The Great Etsy Office Move of 2009

sarah_avatar_copy.jpgHi! I’m Etsy’s third Sarah (well, technically, only the second with an “h”), and I am Etsy’s new Office Manager. I started in June, and it has been an exciting whirlwind, absorbing as much as I can about Etsy culture and community while also trying to improve the day-to-day workings of Etsy’s offices. I feel very lucky to be part of this family of hardworking and creative people who have welcomed me with open arms!

One of the most exciting projects I’ve been helping with is the Etsy office move. After three memorable years in our wonderfully quirky — though sometimes dysfunctional — office building, Etsy headquarters is moving to new digs on August 22. We will say good-bye to our Brooklyn/Bermuda Triangle location between Fort Greene, DUMBO, and Downtown Brooklyn. We look forward to inviting visitors to meetings without fear of them getting completely lost (which was a frequent occurrence at 325 Gold!).

The new office will be in the DUMBO neighborhood of Brooklyn (which stands for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass” — a sensible acronym, but it still makes me laugh every time I say it). DUMBO is known as an arts-focused neighborhood filled with galleries, restaurants, new media and non-profit organizations. Many of the buildings were once factories or warehouses, but they now are home to a growing community of studios and vibrant web companies. With friendly residents and many independent businesses, DUMBO is an oasis in the midst of the big city. Commuters drinking their morning coffee will be able to spot our bright Etsy orange walls from the Manhattan Bridge.

The new office is designed for greater efficiency, as we will no longer be trying to coordinate ourselves on three separate floors of a building with a temperamental elevator. The new space is all on one floor, with most folks sitting out in an open floor plan. The internet connection will be stable, and we won’t be in the middle of a construction site — we’ve had three 40 floor buildings shoot up just next door to us! In short, it will be a vastly improved work environment.

Soon Etsy Labs will be reopening for Monday Craft Nights and other Virtual Labs events. These gatherings, both in Brooklyn and online via our multi-user chat room, are just one way for us to stay connected to you, and we’re looking forward to hosting these in our new office. Stay tuned for posts from julieincharge and daniellexo regarding those events. You can also sign up for the Etsy Labs mailing list. For now, we are co-hosting DIY Thursdays at the Museum of Arts and Design. Please join us for these events — even if you’re not in New York, you can participate online.

We are working to make sure that the office reflects our handmade and vintage spirit. We want to make sure we share it with all of you, even from afar, so after we move in, I’ll post stories about the handmade and vintage elements in the office. Our desks, conference tables, kitchen flooring and cabinetry are among the items made and installed by Etsy sellers, and I can’t wait to show them in use in our busy office.  

Ok, back to packing!

  • SeaPinks

    SeaPinks says:

    How exciting, and what a great view!

    2 years ago

  • PoshMommaStore

    PoshMommaStore says:

    Sounds fun! Enjoy the move!

    2 years ago

  • jamieribisi

    jamieribisi says:

    If you need any original art to decorate your walls, you know where to find me ;)

    2 years ago

  • evihan

    evihan says:

    woww great location.....I am amazed

    2 years ago

  • adoreneko

    adoreneko says:

    OoOo, what a beautiful view and orange is a fun color!

    2 years ago

  • laralewis

    laralewis says:

    exciting! who's driving the uhaul? ;)

    2 years ago

  • aBreathofFrenchair

    aBreathofFrenchair says:

    Lots of work, but exciting too!

    2 years ago

  • Mimiandlola

    Mimiandlola says:

    Have fun!

    2 years ago

  • taylorseclectic

    taylorseclectic says:

    Sounds like a much needed move! And it sounds like a really cool new location!

    2 years ago

  • recycledwares

    recycledwares says:

    Sounds wonderful!! Can't wait to see the updates on the new office space. Lucky ducks.

    2 years ago

  • BlueTerracotta

    BlueTerracotta says:

    What good news, I hope you are all happy in your new location!

    2 years ago

  • AlexMetalArts

    AlexMetalArts says:

    Good luck on the move. Don't lose the coffee supplies in the shuffle;)

    2 years ago

  • girltuesdayjewelry

    girltuesdayjewelry says:

    I'm going to come visit your new digs when the move is complete!

    2 years ago

  • buttercupbloom

    buttercupbloom says:

    Looking forward to photos of the new offices! Sounds excellent!

    2 years ago

  • slinkymalinkicat

    slinkymalinkicat says:

    Good luck with the move!

