The Lumberjack cafe in Camberwell has suffered a break in and had its front window smashed just hours after its grand opening.

Earlier this month, the Lumberjack, located in the heart of Camberwell, had its front window smashed the day after opening to the public. The following day someone broke into the cafe through a different window, taking important tools for the finishing of the brand new space as well as the workers tips. “We have no idea what happened. I got in that morning and the window was smashed,” said one worker. It is unknown as to whether these crimes were related.

Lumberjack is part of the London Reclaimed youth employment charity, working with 16-25 year olds based in South East London. London Reclaimed specialise in high quality bespoke furniture made from reclaimed timber and have a workshop on the floor below Lumberjack which unfortunately has also been targeted and broken into numerous times.

The business/ charity responded to the crimes by launching a crowd funder in the hope that the local community would help them to raise the funds to install new security equipment including shutters and security alarms. Lumberjack’s plea was hugely successful and helped raise over £8000.

This quirky coffee shop is just another part of the art – led regeneration of Camberwell that has occurred in recent years. As well as new coffee shops and restaurants opening on every corner, the world renowned Camberwell College of Arts is set to undergo a £62 million facelift. Plans are set to transform the outdated concrete building with a new glass front and public courtyard. Additionally, new UAL accommodation is set to be built, enhancing the student presence and campus feel to the area.

Lumberjack won’t be the only new, arty business to open in Camberwell while the regeneration continues.