The Cultural North End
September 15, 2015
By: Rebecca Willette
Boston’s “Little Italy” is the destination for a well-seasoned slice of brickoven pizza or any variety of cannoli you can imagine (which only makes sense, considering the number of Italian immigrants who’ve made it their home), but it’s also a sought after residential neighborhood for young professionals working in Government Center and the Financial District. Situated near the harbor, the North End boasts scenic views of the city by night (there are a ton of apartments with rooftop decks to access this view, if you don’t have it out your window) and local shops to peruse by day, including several clothing and home goods boutiques. If you have a sweet tooth that won’t quit like I do, or could go for a filling calzone after the bar closes, stop by my personal favorite attraction, Bova’s Bakery on Salem Street, open 24 hours.
One bedroom spaces average around $1,600 with some closer to $2,000 and few as low as $1,300. If you’re willing to take on a roommate or two, a place can be secured for near $1,000 each per month.There is an abundance of history and culture within the walls of this neighborhood, so to make it your own, never fear the DIY-makeover or underestimate the power of a statement vase.
But before losing the deposit by painting the walls turquoise, here are a few local shops to visit for inspiration:
True Value
89 Salem Street
Having visited this particular hardware store frequently (just yesterday to buy a new toilet brush), I can honestly say that I get sidetracked every single time. Did you know they have tea cups? Adorable, and incredibly charming on an open-face shelf. Need a new cutting board that measures pie crusts, or miniature storage suitcases covered with a map of the world? They have those, too.
However, if you’re looking to get crafty, you can pick up some electrical tape to recreate the accent wall shown here (especially useful if painting is a no-no), or carefully select a few hardware pieces to DIY the curtain tie-back shown here, an update understated enough to go with any style.
Ensemble
62 Salem Street
A women’s clothing and home goods boutique, Ensemble is one of those small shops that someone could lose an hour or two in. This is a store with an eclectic feel, supplying anything from colorful french bulldog candles to lobster dishware. Whether looking for wall art inspiration, or that final piece to complete an expertly curated bookshelf, Ensemble is worth a browse on the way to grab a cannoli.
Shake the Tree
67 Salem Street
Yes, Ensemble has some fierce competition right across the street, which is great for us. Less walking and more homegoods to explore? Really, we couldn’t ask for more in a city.
The vibe of Shake the Tree is a little more subdued than its competitor, with black and white patterned picture frames, homemaker cookbooks, and soap wrapped in floral paper, this is the shop for those of us whose taste in decor leans towards classic, which will pair nicely the charm of an older apartment.
Sackcloth & Ashes
I know, this isn’t a local shop, but it is an online shop that will benefit the local community. Yes, that’s right, for every blanket purchased from Sackcloth & Ashes, a blanket will be donated to the local homeless shelter. The quality of just the right blanket in a new space cannot be denied, and their selection ranges from tribal prints to solid fleece. It’s an easy way to enhance a space while providing comfort to someone in need.