NextFab Studios grows up, to hold preview party for NextFab 2

Next Fab Studio launched in January 2010 on the first floor of the University City Science Center as a members-only 3D prototyping studio. It was part of an idealistic strategy: turn a stretch of West Market Street into a vibrant tech corridor.

Now, the organization is hoping to add window-dressing to another area of Philadelphia, but they need community support.

At the end of February the outfit announced plans to build out a second location at 2025 Washington Avenue in the Graduate Hospital/South Philadelphia. Now they’re hosting a blowout preview launch party they want you to attend.

To transition the venue from an old ironworking shop to a 3D printing mecca, Philly architecture and design firm inHabit is revamping the 21,000 square foot spot to include everything from private studios, classrooms, and an on-site street-level cafe.

“The next space is going to be five times larger and have twice as many machines,” NextFab’s Community Service Specialist Itsuki Ogihara said.

To raise awareness of the move and local 3D artists excited, NextFab is holding a preview party at the new location on April 19, 2012. The NextFab crew will be auctioning off studio space, offering opportunities for discounted membership, and raffling off NextFab curated prizes.

To register for the party or become a corporate sponsor, click here.