    2 years ago

  • BlueShoeStudio

    BlueShoeStudio says:

    Excellent! Good luck in your new space Etsy Folks!! We love Etsy. :)

    2 years ago

  • Morado

    Morado says:

    Moving! Change is always good and the only thing constant is change! enjoy it :o) http://twitter.com/MoradoShop http://www.facebook.com/pages/Morado/76145617513

    2 years ago

  • BlackLotusDesign

    BlackLotusDesign says:

    Sounds great! I cant wait for the photos!

    2 years ago

  • MPsen

    MPsen says:

    My first studio was at 68 Jay, WAY back in the day [before the condo invasion] Lovely neighborhood. I'm sure you'll enjoy it. Good luck with the move. Marketa

    2 years ago

  • FrillyButts

    FrillyButts says:

    Nice to meet you Sarah! I wish I lived in the DUMBO neighborhood. That sounds amazing!

    2 years ago

  • diffractionfiber

    diffractionfiber says:

    How exciting! Well, just let me know if you need any pillows ;)

    2 years ago

  • chinadoodle

    chinadoodle says:

    I hate moving!

    2 years ago

  • VKnO

    VKnO says:

    Sounds wonderful! I'm looking forward to see the photos! Good luck with the move ;)

    2 years ago

  • enhabiten

    enhabiten says:

    How awesome that you hired etsy sellers to furnish and decorate the offices. I hope to come visit someday soon!! Congratulations.

    2 years ago

  • thebestvintage

    thebestvintage says:

    Growth is good!

    2 years ago

  • BranchandBirdie

    BranchandBirdie says:

    How exciting! I love Dumbo, and it's fantasic waterside playground/park! Have you been to Noodle Pudding or Five Front? Both oh so delicious!!

    2 years ago

  • 4TheSparrowsNest

    4TheSparrowsNest says:

    Best of luck moving; it really seems like you all will be relocating to prime real estate in a wonderfully artsy community. Congrats Etsy!

    2 years ago

  • MagnetGames

    MagnetGames says:

    hi Sarah!

    2 years ago

  • FlanneryCrane

    FlanneryCrane says:

    fantastic view. have fun!

    2 years ago

  • embellishedlife

    embellishedlife says:

    Hubby came home the other day and said "I saw a big sheet with "Etsy" on it in a window in downtown brooklyn!" LOL!

    2 years ago

  • 1canoe2

    1canoe2 says:

    Wonderful! I was one that got lost going to the 325 Gold office :) I'll be in NYC on August 29th--will the new offices/labs be open for visitors then?

    2 years ago

  • staceyrebecca

    staceyrebecca says:

    Awwww Goodbye 325 Gold! I'll MISS YOU! (because, you know, I visited so often...) I still will miss the scary elevator. It's an adventure every time you step inside.

    2 years ago

  • strawberryluna

    strawberryluna says:

    Wow, how exciting and congratulations on the move! I've had two separate experiences hunting for the 325 Gold Street location, and while a fun adventure (and happily successful both times) I can only imagine that it will be super cool to have an easier to find and easier to manage space. Congratulations!

    2 years ago

  • ShySiren

    ShySiren says:

    I used to have a studio office on that very street where the photo is taken -- Washington Street, just a block up from where the photographer was standing. Every day walking to work was a total joy, reminding my of what a gorgeous City New York is! Missing it... but will be back this weekend for a visit!

    2 years ago

  • 1022SeaShellAve

    1022SeaShellAve says:

    Can't wait to "see" and hear more!

    2 years ago

  • staceyrebecca

    staceyrebecca says:

    oh! I just thought of something...you'll be closer to Maggiano's!

    2 years ago

  • itsastitch

    itsastitch says:

    Man, Etsy. We're moving on the same week. Cheers to new digs!

    2 years ago

  • onecreativegirl

    onecreativegirl says:

    exciting! congrats on the new space.

    2 years ago

  • moonscreations

    moonscreations says:

    Yay moving! ugh moving. I hope we'll get to see some wonderful photos of the new digs!

    2 years ago

  • zwzzy

    zwzzy says:

    Are you going to see elephants fly in DUMBO? ;D

    2 years ago

  • ShopClementine

    ShopClementine says:

    Heh, I don't think I ever got to use the elevator at 325 Gold--it was out of order whenever I visited. Congrats on a great new location!!

    2 years ago

  • notebooksetc

    notebooksetc says:

    Counting on pictures (interior and exterior) when you have them!

    2 years ago

  • SimpleJoysPaperie

    SimpleJoysPaperie says:

    Hi Sarah ~ nice to meet you! The move sounds like it's a good thing all around. Maybe you should do a house-warming (or office-warming) party post with virtual guests bringing virtual house-warming gifts?

