I had the opportunity to peek into the happenings at a perfect new shop called Grounds Coffee Bar, connected with Reclaimed furniture store!

Brent and Megan, the sweet couple that started this unique shop took some time to answer a few of my questions and let me roam the showroom and workshop upstairs. They tell me it’s always changing, which seems to fit with the life of the Downtown Crystal Lake train station just across the street.

A fresh feel from the sleek wood and vibrant colors greet the morning Metra commuters, and locally sourced products offer them a perfect start to their day.

For downtown shoppers hoping to stay a while and sip their hot coffee, a wall of windows makes for a perfect sun-filled study spot with an intriguing invitation to explore the back room filled with treasures.

A conveniently placed furniture elevator makes for easy transfer of the pieces from the upstairs workshop.

This particular Friday morning found Brent and Doug constructing a custom made table, but work boards show all kinds of upcoming projects. Gatherings of old wood and discarded chairs certainly buzz with potential for what will eventually be displayed in the glowing room below.

Check this lovely location out next time you’ve got a few minutes before the next train!