“We have coffee for your morning commute but we’re not a coffee shop. We have beer for your weekend hangouts but we’re not a brewery. We have running shoes, face oils, and products to keep you well. We have items to look at in a gallery but we’re not art. Call us a community space, an immersive experience, or a collective of really cool brands. We are Outpost. Pop in and say hello.”

Marcon converted a former sales centre at 3001 St. Johns St. for its George and Will condo and townhouse projects to Outpost, a pop-up community hub where people can meet for coffee, craft beer, learn about unique local products, listen to live music, get some work done or just hang out.

The space plays host to trivia nights, live music, dates, remote workers, run clubs, and even photos with Santa. It’s hosted goods from local producers like Tofino Towel Co. and Elderberry Floral, and the kind of interior aesthetic that makes for an Instagram influencer’s dream.

The Outpost in Port Moody is the company’s first stab at changing things up. The 2,200 sq. ft. space evokes the look and feel of a high-end cafe. Its centrepiece is a fully-equipped barista station and craft brewery bar featuring coffee, sandwiches and pastries created and sold by Vancouver’s Timbertrain Coffee Roasters and a selection of beers from Superflux that’s also crafted a special Good Company IPA collaboration with Port Moody’s five resident craft brewers just for the pop-up.

At the entrance, and along some of the warm wood walls, are curated displays of lifestyle products, like olive oils and balsamic vinegars from Port Moody’s own Olive the Best, towels and robes from the Tofino Towel Compay, wellness products from Tallu & Co, fine goods and flowers from Elderberry Floral, which is just down the street, as well as skincare items from The Wilds Skincare.

Local products and merchants on display

Our intention is to really promote local businesses. All of the products are local, or from British Columbia purveyors. And while visitors won’t be able to buy them directly on site, each display is accompanied by an information card and QR code that links directly to the merchant's website.

Along with several work stations that have electrical outlets and robust WiFi connections, there’s soft corner couches, chairs, padded benches and tables for gathering, as well as a selection of board games.

Live music and trivia contests

Out back, cloistered from the adjacent parking lot and passing traffic by tall shrubbery and planters, is a 1,200 sq. ft. patio that will feature live music every Thursday night as well as trivia contests. Other programming in the planning stages include visits from food trucks and a farmer’s market.

Local community groups and charitable organizations will also be able to access the space for their event.

It’s all about cultivating community, said Nic Paolella, Marcon’s vice-president of development, in a press release.
“We want to go beyond just developing buildings to developing vibrant and exciting foundations and futures for local businesses, residents and visitors alike.”