Makerspace, Design Center Coming to Fishers

Organizers hope to break ground in March or April and complete construction by the fall.

A planned design center and makerspace in Fishers will target what its founder calls a "labor crisis" in the home building and design industry. David Decker says the $14 million Hub and Spoke will have showroom, office and warehouse space for member companies along with what he calls a one-of-a-kind makerspace for hobbyists, entrepreneurs and students. He says the makerspace will serve as a "shop class on steroids" and offer equipment including 3-D printers, laser cutters and wood and metalworking tools.

Decker is partnering with OnPoint Real Estate Solutions on the project. They hope to break ground in March or April and complete construction by the fall. Hub and Spoke will span 85,000 square feet and sit along the city’s proposed Nickel Plate Trail.

In an interview with Inside INdiana Business, Decker said the space will attract members from the plumbing, lighting, home building, realtor and supply industries. He says entrepreneurs and students can also use Hub and Spoke as a learning space, with leaders from the established companies serving as mentors. Hub and Spoke will also have a partnership with Hamilton Southeastern High School to let students use the space.

Decker is the founder of ACo, which will be one of the space’s initial tenants. OnPoint, Battersby Danielson Azbell and Associates and Franklin Window & Door will also have space in Hub and Spoke.

OnPoint President Travis Tucker says he and Decker hope the space can play a part in attracting more students to the home building and design industry by improving its perception. He says they will also work with local college institutions to support students interested in entering the field.