While this may be an unpopular and perhaps even rude assertion, there is an advantage to working in an office. Coworking spaces foster social interaction and productivity, especially when there is a shared sense of purpose among members. For some, working from home presents a new set of challenges or can even lead to resentment toward their former personal territory. But as the pendulum swings back and forth from pre-pandemic to post-pandemic work habits, it seems to be finding a balance where workers have the flexibility to change their schedules—and their sense of place. Brooklyn-based interior design firm New Design Project has its finger on the pulse with its expansion of The New Work Project, welcoming new spaces ELEVENTH and The Annex in Williamsburg.
Located next door to existing property TENTH, the original coworking space dating back to 2017, ELEVENTH builds on what the previous concept started with the addition of contrast to create a radical shift in atmosphere. Guests move through a daylit corridor from stark blacks, whites and cool greys to one bathed in cream for a variation of beige that’s far from bland.
The warm, neutral colour palette is complemented by a distinct earthy feel and plenty of opportunities to connect with nature. “There is an increasing focus on health and wellness in the workplace,” say Fanny Appis and James Davison, creative director and co-managing partner of New Project Group, respectively. “To support this, we have incorporated plants and other greenery, and installed oversized skylights to complement other sources of natural light and provide a strong connection to the outside world.” This central, direct-line volume provides most of the public space with varying degrees of private rooms distributed around the perimeter.
The gallery is located adjacent to eight dedicated outdoor stations set under a pair of polished nickel vertical chandeliers. Bronze glass privacy screens provide some privacy to each desk where members enjoy additional accessories such as a beautiful table lamp, comfortable chair and a mobile cabinet.
The light floods the lounge, where a series of elegant semi-circular booths gleam in dark brown velvet. They are accompanied by custom tables, rugs with comfortable cushions, and decorative lighting in polished nickel. The venerable, forum-like central space is framed by an arched wall with Eskayel wallpaper. Additionally, custom artwork by Abbes adds subtle touches of color to the room, set against decorative wall moldings.
Twelve private studios for teams of up to ten are equipped with custom floating desks, ergonomic work chairs, keyless locking bases, designer desk lamps, open shelving and built-in cabinets behind doors with smart locks. Additionally, all company signage displayed to identify rental rooms is printed using the same font and typeface to eliminate visual clutter from logos that might otherwise compete.
Continuing on, visitors will find three soundproofed and airy privacy booths, perfect for a quick call, focus on work or a break, as well as a central granite-topped drinks station. Bronze glass and curved shapes also feature strongly elsewhere in the trading corridors as well as on the boardroom walls, with stunning custom wallpaper from Designtex. Wishbone chairs sit alongside boardroom tables from The New Design Project, while circular wall-mounted mirrors reflect local textures.
Although physically separate from Buildings 10 and 11, The Annex adds to the cultural fabric shared by all the symbolic threads that run through the post-industrial building. It provides an event space for almost any occasion and comfortably accommodates up to 75 guests. The thoughtful interior features historic elements, 14-foot ceilings, exposed brick and oversized arches.
Coworking spaces have historically been synonymous with luxury and prestige, more appealing to exclusivity than to the actual service of the working community. But meaningful change is on the horizon. “We are part of a new breed of boutique-style neighborhood work clubs,” Abes and Davison add. “Our members value working in spaces that go beyond function, serving as extensions of their professional and personal brands.” “Unlike other coworking spaces that focus on maximizing private office space, we emphasize thoughtfully designed communal areas that inspire true creativity and collaboration.”
To learn more about The New Work Project and all of its spaces, visit thenewworkproject.com.
Photography by Will Ellis.