    2 years ago

  • niswanderceramics

    niswanderceramics says:

    Sounds like a great new location, I grew up in Jersey with nice views of the city, still get homesick when I see photos of the area. Enjoy your new place.

    2 years ago

  • whichgoose

    whichgoose says:

    The best part of moving = re-decorating!! :)

    2 years ago

  • klacustomcreations

    klacustomcreations says:

    how cool, new digs is always fun!

    2 years ago

  • AmericanGirl51

    AmericanGirl51 says:

    Have a great Move. Well come to the Etsy Staff, Hope to see great new things from you, Renee

    2 years ago

  • peaseblossomstudio

    peaseblossomstudio says:

    Looking forward to seeing pics of the new place!

    2 years ago

  • pommesfrites

    pommesfrites says:

    good luck with the move! wish I could be there to see the new space.

    2 years ago

  • study

    study says:

    good luck on the move! sounds like a great new and inspiring place to work!

    2 years ago

  • workingforpeanuts

    workingforpeanuts says:

    Good luck with your move! The new space sounds marvelous!

    2 years ago

  • BlackStar

    BlackStar says:

    Welcome to Etsy Sarah. I can't wait to see pictures of the new office. I love old buildings.

    2 years ago

  • beachhouseblues

    beachhouseblues says:

    I love that you used Etsy shops for your offices!!

    2 years ago

  • prendasbyenid

    prendasbyenid says:

    Nice location! I hope someday I can visit the new office.

    2 years ago

  • fernfiddlehead

    fernfiddlehead says:

    I remember looking at an apartment in what is now known as DUMBO back in '85. Scary as hell. Didn't take the apartment. Good luck with the move and I'm glad it won't be so easy for people to get lost looking for your offices now!

    2 years ago

  • RobotsAreAwesome

    RobotsAreAwesome says:

    Etsy your welcome to open an office in my city and state! I can run a mean office, type, use the internets and everything ;)

    2 years ago

  • Mymothersgarden

    Mymothersgarden says:

    Sounds like the new location is great! Happy office warming!

    2 years ago

  • MeghanT

    MeghanT says:

    Hey Sarah, The new building sounds great! Good luck with the move and enjoy your new space. Can't wait for the Monday night craft nights to resume! Will you be posting pics of the new building inside? It would be cool to see some visuals once everything is unpacked!

    2 years ago

  • SandraLeighMiller

    SandraLeighMiller says:

    * excitement * best of luck!!

    2 years ago

  • junkyjunk

    junkyjunk says:

    Sounds exciting! Thanks for including my typewriter!

    2 years ago

  • baconsquarefarm

    baconsquarefarm says:

    Nice to meet ya sarah and the new place DUMBO sounds fabulous, maybe they will give us peeps at this new place somehow via webcam, welcome again to the big family.

    2 years ago

  • moop

    moop says:

    Good luck with the move! ...it's a ton of work but will be well worth the effort! (we are well versed in major relocations...we just moved Moop studios from Massachusetts to Pittsburgh...so, we're sending our digital energies your way!!)

    2 years ago

  • pamwares

    pamwares says:

    we need pictures when you done with the move!

    2 years ago

  • Tessyla

    Tessyla says:

    Good luck with it all and have fun! Very nice to meet you :)

    2 years ago

  • VixVintage

    VixVintage says:

    Good luck with the move, I hope it all goes smoothly.

    2 years ago

  • virginiakraljevic

    virginiakraljevic says:

    I love DUMBO! super news.

    2 years ago

  • Tumus

    Tumus says:

    Crazy Mazy! Dysfunctional elevators are wretched aren't they lol. I remember moving offices once and it was insane so bring lots of beer and pizza! and probably an ice pak or 4...

    2 years ago

  • embellishedlife

    embellishedlife says:

    Oh, and JUNIOR'S around the corner!

    2 years ago

  • SimpleTraditions

    SimpleTraditions says:

    Can't wait to see what it looks like!

    2 years ago

  • latelierdesbijoux

    latelierdesbijoux says:

    Congratulations on the move! Sounds like the new offices will be great.

    2 years ago

  • moonovermaize

    moonovermaize says:

    How exciting!

    2 years ago

  • stephaniesullivanart

    stephaniesullivanart says:

    Love the location you picked! Can't wait to see the follow up postings...

    2 years ago

  • EyeForBeauty

    EyeForBeauty says:

    have fun moving! i'm sure it will be a challenge, but well worth it :) can't wait for pictures!

