Athens toy shop Treehouse Kid & Craft comes with a sweet twist

The delighted gasp of a child, eyes wide with wonder – that's the sound Kristen Bach, owner of Treehouse Kid & Craft in Athens, cherishes most. More than just a toy store, Treehouse is a vibrant hub brimming with colorful toys, art supplies, unique candies from around the globe, and creamy soft-serve ice cream. It’s a place where childhood joy and creative exploration intertwine, offering a sweet escape for Athenians of all ages, a particularly welcome respite in a community known for its robust university presence and sometimes-intense pace. Athens, Georgia, a city steeped in musical history and renowned for its progressive spirit, also faces challenges common to college towns – balancing rapid growth with preserving its unique character and supporting local businesses.

Treehouse Kid & Craft, located at 585 Barber St., opened its doors in 2010 on the outskirts of downtown Athens, initially near the Alps Road corridor. This location served as a foundational space, allowing Bach to test her concept and build a loyal following. However, as Athens has grown and evolved, particularly with increased development along Prince Avenue and a surge in housing demand that’s impacted affordability for many residents, the need for a more central location became apparent. In 2023, Bach relocated the business to the historic Boulevard neighborhood, a move that allowed for a delightful expansion: Treathouse Candy and Cones, an adjoining shop dedicated to artisanal treats and ice cream. The Boulevard, once a quieter residential area with a mix of historic homes and small businesses, has seen increased investment and revitalization in recent years, attracting both residents and businesses. This strategic move placed Treehouse squarely within a walkable, vibrant neighborhood, enhancing its visibility and accessibility. The business is open Monday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesday-Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., according to their website Treehouse Kid & Craft.

The Sweet Genesis of a Dream

Kristen Bach’s vision for Treehouse stemmed from a personal need she observed while pregnant with her daughter. Recognizing a lack of children-focused stores in Athens that combined play, creativity, and quality goods, she wanted to create a space that nurtured imagination and learning. Athens, while rich in culture and artistic expression – fueled by the University of Georgia’s renowned arts programs and a thriving local music scene – had limited options for families seeking engaging and enriching experiences for their children beyond the typical big-box retailers. With a background in both art and education – she holds degrees from the University of Georgia – Bach decided to combine her passions, incorporating a toy store to ensure the business's financial sustainability. “I went to school for art and education, and I have a lot of teaching experience. And so I wanted to do something that was inclusive to the arts,” she explained.

Creative Flavors and Unique Treats

Treathouse’s menu is as imaginative as the store itself. Specialty sundaes, swirls, and combinations rotate regularly, inspired by themes ranging from astrology to seasonal flavors. The Scorpio sundae, for example, features imported Swedish black licorice syrup and homemade black sesame brittle – a nod to the sign's mysterious and complex nature. The S’more, the Merrier is coated in dark chocolate and garnished with toasted marshmallows, a classic combination elevated by Condor Chocolate’s rich, locally-made chocolate.

Bach’s personal favorite, however, is The EVOO-OOOH, a unique combination of vanilla soft serve, olive oil, sea salt, and dried orange – a surprising yet harmonious blend of sweet and savory. This willingness to experiment and push boundaries reflects Bach's artistic sensibility and her desire to offer customers something truly special.

Bach encourages her staff to experiment with flavors and combinations, fostering a culture of creativity and innovation. This collaborative approach ensures a constantly evolving menu that surprises and delights customers. She wants to keep introducing new products, classes and desserts to the lineup. The shop’s dedication to quality ingredients, sourcing locally whenever possible, and artistic presentation reflects a commitment to providing a truly special experience for every visitor. Read more about the business.

A Community Hub

While Treehouse initially catered to children and families, Bach has witnessed a shift in its customer base over the years. The Boulevard neighborhood’s growing popularity has attracted a more diverse clientele, including college students and young professionals. Since the move to Barber Street, the shop has become increasingly popular with college students, who often express a need for a dose of joy and a break from the pressures of academic life. “As we get older, it’s just like things get more serious and more serious. I’m happy that they have this space where they feel welcome,” Bach said. “A lot of people come in here and they’re just like, ‘I just needed a dose of joy,’ and that’s the best compliment in the whole wide world.” This sentiment speaks to a broader societal yearning for moments of levity and connection in an increasingly complex world, and underscores the importance of accessible spaces for stress relief and community building.

