Former Dayton Masonic Lodge to become gathering space for musicians and artists

Scott Beseler purchased the former Masonic Lodge in Dayton, Ky., almost five years ago. The 100-year-old building has been a de facto creative center for the past few years, but Beseler has a vision for it to become an official creative center for musicians and artists called The Lodge.

The building, which is where Walk The Moon wrote its new album, has two auditoriums. The first-floor auditorium will be an open space for art shows and photography studio rental, and the second-floor space will be home to Masonic Sounds, a recording studio where musicians can record studio sessions and live performances. The basement will have a lounge area and printing press for designing and creating band merchandise, album artwork, press kits and stage backdrops.

“The Lodge will be the ideal place for bands that are getting ready to head off on tour or just looking for a more efficient way to expedite all that they need to be successful,” says Beseler, who serves as Soapbox’s Managing Photographer.

The Lodge will have a number of other amenities, including yoga classes, catered meals, a personal trainer, laundry, secure parking and a few other concierge services.

Beseler is working on a membership program for participating artists. They would have access to sound engineers, photographers, graphic artists and musicians — everything they need to create their finished products. In turn, The Lodge will also be a hub for freelancers to connect with clients.

“I want this to be a place for the city to be able to come together and enjoy the arts,” Beseler says. “We will also be incorporating programming that will be available to the community, such as performances, lectures and classes.”

The project was recently approved by Dayton officials for zoning use and now will go through building inspections. The Lodge will officially open once it’s compliant with building codes.