Fort Family: Foreground Studio

Fort Family: Foreground Studio

Fifty businesses have said Yes to this genuine old factory space. We had no idea that would happen. Or that our spaces would be home to so wide a variety of Makers. Like the landscape architecture firm, Foreground Studio. Their studio at The Fort retains the 19th Century factory aesthetic, focuses on Mid Century Modern, and adds 21st century design and function.

We sat down with Noah Mabry to hear more about he and Singleton Hicks’ thriving business…

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Fort Family: Roof Die Tool & Machine

Bill Francis knows more about The Fort than anyone working here.

Why? Because Bill has been here for over 30 years. Long before The Fort was named. He has seen businesses come and go, and has stories to tell. There’s a glimmer of knowing in his eyes.

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You’ll find Bill, Rick and Bill’s daughter Olivia in their 6000 square foot space, on the north side of 2000 South High. They have an enviable location: plenty of parking, below the street sounds. A large loading dock. And daily entry through The Fort’s beautiful sandstone viaduct. The shop is a machinery dream, with a variety that spans old and new. Drill bits so big they make you stop and stare. Everything here is brutally heavy duty. But not Bill. He’s quick to listen, with a friendly smile. Same is true of his crew, Rick and Olivia.

Here’s our Q&A with Bill (followed by photos):

What is Roof Tool Die & Machine?

We are a small business, that is a tool & die machine shop.  CNC milling/turning, general machining, tool & die making. We specialize in general job shop machining, short run prototype work.

What do you love about your work?

I feel that my job is more like a form of art and I am able to show my talents with the quality products that I produce.

What brought you to the Seagrave building to open your business?

Basically, location. Most of our customers are within or have quick access to the I-270 outer belt. Also, It has given us the option to expand our business and our workspace. When Roof Die Tool first started, they had 2000 square feet and now we have been able to expand to 6000. So, if the opportunity arises there is plenty of space still available if we would like to expand more.

You are the true anchor of our community here at The Fort—do you have a favorite story about this place?

Mainly, the history of the building; the people who have come and gone. Listening to the elders and their stories of being here. When I started out here my boss, Robert Roof, who started Roof Die Tool taught me so much! He had so many incredible stories of his time here. William Neal of Weldon Tech. was a great Engineer and he taught me a lot about die sets. Ed & Bill Eubanks of DeFabco are Fabricator and Welders who helped introduce us to many new customers. I have gotten to meet some customers who have been around this area since the 50's-60's that have shared a lot of old stories about the building and area.

Thanks, Bill!

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Thanks for joining us! Follow Roof Die Tool & Machine Inc.

Fort Family: Prema Designs

Tell us about Prema Designs!

Prema Designs is a a full service wedding and event design company that handles every aspect of creating the esthetic of an event and making our clients inspirations come to life. 

We are a team made up of individuals that are bursting with creativity and an eagerness to push floral boundaries. Our goal and reason for doing what we do is the "goosies moment": when our clients see the space for the first time (untouched by guests) filled with all the dreams and custom designs made just for them. It’s one of the most gratifying moments you can witness.

During our creative process you will find us taking dance breaks or singing at the top of our lungs. Our light and fun-filled environment is necessary while making pieces made to celebrate whichever special event our clients hired us for. And we are the place filled with the snacks! Snack breaks are a must in life in general. 

Why did you choose The Fort?

This space is the space of my dreams. It embodies the exact feel of what Prema is with the opportunity for growth. The Fort is a community filled with creativity and small businesses that just want to do what they do and have fun doing it. Plus the owner Justin is probably one of the best landlords I have met. You can tell he loves this building and wants his tenants to be comfortable, successful and happy. Never leaving. 

Meet Rita, owner of Prema Designs

Meet Rita, owner of Prema Designs

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TEAM PREMA

TEAM PREMA

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Learn more about Rita and her services: Prema Designs

Fort Family: The Millennial Suite

The Millennial Suite is a full service photography studio that specializes in content creation. From creative videos to epic photos that showcase what your brand is all about, they help their clients establish a voice for their brands.

In their search for the perfect space, The Millenial Suite team landed at The Fort because it offered them character, heritage and the flexibility to create their own space.

Sisters Nasteha & Nuni Yusuf, with photographer Matelli Graves

Sisters Nasteha & Nuni Yusuf, with photographer Matelli Graves