WLM | shop
Following her gut feeling that a larger space lurked
in Laramie that was right for them, Billie researched
opportunities in different parts of town until frustration
resigned her to wait and let the right space come to
her. The opportunity came shortly thereafter via Billie’s
mentor and friend, Misty Hester, co-owner of Chalk N
Cheese in Downtown Laramie. Offering her a chance
to check out what current Laramigoes dubbed “The
Maurices Building” on South Second Street, Billie
found their store’s new home – plus much more.
The 1908 building, once operated by McCue as an
automotive garage downstairs and a series of rooms
upstairs, is a large and open space with optimal
retail opportunity. Hidden behind drop ceilings and
underneath layers of flooring lay the original tin ceiling
and maple floors, ready to be enjoyed again. The co-op
members asked contractors to “leave a little character”
in the floors when they refurbished them; coop members
Billie and Lisa added with a laugh, “We’ve added a
little character of our own as we have moved furniture
around.” The team removed a portion of the store’s front
display windows, turning them into a garage door that
invites the public to enjoy the treasures inside.
When it came to the upstairs, previous owner Misty
Hester had taken the building back to its roots.
Originally, the series of 9x13 foot rooms upstairs were
available for ‘railroaders,’ called ‘Modern Rooms’ and
later ‘McCue Modern Rooms.’ These simple rooms
shared a common bathroom and were made with solid
framing, picture molding and lovely door frames that
exist and add to its character today. Misty remade the
space into two spacious vacation rentals, complete
with kitchens and every creature comfort. A popular
rental for those coming to Laramie for UW games,
www.wyolifestyle.com
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