The closure of Studio West 117 Fieldhouse, a mixed-use facility in the Lakewood-Cleveland area designed to serve the LGBTQ+ community, is set for December 28, 2025. Opened in October 2022, the venue quickly became a vibrant hub for diverse activities and services, fostering community engagement and support.
Cofounder Daniel Budish described the Fieldhouse as an “alternative entertainment mecca for Cleveland” during its launch. The facility boasted a rooftop patio, multiple restaurants and bars, an experimental kitchen, and a gymnasium. Its design aimed to create a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies, providing a space for social interaction and community building.
The announcement of its impending closure has elicited mixed emotions within the community. Many express gratitude for the positive contributions the Fieldhouse made, while others acknowledge the significant void it will leave. The organization has emphasized the ongoing need for supportive spaces for the LGBTQ+ community, stating, “While these circumstances are difficult, they do not diminish the impact this space has had or the ongoing need for places where LGBTQ+ people and allies can gather, create, and belong.”
Studio West 117 Fieldhouse played a pivotal role in the community, hosting over 70 community fairs and collaborating with more than 40 partner organizations. The facility provided a diverse range of events, including networking gatherings, community fundraisers, and free senior wellness programs. Notably, it served over 3,400 individuals through free community meals, underscoring its commitment to social support.
As the closure date approaches, discussions about the reasons behind the decision remain largely speculative. While the official statement did not detail specific factors, challenges such as financial sustainability and shifts in market dynamics are often at play in such ventures. The closure of the Fieldhouse raises important questions about the future of LGBTQ+ spaces in the region and the ongoing need for safe and inclusive environments.
The legacy of Studio West 117 Fieldhouse is one of fostering inclusivity and providing a sense of belonging. The impact of its closure will resonate beyond the physical space, influencing the local landscape of social support and community engagement. The commitment demonstrated by the staff and community supporters highlights the importance of providing resources for marginalized groups in a society where discrimination still exists.
Looking forward, the closure of the Fieldhouse serves as a call to action for community leaders and members to explore new initiatives that can continue its mission. The absence of such a dedicated space emphasizes the necessity of creating alternative venues to ensure that the values of acceptance and inclusion remain at the forefront.
As the LGBTQ+ community reflects on the journey of Studio West 117 Fieldhouse, it becomes clear that the memories, connections, and support fostered within its walls will endure. The commitment to uplifting this community remains paramount, and there is hope that new projects will emerge to carry forward the legacy of this important facility. The challenge now lies in finding innovative ways to sustain the spirit of inclusivity and support that Studio West embodied.
