OUR SPACE

111 West 11th:
Rich History & Modern Legacy

The three-story brick building that once housed a bustling printing company at 111 West 11th Street in downtown Erie has sat desolate for years. Now, it’s set for a revival as the new home of Kate Philips & Co. (Kate & Co.), where creativity meets good company.

Kate & Co. is partnering with Avon Design Group and Spaulding Banks Project Management to revitalize this historic building, transforming it into a modern office space while honoring its legacy.

The building at 111 West 11th was built in 1870 between Peach and Sassafras. This 7,513 square feet structure features unique Victorian architecture, including distinctive curved windows and elegant brick arches that enhance its timeless charm.

The same year 111 West 11th was built, Erie saw the rise of several other historic landmarks, including the Addison Leech House and expansions to the Hamot House. The building is also located near the West 12th Industrial Historic District, home to a collection of industrial buildings dating back to the mid-19th century—many of which are experiencing a renaissance.

The brick-and-mortar building stands as a testament to resilience, surviving multiple environmental disasters and a structure fire. The building survived the historic Mill Creek Flood of 1915—a catastrophe that caused $3 million in damages between 7th and 26th Street, destroying 400 structures.

In 1947, AKD Printing Co. purchased the building to operate their company, which printed postcards, environmental photographs, and more.

A Mergenthaler Linotype Co. printing press, a relic of a bygone era, remains in the building and will be preserved and displayed in the office lobby. The linotype revolutionized printing in the late 19th century, and it was the first press to print some of the most iconic typefaces, including Helvetica and Times New Roman.

Renovations will honor the building’s rich history by preserving key architectural features, including the vintage printing press, the original iron fire escape, exposed brick walls, and the original curved entryway window.

The history of downtown Erie informs its future—and we’re proud to be a part of the next chapter of this storied structure.