Cotter’s new shipping container shopping plaza, known as Outside the Box, will hold its grand opening event on Saturday, Sept. 26, from noon to 2 p.m. The plaza, located at 132 Combs Avenue in the city's River District, features 10 fully leased suites and marks a significant step in revitalizing downtown Cotter.
Described as a “Grand Unboxing,” the occasion will include live music, food, drinks, vendor showcases, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, activities, and giveaways. The announcement was made by the project’s developer, Jason Nazarenko, a state legislator, business leader, and longtime Cotter resident.
Nazarenko first presented the concept to the Cotter City Council in January, envisioning a space for eateries, artisan shops, and other small businesses to cater to visitors and residents. He noted the growing demand for such attractions from visitors staying in Cotter’s short-term rentals, particularly fishing tourists and their families. The plaza was originally projected to open in late spring or early summer.
The businesses set to open in the new plaza are Momentum Coffee, Ozark Fork & Cork, White River Thrift & Gift, Rivertown Gallery, White River Sweet Station, Current & Co. Salon, Refined Clothier & Etc., Southern Rose Homestead, The Lunch Box, and The Trout Tank. The development offers 320-square-foot turnkey suites equipped with electricity, Wi-Fi, and climate control. Monthly rents previously ranged from $550 to $650.
“This project is about more than shipping containers,” Nazarenko said in a release. “It’s about creating opportunities. Outside the Box immediately gives multiple entrepreneurs the opportunity to bring their ideas to life in Cotter, while creating a destination that residents and visitors can enjoy.”
Designed by Kammi Nazarenko, the plaza utilizes a mix of 20-foot and 40-foot containers arranged in a quilt-like square pattern. The single-level design includes shared restrooms, outdoor seating, and a small stage for live performances. Unlike the nine units initially proposed, a tenth unit was added to the final plan.
While the project has been praised for its creative approach, it faced some local opposition earlier this year. Concerns surfaced about the aesthetics and compatibility of the containers within Cotter’s historic River District. City Councilman Joe Bass, whose property borders the development, voiced displeasure with its proximity. Other residents and council members were divided. However, Cotter Mayor Mac Caradine confirmed the project met all city building and zoning standards.
Kammi Nazarenko acknowledged initial skepticism, including her own, but emphasized the couple’s commitment to delivering something innovative for Cotter. “You’re actually part of history making for Cotter,” she told the City Council in January. In a statement, she added, “We wanted something unique that would catch people’s attention and give entrepreneurs a chance to become part of Cotter’s future.”
The development is situated in the Cotter River District, which the city designated as an entertainment district in 2024 to encourage tourism and business growth. Nazarenko has cited the success of similar container-based retail projects, such as the Black Box in Maine, as examples of how short-term leases in creative settings can help entrepreneurs launch businesses without committing to traditional long-term leases.
Nazarenko, an Army veteran and Cotter High School graduate, has returned to his hometown in recent years to invest in its growth. In addition to this project, his company, Potter Block Properties, operates short-term rentals and is planning a taproom and pizzeria in Cotter.
Residents and visitors are invited to attend the grand opening event on Sept. 26. Additional details are available at outsidetheboxcotter.com.