DeKALB | The Huka Corner is getting re-vamped and will get a new name this summer, under new ownership.

New owner and NIU alumnus Mohammed Labadi said the location, 811 W. Lincoln Highway, has a lot of potential and he wanted to come back and “pick the location up.”

“I wanted to make the place a true hookah lounge,” Labadi said. “Right now, it’s more of a college hookah lounge. I want to bring the tradition of hookah with it.”

Hookah has been a custom for hundreds of years, Labadi said. His brother has been in the business for over 30 years overseas.

Labadi is also the owner of Hookah Works, a wholesale distributor of hookah supplies in the Chicago area.

Some changes are on the way for the Huka Corner, including new furniture, wireless Internet, TVs, an expanded display section and possibly local art.

Labadi said that along with a face-lift, the store will also receive a new name. He is currently seeking feedback for names. If the suggested name is used, the submitter will receive a free hookah so they can smoke at home.

“Next summer, this will be a new place,” Labadi said. “We want [the store] to be built by our customers.”

The store will offer more than 40 flavors of tea, a selection of coffee and cappuccinos, and unique imported drinks and chocolate, Labadi said. He is also looking into offering finger foods, but has to clear it with the health department. He said they allow food to be brought in by customers.

Labadi said he wants to make the store a local meeting place and wants to focus on attracting local residents and students.

“Hookah is social gathering,” Labadi said.

Labadi said they are looking to promote office parties, birthday parties and meetings.

The Huka Corner is offering free samples of hookah from 4 to 8 p.m. Sundays in April.