    2 years ago

  • topsyturvydesign

    topsyturvydesign says:

    congrats on the new digs! i wish i could have seen the origins, but they will have to live on in lore...

    2 years ago

  • MyMoms

    MyMoms says:

    Definitely different and unique.

    2 years ago

  • cutiepiecompany

    cutiepiecompany says:

    I love DUMBO, it has really come so far in recent years, I remember it 10 years ago (not so nice...)! Can't wait to check out the new space, very exciting.

    2 years ago

  • cindylouwho2

    cindylouwho2 says:

    Ugh, I hate moving! I hope it goes smoothly for everyone!

    2 years ago

  • freshandclean

    freshandclean says:

    How exciting! Good luck with the move.

    2 years ago

  • beadinbythesea

    beadinbythesea says:

    Sounds like a good move. Love the picture of the DUMBO neighborhood and I'm looking forward to seeing the new offices inside!

    2 years ago

  • Fairyfolk

    Fairyfolk says:

    Lovely location... the view must be amazing! Hope the move goes smoothly. Blessings and magic.

    2 years ago

  • lovelygifts

    lovelygifts says:

    Good luck!

    2 years ago

  • TheCottageCheese

    TheCottageCheese says:

    Good luck with the big move. I hope we get to see pics of the new offices!

    2 years ago

  • GeorginaKay

    GeorginaKay says:

    I LOVE LOVE that shot of the bridge - so different to my work place in London, England! :)

    2 years ago

  • vintagebutterfly94

    vintagebutterfly94 says:

    ok, don't forget to pack my gold silverware. Even though are you are on Goldstreet anymore, you still gotta eat.

    2 years ago

  • KisforCalligraphy

    KisforCalligraphy says:

    And just when I thought I had memorized your Gold Street address! Good luck with the move. Looking forward to learning your new street address! xo

    2 years ago

  • OwlandMouse

    OwlandMouse says:

    Good luck with the move!

    2 years ago

  • breadandroses2

    breadandroses2 says:

    Kind of a fresh start to move into a better location, Etsy! I'm excited for you. Show us photographs once settled in, or before even. Best wishes!

    2 years ago

  • strandsoflight

    strandsoflight says:

    Sounds wonderful! Hope the move goes smoothly.

    2 years ago

  • TopsailWinds

    TopsailWinds says:

    How exciting! congrats and good luck with the move! I'm thrilled that you're in NYC! I would love to attend some Labs in Brooklyn!

    2 years ago

  • CrownBindery

    CrownBindery says:

    Moving is hard work! But so worth it! Congrats Etsy for growing up into a new space! Can't wait to see it! Need new notebook binders for your new office? See me :):):):)!

    2 years ago

  • Waterrose

    Waterrose says:

    Have fun with your move! Glad that you will have a more functional space with better connectivity!

    2 years ago

  • SomewhatHip

    SomewhatHip says:

    Oh man, I was just at the Manhattan Bridge on an NYC trip, and I can't believe I could have stopped by Etsy and didn't! I love the view from that bridge at night, looking at the Brooklyn Bridge and downtown at once. Gorgeous! Go eat some pizza at Grimaldi's for me, Etsy admin!

    2 years ago

  • desertnana

    desertnana says:

    WELL YOUR MOVING ON UP MOVING ON UP TO THE DUMBO NEIGHBORHOOD! I SO LOOK FORWARD TO MY FIRST VISIT THERE IN THE FALL! HOPE YOU ARE ALL SETTLING IN COMFORTABLY! ~HUGS DESERTNANA

    2 years ago

  • Iammie

    Iammie says:

    I feel excited for you all ^^

    2 years ago

  • VerteAdelie

    VerteAdelie says:

    Love the DUMBO acronym ! Good luck for the move (and remember to bend your knees if you have to lift something heavy ;-)).

    2 years ago

  • gretchenmist

    gretchenmist says:

    wow. would love to hop on a plane and visit new york + esty offices!

    2 years ago

  • steinschmuckdesign

    steinschmuckdesign says:

    Hi Sarah, nice to meet you and wish you all a good start!

    2 years ago

  • ThePeachTree

    ThePeachTree says:

    I can't wait!!

    2 years ago

  • dbabcock

    dbabcock says:

    Congratulations on the new digs!

    2 years ago

  • sherrytruitt

    sherrytruitt says:

    Great news and best of luck!

    2 years ago

  • johndmc

    johndmc says:

    Congratulations. I am sure no one will miss dodging the traffic on Flatbush Avenue or the erratic elevator.

