Known for its artsy flair, Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone just got funkier with the opening of a 5,000-square-foot retail space that reinterprets a historic building.

For more than 27 years, Henry Castelo dreamed of opening a business that would foster community.

“If I can make a connection and see into someone’s personality and make that person feel seen and heard and a part of it, that’s more important than any expensive sale I can make,” Castelo said.

Twenty vendors fill the space at Assembledge with clothing, jewelry, toys, records and more for customers to browse.

“If they find an object that evokes emotions or memories, it’s priceless,” Castelo said.

In addition to retail, the store also features works by local artists.

“When I saw this space empty, I said I can exhibit local art here,” Castelo added.

The large warehouse at Santa Barbara and Yanonali Streets has seen many changes since 1959, says local artist and longtime Funk Zone resident Michael Erwin.

“I remember when Clyde Beattie’s surf shop was here. I saw its development, and having Henry come in and use his creativity to create this space was really invigorating,” Erwin said.

When you visit Assembledge you get a little bit of everything, but at its core it’s about…

“I truly believe that connection, conversation and community are our foundation,” Castelo said.

The store opened in May this year and hosts outdoor markets on weekends.