For over two years now, Coffeeweed Cottage has gathered a unique community of people at a former auto-repair shop in Lafayette’s La Place, or “Fightinville,” neighborhood, just north of downtown.
Owner Denise Champagne-McClure filled the space with plants, textiles, decor and a great little coffee and lunch counter, while making the most of the light streaming through the shop’s massive windows. The effect is both welcoming and inspiring — which probably has something to do with Coffeeweed Cottage’s special clientele.
During busy periods, the shop’s tables are filled with people reading, working, meeting and socializing with each other. Yes, this is typical of coffee shops, but here there’s an atmosphere of positive activity that creates a remarkably delightful third place, defined as a social environment outside of one’s home or work…