By Jessica Dillon
Starling Cards & Comics has moved into a new Uptown Martinsville location, bringing an expanded retail and gaming space along with new housing options above and below the store.
The store held a soft opening July 1, followed by a ribbon cutting on July 8 at its new location at 18 Church St. E.
Owner Pres Garrett said the move fulfills a long-held goal of creating a dedicated gaming and event space.
“I’ve had my eye on the McCullum Farrell building since I first dreamt of opening my own gaming and event space. Today, that dream has become a reality,” Garrett said.
Garrett said the move was about more than a new storefront.
“Our move to Uptown has always been about more than just a new address. It has been about creating a fun, clean and welcoming place where people can gather a safe third space for anyone who is a nerd at heart. To our incredible community of players, collectors, creators and friends, this space is for you,” he said.
The project took nearly two years to complete. The building was preserved while undergoing extensive renovations to create a new space while maintaining the character of the former storefront.
Garrett said his brother, Phil Garrett, served as project manager throughout the renovation.
“His leadership, problem-solving and a willingness to be boots on the ground every step of the way has been absolutely indispensable and fulfilling,” Garrett said. “I couldn’t have done this without you. To my wife, Olivia, and our children, thank you for your patience, encouragement and unwavering support throughout this journey.”
Phil Garrett said renovating the century-old building required a team willing to commit to the project’s vision.
“Dreams don’t just happen hoping Harry Potter shows up and waves the wand and things just magically happen, right? When you’re dealing with a 100-year-old building that truly needs to be gutted and remodeled, you need good people willing to see that vision all the way through,” he said.
One feature the store is especially proud of is its elevator, which improves accessibility throughout the building.
“How many comic bookstores do you know that have an elevator? Some pretty nice additions here. But if you saw what we started with when we were handed the keys, you will know that this extensive list of companies and the people involved behind them were very talented, professional, communicative and caring,” Phil Garrett said.
“A lot of hands made it happen, and for that, I will be eternally grateful,” he said.
The store features collectibles including Pokémon items, comics and tabletop games. It is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and from noon to 7 p.m. Sundays. Special event hours may vary.
Upcoming events can be found on the store’s Facebook page or at the physical location.
