Rentals for The Studio in downtown Troy have tripled this year and that’s good news for the Troy-Pike Cultural Arts Center.

“The Studio rentals have become a fund-raiser for the cultural arts center,” said Morgan Drinkard, arts center executive director. “And, for a non-profit organization, it’s a wonderful source of additional income.”

Drinkard said that she has been somewhat surprised by the popularity of The Studio for a variety of events, especially for wedding receptions.

“Beginning the second week in May and going through the third week in August, The Studio is booked every weekend,” Drinkard said. “We even have bookings in 2014. It’s amazing.”

Drinkard said one reason for the popularity of The Studio as an events venue is that, other than church fellowship halls, there are few rental venues in downtown Troy.

“But the main reason is that people are looking for venues that have more of a rustic look, a raw look. Venues that are ‘real,’” Drinkard said. “They love the openness of the building, the exposed beams and the rough, old brick walls. That it’s the way it was.”

“Some of those who rent The Studio use it just as it is. Others decorate it with satin and such and it becomes a luxury venue with a bit of a raw edge.

“And, too, people seem to like that the building has a history. It was once the press room for The Messenger and was later the sign shop for the City of Troy.”

The building maintains much of its original integrity and features items of antiquity from the old post office, circa 1900.

“The Studio doesn’t have any frills but it does have heating, air conditioning, restroom facilities and a kitchenette,” Drinkard said. “We also have tables and chairs available for use. And the acoustics are outstanding. Someone can be playing a guitar at one end of the building and you can hear it at the other.”

But with the upgrades, Drinkard said The Studio has not lost the feeling of what it is.

“Those who rent The Studio are supporting the mission of the Troy-Pike Cultural Arts Center – the enrichment of the cultural arts in our community,” she said. “In meeting their needs for an event venue, they are meeting our needs by providing additional income for the Troy-Pike Cultural Arts Center and the Johnson Center for the Arts and it is greatly appreciated.”

For more information about the Troy-Pike Cultural Arts Center and exhibits at the Johnson Center, call (334) 670-2287.