The Cubhouse in Greenwich: A Unique Retail and Play Space for Children in the Heart

Greenwich’s newest retail and play space for families held a special ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday. The event was just in time for The Cubhouse’s grand opening coming this week.

The business is the brainchild of Christine Han-Rutledge, who as a new mother in Greenwich, had tried out different kids classes, explored various kids play spaces and even taught baby and kids yoga classes in her backyard.

The Cubhouse is designed for families with children aged 0-5. Families can shop, play and learn in a beautiful space that is also developmentally enriching.

Expect a variety of classes, including baby & kids yoga, language enrichment and socialization classes, tummy time and milestone classes, art sensory classes and more.

All of the products for sale are organic and sustainably sourced, non-toxic and as earth-friendly as possible.

The event was attended by the Greenwich House delegation – Hector Arzeno, Rachel Khanna and Steve Meskers – as well as First Selectman Fred Camillo and former State Rep Livvy Floren.

Ms Han-Rutledge said the opening of The Cubhouse reflected a lifelong passion project.

“It’s like a dream coming true,” she said. “My hope for The Cubhouse is that it becomes a special and meaningful part of our Greenwich community.

Ready to cut the ribbon at The Cubhouse, Christine Han-Rutledge, as State Rep Steve Meskers (D-150), First Selectman Fred Camillo, State Rep Rachel Khanna (D-149) and State Rep Hector Arzeno (D-151) look on. June 15, 2024 Photo: Leslie Yager

At the Cubhouse ribbon cutting event, Clay Floren and his mother Livvy Floren, a former State Rep for district 149. June 15, 2024 Photo: Leslie Yager

Outside The Cubhouse, State Rep Hector Arzeno works with a young friend on his handshake as Andrew Elmets looks on. June 15, 2024 Photo: Leslie Yager

Children create art projects in a corner of The Cubhouse. June 15, 2024 Photo: Leslie Yager

State Rep Steve Meskers (D-150), State Rep Hector Arzeno (D-151), business owner Christine Han-Rutledge, State Rep Rachel Khanna (D-149) and First Selectman Fred Camillo at The Cubhouse. June 15, 2024 Photo: Leslie Yager

At The Cubhouse, products are organic, sustainably sourced, and designed to be long-lasting to pass down to siblings. June 15, 2024 Photo: Leslie Yager

At The Cubhouse, products are organic, sustainably sourced, and designed to be long-lasting to pass down to siblings. June 15, 2024 Photo: Leslie Yager

At The Cubhouse, products are organic, sustainably sourced, and designed to be long-lasting to pass down to siblings. June 15, 2024 Photo: Leslie Yager

Families singing along at The Cubhouse. June 15, 2024 Photo: Leslie Yager

The Cubhouse, set to open on June 17 with a week of fun filled events and partnerships, will offer in-store shopping and in store classes (book in advance). 

Just a few of the local business connections Ms Han-Rutledge has made for the opening week include Timo & Violet, Raphael’s Bakery, Classic Kids for a pop up photoshoot, and Greenwich Botanical Center for a nature and planting activity.

“She went to the edges of the earth to find organic and sustainably sourced products,” Clay Floren explained. “Everything is high quality. Everything will last a long time. Everything prioritizes children’s development and health.”

“There are no single use plastics – you can pass everything down from child to child,” he added.

State Rep Hector Arzeno and interior designer Emily Wolowitz at The Cubhouse. June15, 2024 Photo: Leslie Yager

With many people complimenting the wallpaper and paint colors, Emily Wolowitz, who designed the space with Ms Han-Rutledge, explained the choices.

“Christina had a clear vision for the space. She wanted parents to feel welcome and comfortable in the store, which is why the front of the store is a little more sophisticated, but yet still colorful and playful. And the back of the store, the main focus was really on the different learning toys she sourced from all over.”

Wolowitz described the lead color of the store as a timeless, dark celadon green.

“We wanted to create an atmosphere that was nurturing and reflected where we live – Greenwich is surrounded by greenery and nature. At the same time we also wanted it to be kid-friendly, so we didn’t do anything too fancy or over the top so kids would feel welcome.”

The space will also be available for birthday parties and special pop-up events.

The Cubhouse is located at 31 East Elm Street in downtown Greenwich.
Tel (203) 703-1884

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