Pilot project pitched for permanent Artisan Market

By Casandra Turnbull

A Brantford-based Modular Home company, specializing in affordable and environmentally conscious housing solutions, has pitched a new Artisan Market idea to Brant County Council

Aura Poddar, representing Habitat28 LTD, presented the idea of an Artisan Market that would give artisans a permanent home for festivals and special events in the County of Brant. Poddar, who is Director of Sales for Habitat28, was a delegate before council on November 26th . The local company has already approached and discussed the concept with Zach Gable from the County’s Economic Development department, and they say the idea was well received and is a good fit with the county’s economic landscape

The year-round market would adapt to each season, transforming from a farmer’s market in the spring and summer to a Christmas market in the winter with events like Easter fairs adding to its appeal, said Poddar. By investing in modular, sustainable infrastructure, Brant County can establish a long-term venue that meets the community’s needs throughout the year, she added.

The location for this permanent market isn’t set yet, but Poddar told councillors the idea is to locate close to Paris’ downtown core to attract more business to and from the prime shopping area. One suggested location brought up was Lion’s Park, but nothing has been approved at this time. The discussion is very preliminary

Paris Councillor John Bell asked why the business is focussing on commercial when there’s a greater need for affordable housing in the County. Poddar explained that there are residential project discussions in the works, but the company felt the commercial route was a good fit now because of the upcoming Big Dig downtown where many retail businesses will feel the financial pinch and loss of revenue. This will give entrepreneurs another avenue to continue to sell their merchandise, said Poddar.

Habitat 28 would like to sell their 160 square foot modular buildings to the county for a discounted price of $35,000 each; they retail for $49,999 Poddar notes this Artisan Market concept is becoming popular worldwide including within Canada. The company has approached the County of Brant first, to market locally since they are a locally based business. It’s also a good fit because Brant County is home to a lot of special events, a variety of markets and there’s a strong artisan presence.

“We are hoping to work with Brant County first and grow our community and advance our local entrepreneurs.”

Habitat28 was initially founded to address the urgent need for affordable and environmentally conscious housing. The tiny homes are four seasons designed, Ontario Building Code compliant and all units are built in Canada. Habitat28 received the Canadian Business Review Board’s Best Businesses in Canada 2024 award.

Council received the information and referred it to County staff to investigate further.

The proposed Artisan Market will be composed of a number of 160 square foot modular buildings, pictured above, and can be custom designed inside to fit the need of the artist/entrepreneur