Home decor and textiles boutique moves in, transforms Cy’s Drive-In space | Business

A new home decor and textiles boutique has moved into Colorado Springs’ west side, bringing an eclectic and unique blend of sustainable home products to the transformed space that for decades served up classic bites like cheeseburgers, fries, butterscotch malts and more as Cy’s Drive-In.

VIV Home & Goods opened July 15 inside the newly renovated, 1,000 square-foot, single-story cinderblock building at 1833 W. Uintah St., the manifestation of owner Laurel Schaffer’s desire to create a space that was more than just a store. 

A former fashion designer, Schaffer became disenchanted with the effects of the apparel industry on the environment and its workers, she said, inspiring her to create a community gathering place, one focused on thoughtful design, sustainability and support for artists and craftspeople.

“I really wanted to work in a different way, where it was less big picture, less working with big brands on counting outcomes and inputs and all those things,” she said. “I really wanted to have daily interaction with the community and help people understand what all goes into sustainability and what goes into artisan craftsmanship. I think the best way to do that is in a physical space that people visit where they can see and touch and smell.”

At the encouragement of her brother and sister-in-law Dan and Jeana Hopper, who since 2018 have owned and operated Rick’s Garden Center next door and who in 2023 purchased the Cy’s property, Schaffer moved into the building at 1833 W. Uintah.

The Hoppers had been looking to redevelop the site; after discussions between the Hoppers and the former owner of Cy’s Drive-In, the parties agreed not to renew the lease for Cy’s. The drive-in closed at the end of 2024.

VIV Home & Goods — named after Schaffer’s grandmother, a “Rosie the riveter” during WWII who taught Schaffer the value of reuse and reducing waste — welcomes customers into the remodeled space with an inviting, calm atmosphere. Brightly colored hand-crafted textiles, pillows, clothing, dinnerware, decor, furnishings, candles and more tickle the senses and invite visitors to study, touch and smell. 

Schaffer sources her materials from all over the world, including throughout the U.S., Portugal and France.

Schaffer said it was also important for her to honor the legacy of the former Cy’s Drive-In, a beloved institution that operated in Colorado Springs for more than 70 years. This is reflected in the building’s thoughtful and deliberate makeover, including the use of ethically and responsibly sourced materials, Operations Manager Amanda Arias said.

“Everybody was very sad for (Cy’s) to close, and I totally understand that,” Schaffer added. “It was such a pillar on this corner that had been here for so long, so I really wanted to honor that heritage.”

Schaffer replaced the building’s flooring with sustainably harvested oak, but kept several original elements including its nearly floor-to ceiling windows, original wood ceiling and original beams, made of solid Douglas fir wood, that date back to sometime in the 1940s or ’50s. These elements create architectural warmth and interest, Schaffer said.

In their first few month of operations, Schaffer and Arias said they’re grateful for the community’s backing.

“The neighborhood has really shown up for us and have been so supportive. We’re delighted,” Schaffer said.

VIV Home & Goods is hosting a grand opening celebration Aug. 24 including food and raffle prizes.

The boutique is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., and Sunday from noon-5 p.m. It is closed Mondays.