Exploring Innovation and Creativity: A Group’s Guided Tour of Industry City, Brooklyn

A group of curious students recently ventured to Industry City in the Sunset Park neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, to dive into the intersection of sustainability, social justice, community connections, and a bit of food culture. 

This unique guided tour gave them an inside look at how old technologies are being repurposed to foster new innovations while contributing to local communities. The group opted for the Deluxe Tour—a four-hour experience that combined food tastings, artisan visits, and hands-on workshops in an inspiring, creative environment.

What is Industry City?

For those unfamiliar, Industry City is a sprawling, multi-use complex that stretches over 35 acres along the waterfront of Brooklyn. Originally built in the early 20th century, the terminal was designed to be a major hub for cargo and warehousing, with easy access to both rail and ship transport.

Today, the site has been transformed into a modern business and cultural center. It provides a home to a diverse mix of tech companies, creative studios, art galleries, food production spaces, and retail businesses. It’s a prime example of how New York City is adapting its industrial past to support innovation.

When touring Industry City, walking through the vast spaces, you can feel the blend of history and modernity. Old warehouses and industrial buildings have been repurposed, not just for tech and business, but for a thriving community where sustainability and creativity are at the forefront.

Key Highlights from the Tour:

• 5 Food Tastings – A delicious journey through local food culture
• 2 Artisan Maker Visits – Combining craftsmanship and sustainability
• Workshop with a Maker – Hands-on experience crafting textiles and friendship bracelets
• Shopping at Brooklyn Made – Exploring local artisans and their unique creations

A Day of Discovery

The day started off on a delicious foot, with flaky croissants baked in-house from Colson Patisserie, a Brooklyn-based French bakery. This spot has grown from a small shop to a successful wholesale operation while prioritizing employee well-being. They partner with Hot Bread Kitchen – a NYC-based organization empowering immigrant and low-income women through culinary training and job placement – to hire motivated graduates, offering flexibility, training, and growth opportunities. With a focus on work-life balance, Colson Patisserie supports employees by emphasizing inclusivity, clear communication, and mentorship. They aim to foster a positive work culture where employees are empowered to grow and succeed in their roles. 

The group then paid a visit to the Studio of William Storms, a sustainable textile designer and artist. William, who is known for blending craft with custom manufacturing, gave an in-depth talk about the sustainable aspects of his work.  William’s work straddles the world of art and industry, drawing from his background in bespoke textile design and a focus on Jacquard weaving. The students were captivated by his craftsmanship, particularly the way he uses vintage looms to create intricate, large-scale woven pieces. In addition to his studio work, William also runs Whirlwind Yarn, a boutique yarn factory and shop. Whirlwind Yarn focuses on custom yarns, offers specialized workshops, and features a rotating selection of specialty yarn on cones. 

The highlight of the visit was a hands-on workshop where students were able to craft their own large-scale friendship bracelets using some of the same materials William uses in his designs. Many students even took the opportunity to visit his studio during their free time to create even more bracelets or chat with William about his journey in blending traditional craft with modern business practices.

Exploring More of Industry City

After the textile workshop, the students were given some free time to explore. Some checked out the shops, others played foosball, and some explored Japan Village (A dynamic space celebrating Japan’s culture, food, and commerce). 

The group then visited Like a Local VIP Partner, Brooklyn Made, a vibrant space dedicated to showcasing and selling locally made products. “Brooklyn Made” captures the ever-evolving spirit of a borough shaped by diverse cultures over 300 years. The mission of the store is to spotlight talented designers, makers, and entrepreneurs—many from communities of color—whose unique products embody the heart and soul of Brooklyn.

Emphasizing craftsmanship and creativity, Brooklyn Made features a curated mix of products, from artisanal food and beverages to fashion, home goods, and artwork. It offers visitors an authentic taste of Brooklyn’s thriving artisan scene, while supporting local businesses and makers. During their visit, the students learned about the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce’s efforts to uplift small businesses in the area. While touring the space, the students were introduced to local vendors work and learned how their businesses are contributing to the growth and vibrancy of the community.

Throughout the tour, the students were treated to five delicious food tastings, including locally made chocolates at Li-Lac Chocolates, the oldest chocolate factory in NYC handcrafting artisanal chocolates for over 100 years. And of course it isn’t a NYC food tour without a slice of pizza, which the group enjoyed at Table 87, where they feature coal-fired pizza.

The group savored sliders and fries from Burger Joint, a popular spot known for its classic, no-frills burgers, offering a casual and laid-back atmosphere. They serve up delicious, juicy burgers, alongside fries and milkshakes. The burgers are thick, hearty, and satisfying. They’ve become a staple for locals, tourists, and anyone looking for an authentic yet simple burger experience in the city.

Conclusion: Industry City as a Model for the Future

Industry City is a fantastic example of how old industries are being reimagined to meet modern needs, blending sustainability, creativity, and community. On this tour, visitors of all ages can explore exciting themes like social justice, craftsmanship, and innovation. From making friendship bracelets and tasting delicious local food to learning how art and industry come together, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how collaboration is shaping the future.

Whether you’re looking to spark your team’s creativity or simply enjoy a fun and inspiring day out, this tour offers something for everyone. As one of the most customizable tours on the roster, we can’t wait to make it the perfect experience for you and your team. 

Book your tour today or contact us to craft a custom tour, and discover how the past is being transformed into a sustainable and exciting future!