    2 years ago

  • BlessedRepublic

    BlessedRepublic says:

    Congratulations! Very progressive and inspiring!

    2 years ago

  • betsy3

    betsy3 says:

    WOW! wonderful location!

    2 years ago

  • Zabba

    Zabba says:

    My husband and I were just wondering this mornign where the Etsy headquarters is. Coincidently, I just found this story. Good luck with the move. Office moves can be a pain but very exciting.

    2 years ago

  • 1AEON

    1AEON says:

    so york stop on the F, right? not bad..much nicer neighborhood and still pretty close!! yaaaaaaaay!!!!

    2 years ago

  • spacejam

    spacejam says:

    congrats!! have fun there _)

    2 years ago

  • dolliecs

    dolliecs says:

    Nice to hear from you, and welcome to Etsy! I'm excited for you! Thanks for introducing yourself and good luck in your new space. Keep us posted!

    2 years ago

  • RSSDesignsInFiber

    RSSDesignsInFiber says:

    Great that Etsy's office will have handmade items made by Etsy Sellers in it!! Congrats on the move up!

    2 years ago

  • paramountvintage

    paramountvintage says:

    very exciting!!!

    2 years ago

  • PipocaHandmade

    PipocaHandmade says:

    Good luck with the move and thanks for keeping us posted!

    2 years ago

  • centralbarkdesigns

    centralbarkdesigns says:

    Good luck with the big move. Can't wait to check out the new digs!

    2 years ago

  • mireillemanuel

    mireillemanuel says:

    Congrats!!

    2 years ago

  • MaisonBoheme

    MaisonBoheme says:

    Happy moving!

    2 years ago

  • claudiagriffiths

    claudiagriffiths says:

    Congratulation on the move!

    2 years ago

  • derinmavi

    derinmavi says:

    Wish you the best in your new place! And what a great photo..Is it the Empire State Building looking under the bridge? Sorry, I haven't been to NY before but if so it's been a very good angle! :-)

    2 years ago

  • themefragrance

    themefragrance says:

    we love dumbo! good views, good company and good chocolate there! good luck!

    2 years ago

  • VonRatten

    VonRatten says:

    Good luck, and happy trails to you! :o)

    2 years ago

  • MalindasBeadDesigns

    MalindasBeadDesigns says:

    Welcome to the Etsy staff. I really appreciate the site and the chance to work from home and bead like crazy, home school my son and paint the house. Good Luck, Malinda Vogel

    2 years ago

  • BlueCrushBeads

    BlueCrushBeads says:

    Sarah, Good Luck with your new career at Etsy. I cant wait to hear more! Moving can be crazy at times. Make sure you have lots of fun doing it!

    2 years ago

  • alkdesigns

    alkdesigns says:

    Iwas just strolling around there and had no idea! Great location.

    2 years ago

  • CrazyDaisiesDesigns

    CrazyDaisiesDesigns says:

    Wow this is wonderful! I would LOVE to work in the Etsy office!! What a wonderful location! Can't wait to see the photos of the inside. Love the picks above so far. The stapler necklace is a hoot! Good luck and thanks for making the world of Etsy for all of us artists. Peace, Jessica

    2 years ago

  • worksandfinds

    worksandfinds says:

    Great news, great place. Good luck in your new job. Thanks for keeping us posted.

    2 years ago

  • anothertimeantiques

    anothertimeantiques says:

    Warmest heartful wishes for a smooth move! Oh my my, I shutter at the thought of moving a whole big office conglomeration!!! Will be looking for pictures someday!

    2 years ago

  • claycass

    claycass says:

    Nice Move. What is the new address?

    2 years ago

  • LadyLuLus

    LadyLuLus says:

    AWESOME! Great office items!

    2 years ago

  • demigodstudio

    demigodstudio says:

    I want to come check out your new up and coming 'hood this summer! I'll just look for the orange wall to guide my journey :)

    2 years ago

  • ChiarandCo

    ChiarandCo says:

    hello everyone...i have been on etsy for a short time and am not completely familiar with how things work. I also do not know where to ask the right questions since i can't find the "contact us" link to send Etsy headquarters the right questions...thank you for your patience! here i go: how does one get picked for the handpicked items? when is the best time to promote myself in a showcase spot? everytime i try, there are no spots left...never!!! How do I advertise better? i am on facebook, but that's about it...and that's only goes to the people i know! I am a mother of three, my husband is a chef and works long hours, and i work 4 days a week outside the house restoring paintings...i don't always have time to read through all of the Etsy info!!! sorry! sincerely, chiara

    1 year ago