Beyond retail and ice cream, Treehouse actively cultivates community engagement. The shop hosts regular art classes, including the Adult Sparkle Club, which has become a popular gathering spot for creative adults seeking a playful outlet. The summer camps offer children opportunities to explore unique artistic mediums like metal-smithing, graphic design, and digital illustration – skills often unavailable in traditional school settings. These programs provide valuable opportunities for creative expression and skill development within the Athens community, contributing to the city’s vibrant arts scene and offering alternatives to screen-based entertainment.

Sister Shops and Future Plans

While Bach’s sister operates a similar business called Clubhouse Kid & Craft in Decatur, catering to a different demographic and market, she has no immediate plans to expand Treehouse further within Athens. Bach’s focus remains on nurturing the existing business and maintaining its role as a small, family-operated enterprise deeply rooted in the local community. She emphasizes the importance of staying engaged through art, volunteering, and fostering relationships within Athens. “It’s important for me to stay engaged within my community, like through art, be able to volunteer. I think that’s a truly ethical responsibility for a small business to continue those relationships and help [the community],” she said.

A Beacon of Joy in a Busy World

Watching Kristen Bach build Treehouse Kid & Craft has been inspiring. In a world that often feels driven by pressure and competition, she’s created a space that prioritizes joy, creativity, and connection. The success of Treehouse speaks to the enduring power of simple pleasures – the delight on a child’s face, the comfort of a familiar treat, the opportunity to explore one’s artistic potential. It's a reminder that businesses can be more than just profit-making ventures; they can be vital contributors to the well-being of a community.

What’s particularly striking is how Treehouse has adapted to meet the evolving needs of Athens. The influx of college students seeking a moment of respite underscores the universal human need for lightheartedness and escape. It also highlights the importance of businesses that cater to all ages, recognizing that everyone deserves a little bit of childhood magic. I hope residents continue to support this wonderful local business and the values it represents – a commitment to community, creativity, and the simple joy of a sweet treat.

The story also raises questions about the challenges faced by small, family-owned businesses in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Maintaining a balance between growth and preserving a sense of intimacy and personalized service can be difficult. The rising costs of ingredients and rent, coupled with the need to attract and retain skilled staff, pose ongoing hurdles. It will be interesting to see how Treehouse navigates these challenges while continuing to serve as a beloved Athens institution. Perhaps other entrepreneurs could learn from Bach’s example – prioritizing community engagement and fostering a welcoming environment for all.

Supporting Local Businesses

For those looking to support local businesses in Athens, several resources are available. The City of Athens website provides information on local events and initiatives, as well as resources for small business owners. The Athens Chamber of Commerce offers networking opportunities and advocacy for local businesses. Supporting local businesses like Treehouse Kid & Craft helps strengthen the community and preserves the unique character of Athens, contributing to a more resilient and vibrant local economy. Consider also exploring the Shop Athens initiative, which promotes local businesses and encourages residents to support the local economy.

Looking Ahead

Kristen Bach’s dedication to Treehouse Kid & Craft and Treathouse Candy and Cones demonstrates a deep commitment to Athens and its residents. Her vision extends beyond simply running a successful business; she aims to cultivate a space where creativity thrives, connections are forged, and joy is abundant. As Treehouse continues to evolve, it promises to remain a cherished destination for Athenians of all ages, a testament to the power of small businesses to enrich the fabric of a community. The potential for expansion into online retail or partnerships with local schools could further amplify Treehouse’s reach and impact.

The continued success of Treehouse and Treathouse hinges on their ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences, maintain their commitment to quality and creativity, and navigate the economic realities facing small businesses. With Kristen Bach at the helm, however, the future looks bright for these beloved Athens establishments, continuing to serve as a sweet spot for joy and imagination.

The story also raises questions about the challenges faced by small, family-owned businesses in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Maintaining a balance between growth and preserving a sense of intimacy and personalized service can be difficult. The rising costs of ingredients and rent, coupled with the need to attract and retain skilled staff, pose ongoing hurdles. It will be interesting to see how Treehouse navigates these challenges while continuing to serve as a beloved Athens institution.