KATHI COGEN - HAVEN Ha-ven n. 1. a port 2. any sheltered place; refuge. What I’d like to add to Webster’s New Word Dictionary, are the modifiers that describe such place’s keeper. Words like resilient, energetic, and respected. Words that define the inner make up of owner Kathi Cogen – ones that ring especially true after a fire destroyed the entire contents of her fashionable boutique and furniture store last April. Located only a block and half from the ocean’s edge in downtown Montauk, Haven, like the Phoenix itself, has risen from the ashes. And through various means of creative advertising on radio and in print, Kathi has made sure that the word is out, Haven is not only up, but very much running!If one were to describe the décor and vibe that exists at Haven from the moment you walk in, it would have to be “groovy.” A classic, late 50’s orange sofa nuzzled up to a chrome-laden 60’s wet-bar greets you upon entering. Islandy (if there is such a word) also comes to mind. Tons of one-of-a-kind, art deco and mid-century dressers, tables, and cabinets that have been given a second life -- wearing new coats of sky blue, key lime green, and distressed ivory. The mix of fashion and furniture is unique to Haven, and Kathi has definitely nailed it. Part Southern California, part South Beach Miami -- at any moment, one expects a mod version of Annette Funicello to exit the changing room wearing a beachy print dress that matches her newly acquired bedroom set, you gotta love it! The addition of several jewelry cases filled with sparkling gems, rounds out an amazing array of products all under one roof.  The flow of the place is quite conducive to losing oneself for at least an hour, with Kathi’s warm and knowledgeable staff making both regulars and first-timers feel right at home – something that is not easily attained in resort towns such as Montauk, which rely heavily on part-time, seasonal help. Kudos to her for placing such emphasis on customer service, it’s a dying art for sure.
It’s with great pleasure that I not only amplify the creativity that Kathi Cogen has bestowed upon the village of Montauk with her one-of-a-kind hip shop called Haven, but more importantly, the inner strength and vision of a special woman that is overcoming the obstacles presented before her, on this journey we call life. A financial contribution has been made by Viejo Sol in honor of Kathi to the East End Foundation.
Return to the Season of the Sol main page.
|
||||
