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Worcester Public Market/Kelley Square Lofts 13 time Lorusso transformed the old factory into an architec- turally beautiful complex and tried to keep intact as many of the original design elements as possible. "The front door, beams and floors are original," he said. With renovations completed, Lorusso was ready to open for business in 2008 when the market crashed. "I had four tenants ready to move in and two backed out," he said. Undaunted by this turn of events, he waited patiently until the financial situation turned around and investors showed renewed interest. As the economy became more stable and interest in the Canal District piqued, the face of the landscape began to change. New retail stores opened and attracted custom- ers. Diners filled the various restaurants popping up on a regular basis. Tables in restaurants and taverns were filled with couples enjoying an evening out. Mothers strolled through the neighborhood with their children during the day. The previously dubious reputation attached to the area was changing for the better. Boutiques, bread and books Crompton Place began its renaissance as renters filled the building. In September 2012, Amy Chase opened the Crompton Collective, an anchor store that occupies the entire lower level. Juried crafts from 99 dealers fill every nook in the space; shoppers can explore the aisles where a plethora of antique items, unique decorations, handcraft- ed clothing, artwork and unexpected surprises await. Chase had previously operated a mobile truck business, selling clothing in Worcester and in Boston, but wanted a permanent space. Crompton Place provided the perfect venue. "I love the feel of this building. I had looked at several others, but I was familiar with the building, having grown up in Worcester," she said. Recently, Chase launched Haberdash, an upscale bou- tique that features unique women's clothing, accessories and jewelry, situated on the first floor of Crompton Place. Chase also operates the White Room, a function room that hosts weddings, political events, fundraisers and bridal and baby showers from June through October. Free yoga classes are also held there. Several celebrities, including former president Bill Clinton, former governor Mitt Romney and Senator Elizabeth Warren, have been spotted at events in the White Room. A staunch advocate for the Canal District, Chase has recruited other businesses to join Crompton Place. One business that has become extremely popular is Birch Tree Bread Company. Avra A. Hoffman, co-owner, explained that Birch Tree landed in Crompton Place because the company partici- pated in the first Canal District Farmer's Market that Amy Chase started. "We felt the building had great energy and potential and decided to take a leap of faith and move into our large space with a big dream," she said. "Our Crompton Collective Haberdash White Room