Where are Clarkston’s third spaces? — Canopy Atlanta

Both Bouie and Solvig agreed that partnerships are essential to bringing together the many communities represented in Clarkston. No single person or organization can create spaces that foster belonging on their own. This led me to wonder what is an ideal third space—one where people gather, connect, and truly belong. Maybe, I might look beyond Clarkston.

But, first I made one last stop to my co-working space. Edwin Jarvis CoWork Club is one of the suites located beside the open green space at Clarkston Market. Inside, it has high-quality desks and chairs, comfortable couches, and a welcoming coffee area. 

I spoke with Barrett Merrill, another member, who shared that he values this space because of his personal connection to the idea of third spaces—places he remembers from his upbringing.

Edwin Jarvis members can work indoors or take their laptops outside. I have even worked barefoot on the grass while watching children play nearby. The space feels warm, relaxed, and family-friendly. However, despite its strong amenities and central location, not many members of the Clarkston community currently use it. 

Still seeking community connections, I continued my search for belonging. 

Over the next few days, I visited coffee shops, reading rooms, and open community markets in Decatur, Avondale, and surrounding areas. People worked quietly on laptops, families gathered, children played, and bulletin boards advertised local services and cultural events. Some spaces felt intentionally designed for connection; others seemed to grow into it over time. 

I drove about seven to 10 minutes from Clarkston and pulled up to a white, ranch-style home—the sign read “Waller’s Coffee Shop.” The first thing that caught my attention wasn’t the coffee, but the space itself. Outside, there was a rustic seating area. Inside, I saw church benches, a colorful bulletin board filled with local announcements, and small details that felt intentional. The barista pointed out a trail behind the building, a play area for children, and other amenities that extended the space beyond a simple transaction.

I spoke with Regis Lawson, a regular customer, “I stay here for three, four, sometimes five hours,” he shared.  When I asked if the space reminded him of where he grew up in Paris, he said not exactly, but noted that in Paris, small gathering spaces like this are far more common. 

When asked about diversity, he added, “I don’t see too many people from other cultures in coffee shops here.”

What Lawson said shifted my perspective. Initially I saw these spaces as places to gather. Now, I understand these spaces are reflections of who feels included. 

In Clarkston, we are diverse. We do our best to meet each other where we are. However, that doesn’t always mean we all feel we belong. Connection is visible in Clarkston. Belonging is more complicated.