for creativity. It’s rare to have this kind of flexibility in a city neighborhood. This space will eventually become a major part of the character of the business, a place where people can gather, create, and enjoy unique experiences they won’t find anywhere else in Columbus.
4. The Neighborhood Is Improving — And I Want to Add Value to That Momentum
South Central Hilltop might not be the first place people think of when launching a creative studio, but the area is changing. There’s an active neighborhood watch, families walking their kids to school, and even an annual trick-or-treat station just down the road. Locals know each other, and there’s a genuine sense of community here that I didn’t feel in other parts of Columbus.
I see The Arcane Foundry as part of the neighborhood’s next chapter. It’s something unique, creative, and positive that brings foot traffic, events, and good energy into the area. Instead of avoiding up-and-coming neighborhoods, I’d rather be part of their growth.
5. Future Local Employment Opportunities for the Community
Right now, I’m doing everything myself—production, events, candles, inventory, website, admin, you name it. But long-term, I want to employ local people. Since the shop is within walking distance for many residents, this could genuinely help the community.
My goal is to grow The Arcane Foundry to the point where I can bring on:
- 2 full-time retail staff
- 1–3 production assistants
- 1–2 event hosts or gaming ambassadors
That may take time, but the foundation is here. A small business that hires locally is one of the best things you can add to an emerging neighborhood.
6. Perfect Setup for Food Trucks and Seasonal Community Events
One of the coolest advantages of having a corner lot with a large side area is the ability to bring in food trucks. Whether it’s for Halloween events, Christmas markets, game nights, or creative workshops, having a food truck in the lot elevates the entire experience. It gives people a reason to stop by—not just for candles or 3D prints, but for the atmosphere and community vibe.
I’ve already noticed high foot traffic from nearby schools and local families. This makes the idea even stronger. If I can make this place a mini-destination with rotating food trucks and vendors, it becomes more than a store. It becomes part of the neighborhood culture.
7. Owning Is Better Than Renting — Especially for a Creative Startup
Commercial rent is insane right now. Most retail spaces would cost me three times my current mortgage, and that’s not counting utilities or CAM fees. There is absolutely no way a startup like mine—especially a niche fantasy-themed makers’ studio—could profit while paying commercial rent from day one.
By buying this property and putting down a significant down payment, I keep my monthly expenses low enough that I can grow at a natural, sustainable pace. I’m not forced to chase revenue to pay a landlord. I can take the time to develop a brand, build the community, set up events, and refine the business model. Ownership gives me creative and financial freedom.
8. Helping the Neighborhood’s Gentrification by Beautifying the Property
Let’s be real: this house used to be rough. Old Google Maps images show a neglected, rundown structure on the verge of collapse. A flipper bought it, fixed it up, and made it livable—but I’m taking it further. By adding a gothic picket fence, shrubs, spruce trees, and removing invasive overgrowth, I’m investing heavily in curb appeal and long-term improvement.
The Arcane Foundry doesn’t just sit in the neighborhood—it enhances it. Every improvement I make raises the feeling of safety, pride, and transformation on the block.
9. It’s Technically My Second Home — And That’s a Huge Advantage
Another reason I chose this house is because I can stay here overnight if needed. This turns the business into a hybrid work/live setup, even though I still own my main home in Powell. Not having to drive back 20 miles when I’m tired after events or long production nights is a huge quality-of-life improvement.
It also means I can get work done earlier, stay later, and finish projects at my own pace without commuting stress. That flexibility is priceless for a growing business.
10. Owning a Store Has Been a Lifelong Dream — And This Makes It Real
I’ve always wanted a storefront—somewhere that blends creativity, craftsmanship, and community. I still work a 9–5 job doing web development and SEO, but The Arcane Foundry lets me pursue my passions on my terms. I can run events, paint models, 3D print armies, make candles, sharpen knives, teach axe throwing, and host gaming nights whenever I want.
I’m not rushing, and I’m not forced to grow faster than I can afford. Building this place slowly, authentically, and creatively is part of the dream. 723 S Richardson Ave. gave me the opportunity to actually do it.