Benefits of workspace cohabitation shine in Byron

THE Social Futures Byron CoLab on Arakwal Country is thriving in its first few months after opening on the site of the old Byron Hospital in October last year.

The precinct for community and commercial ventures has already leased 60 per cent of its floor plan. The café and deli Baloney’s opened on Tuesday, servicing tenants and visitors with quality coffee and New York-inspired offerings.

Five new organisations have joined the precinct across a broad spectrum of sectors.

Centre Manager Mikaela Hicks said the CoLab model was more than just a workspace.

“We attract and work with so many non-profits and social enterprises, there’s that chance to connect, collaborate, and even refer in many cases,” Hicks said.

“We encourage tenants to introduce themselves, make a cup of tea, come to events and make yourself a presence within the building.

The open plan work space area is fitted with office and kitchen facilities and workstations with screens and laptop connections. Photo: SUPPLIED

“Tell people about what you’re doing and about what you’re struggling with. And all those things can generate ideas.

“Byron’s such a creative community, and some fantastic connectors on site might say, ‘I’m not working on that, but let me hook you up with this person I know is working in that space’.

“It’s a great way to help solve business challenges and build a sense of camaraderie.

“Working solo or from home can sometimes get you into a bit of a rut, and it’s easy to get insulated without that social interaction.

“It’s hard to always be productive at home for various reasons,” Hicks said.

Collaborating and swapping ideas and having a professional space and facilities allow flexibility for casual subscribers of the co-working space.

Micro offices are fitted with workstations and available for tenants and subscribers to hold small meetings or when seeking a private space. Photo: SUPPLIED

Its features include open-plan co-working desks, micro-offices, and small and large meeting rooms with video conferencing systems.

Tenants and casual users can utilise central printing, scanning, and photocopying facilities, a communal kitchen and a landscaped undercover internal courtyard.

“Providing this as an option often leads to higher retention because you feel connected to something that’s larger than a home,” Hicks said.

“It can also help provide structure and maintain clarity of focus on your work when you need time without distractions.

“We are excited about the future as the space continues to build.”