Visions For Vacancies: What Should Move To 43 Church St.?

Let's call this a modern spin on community planning—Patch's version of a charette, a digital drawing board where all ideas are on the table.

In an occasional column, we'll present a new vacant building and ask you to tell us what you think would be the best use. Forget what zone it's in, ignore setback regulations, dump lot coverage rules, and all the other zoning jargon that puts people most to sleep. If you had your way, what would you like to see there? What would be the best use for the community?

We launched this new occasional feature last week by focusing on the now vacant space at 622 Valley Road in Upper Montclair, the former home of Five Guys Burgers and Fries.

This week, we're asking what you think should move into the space at 43 Church St., where Montclair Beadworks once stood. The store closed at the end of January after eight years at that location.

Owner Mary Ann Cucci tried to sell the popular bead shop—but couldn't find a buyer.

And so now the space is vacant. Already Church Street is home to some of the town's best businesses including and

One rumor is that the flower shop at 41 Church St., , could expand into the Montclair Beadworks' space. Who knows? So, in the end, what would you like to see go in there? Another restaurant? A clothing store? Something else?

Let us know in the comments section below! Know of a vacant space/building we should highlight? Email Shelley@patch.com.