Modal Coffee and Hostel Set to Transition in Greenville
Greenville residents and visitors have enjoyed a unique place to gather for the past four years at Modal Coffee and Hostel, but as the new year approaches, changes are on the horizon. Owner Joe Hindman has announced that the coffee shop and public art gallery will close in January 2024, shifting focus to providing only private lodging. While this may come as a surprise to many, the decision comes as a necessary pivot due to financial pressures and declining coffee sales.
A Space for Community
Since opening its doors, Modal has been more than just a hostel; it has served as a vibrant community hub, especially for the LGBTQ+ residents of Greenville. Hindman’s unique approach to hospitality drew attention nationwide, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and creative expression within a welcoming space. The micro-coffee bar served locally sourced brews and teas, while the gallery showcased works from LGBTQ+ artists through the Queer Arts Initiative. The community would come together every Thursday night for Queer Night, creating a safe space for connection and celebration.
A New Direction for Modal
Despite the closure of the coffee shop, Hindman emphasizes that the business is not shutting down; it’s merely evolving. “If we don’t evolve, if we don’t pivot, there will be no Modal. I wasn’t willing to throw in that towel because there’s so much potential here,” he explained. After reworking the logistics, the hostel will no longer operate in its previous form. Instead, it will function more like a bed and breakfast, offering comfortable accommodations and breakfast options for guests. Plans are underway to transform some dormitory rooms into standard rooms while maintaining a large dormitory space for groups.
Reflecting on the Journey
Hindman recalls the beginnings of Modal, which was founded in 2016 after he recognized a gap in the market for a creative space that doubled as both a hostel and an art gallery. However, the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on Modal’s trajectory. Opening in July 2020, when everyone was forced to socially distance, forced Hindman and his business partner David Stone to think outside the box. They began serving coffee to draw in foot traffic and quickly expanded with outdoor markets to support local artisans.
Art and Connection
During this tumultuous time, Modal found its groove, particularly with the introduction of Queer Night. This weekly gathering quickly became a staple in the community, attracting hundreds seeking camaraderie and support. Hindman proudly recalls the energy of those nights, “The moment that word got out, we had literally 100 people every Thursday night.” Alongside the community aspect, the gallery became a platform for local artists, providing exposure and a voice for their work.
The Future Looks Bright
Though the gallery will close, the spirit of the Queer Arts Initiative will endure. This new nonprofit emerged to promote and support local LGBTQ+ artists, ensuring their voices continue to be heard across various venues throughout the Upstate. Bex Miller, a board member of the Upstate SC LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce, notes that while the gallery space may disappear, the partnerships and initiatives fostered through this new organization will open doors for artists in the area.
Community Support and Looking Ahead
Despite the changes, Hindman remains optimistic. He underscores the significant impact that Modal has had on the community and notes the outpouring of support he received after announcing the transition. Many have reached out to express how important Queer Night has been in helping them meet others and forge connections. “There’s definitely a solution out there. It’s just a matter of figuring it out,” Hindman stated.
Looking ahead, Hindman is excited to make some stylistic updates to the space and to continue advocating for LGBTQ+-owned and small businesses in Greenville. He believes that despite the initial challenges, these changes present an opportunity for Modal to focus on what it does best: creating a welcoming environment that nurtures community and connection.
As December approaches, Modal’s coffee shop and gallery will remain operational, giving patrons a chance to stop by and soak in the atmosphere one last time. With a willingness to adapt and a commitment to serve, the heart of Modal will keep beating, albeit in a new and exciting direction.
