Taking workspace cool to a whole new level
We’ve stumbled across London’s most unusual workspace.
Sunlight pours through the glass roof above a stunning central café Feest where most of the vegetables are grown in the owner’s allotment and plants hang everywhere. Offices and shared work space set over two levels are dotted around and there’s a wellbeing studio where workers and the public can practise yoga.
The Greenhouse is a huge former nursery (plants not children) and textile factory on Newington Green, which has been transformed into offices and co-working space. And it’s taking cool to a whole new level.
Latin American music plays in the background and the businesses have been allowed to make quirky transformations to their offices – one has fake grass on the floor, a swing hanging from the ceiling and a bar!
This centre and others in the Greenhouse group, are managed by Alex Ross, who was snapped up by the firm while working at its resident café Feest.
The Greenhouse is the latest business to join The Local Buyers Club, with 10% off the first three months for new workspace members. (Click here for info). We went along for a tour and a chat with Alex.
She said: “Everyone knows everyone here. My job is to get to know the businesses – to help them settle and meet others and that naturally means flagging up opportunities for companies to help one another. Part of the reason people love this space so much is because it’s so personable. We hold socials, we go out for drinks and many of the members have lunch together.”
While we’re talking a guy wanders past us with bare feet. Alex added: “This isn’t the sort of place where people naturally wear suits to work – it’s much more casual. We want people to come here and feel part of the community and relaxed and be able to work productively.”
It’s the perfect fit for Alex who seems to exude calm whilst getting things done.
The building, which was transformed into a work hub four years ago, is home to a range of companies including vinyl carvers, architects, publishers, a sparkling tea brand, smoothie-makers, commercial photographers and lots of freelancers.
Alex describes the café as its “crowning glory.” It’s open from 10am till 5pm and serves a wide variety of fresh homemade food including vegan options as well as one of East London’s best breakfasts. When we popped by the menu included smoked salmon on rye sourdough toast, dahl with garlic flatbread, roast pork with chard and kimchi and pasta carbonara. There are also daily specials and fresh-baked sourdough.
Café owner Liselotte Tork added: “We’re a little tucked away but we are open to the public - once people discover us they keep coming back. Everyone’s welcome here.”
The company behind The Greenhouse also has office space in Tottenham and Homerton. It’s owned by a group of friends and musicians. The Greenhouse offers desk space for small creative businesses on flexible monthly rolling contracts as well as lots of private office and studio space.
To find out more visit www.thegreenhouselondon.com
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We're on a mission to help you discover & support the best local & independent businesses.
We've negotiated discounts of up to 25% for our members at dozens of fantastic restaurants, shops, bars and businesses throughout North and East London. We help promote them and raise awareness of the advantages of shopping locally. We also organise and support community initiatives.
Join Local Buyers Club and, for just £12 per year, you'll be helping to support local business and you'll receive a discount card to use at any of the 100+ businesses listed on the site.
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Just some of the 100+ independent businesses offering discounts to our members:
