Village Gate, Rochester

The Village Gate in Rochester is a lively cultural and commercial hub located in the heart of the Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA), one of the city’s most creative and energetic districts. Originally built as a factory for the Stecher-Truang Lithographic Company-once among the world’s largest printing operations-the building was reimagined in 1981 by developer Gary Stern. His vision turned the former industrial space into a festive marketplace that continues to evolve under the care of Stern Properties.

Today, Village Gate offers a rich mix of shops, eateries, salons, art studios, offices, and loft residences. Its ground level surrounds a welcoming courtyard filled with restaurants and specialty boutiques, while the upper floors host art installations, modern workspaces, and an airy atrium used for weddings and events. The space reflects a philosophy of creative reuse and mixed-use living, blending daily life with art and commerce in a single, walkable environment.

The complex also plays a key role in Rochester’s arts scene. Along with its neighbor, the Fabrics and Finding Building, Village Gate hosts open studio events every second Saturday, offering a glimpse into the work of local artists. Its location-just a few blocks from the Rochester Public Market and cultural institutions like the Memorial Art Gallery and Writers & Books-further cements its role as a gathering point for creativity and community. Even the nearby Legal Wall, where graffiti is welcomed, adds to the site’s unique spirit, turning everyday walls into canvases for expression.