What is the capacity of the building?
The building can comfortably accommodate about 100 people using both first and second floors. The number of people who can fit on the first floor while seated is smaller. The number who can sit at tables is smaller still. Furniture can be rearranged, but this must be done with care due to the antique nature of many of the furnishings.
What is the floor plan?
The first floor is a long, narrow room (approximately 900 sf) with a bar toward the rear, illuminated by day from an overhead skylight. The second floor, reached by stairs, is smaller (approx. 700 sf) with windows facing east and west. There is an accessible first floor restroom and another, “old fashioned” toilet in the basement which is not accessible. Interior images are viewable on the photo gallery page.
Is it handicap accessible?
Yes. The street level, first floor is accessible and the restroom at this level is also accessible. There is no elevator so the second floor and basement are not accessible.
What are the furnishings at Hathaway’s Hideaway?
The bars, tables, and chairs are, for the most part, irreplaceable antiques with connections to local institutions like The Roundtable and original Pretzel Bell restaurants and the Michigan Union. They are sturdy furniture, but should be handled with care. More about the history of the furnishings can be found on the photo gallery page.
What types of events are permitted?
The ideal user for Hathaway’s Hideaway is a recurring monthly meeting or social gathering with a community purpose. These events could be held by non-profit organizations or informal, ad hoc community groups. We also welcome fundraisers for worthy causes.* We generally don’t offer the facility as a venue for private parties (e.g. birthdays, anniversaries, wedding dinners, baby showers, reunions, memorials…).
Are there any exceptions to the “no private parties” rule?
We sometimes will allow a private party when there is a longtime connection to the Hathaway family. If someone already acquainted with our family asks permission to host a private event, then we would consider making an exception to the rule.
What types of events are forbidden?
Parties for young people, either children or teenagers, are not allowed. We are also very restrictive about use by young adults. Large-scale events are also forbidden. The facility can comfortably hold about 100 people. Much more than 100 will begin to feel crowded and unsafe.
What about serving alcoholic beverages?
If there is no admission charge or other fee, you are permitted to serve alcoholic beverages to your guests who are 21 years and older. If there is any admission charged for the event or per drink, then you must obtain and post a temporary liquor license. Any alcoholic beverages must be overseen and not made available to underage or over-indulged drinkers. Building users are responsible for the safety and security of their guests.
Can we put a sign up for our event?
There is a single window at street level. This window acts as a display space for signs for the various events. You may put a large, poster board sign in the window to help attendees know that they have reached the location for your event.
What about decorating the interior of the building?
We feel that Hathaway’s Hideaway has a charm that doesn’t really call for additional decoration. However, if you do choose to put up decorations, please do not use tape on walls or on the pictures hanging there or on any other surfaces (the exception is blue, “painters” tape which must be removed after your event). Do not move the pictures. Add no nails or hooks to walls or woodwork.
Does the building have audio/visual equipment?
There is a projection screen but users will have to bring their own amplification and/or projection equipment. An LCD projector shelf is positioned to display on a screen set up on top of the piano.
* Note: Because we view Hathaway’s Hideaway as an extension of our home, we reserve the right to select groups and causes that we would feel comfortable sponsoring ourselves.