Summary:
Elizabeth Giles created a Facebook group for remote workers in Sidney.
Eclective, Sidney's first coworking space, opened on September 9.
Lauren Poyntz envisioned Eclective as a community hub for remote work.
The space includes a kitchen, fitness studio, board rooms, and more.
Members enjoy social connections and increased productivity.
Building a Community
The coworking space in Sidney has successfully fostered a community for individuals looking to connect both personally and professionally. Elizabeth Giles, who works from a coworking space on Beacon Avenue, shares her experience connecting with colleagues nearly 8,000 miles away in Sydney, Australia.
The Challenge of Remote Work
Giles admits that working for a company with office hours 18 hours ahead can be isolating and challenging for productivity. This motivated her to create the Remote Workers – Peninsula and Gulf Islands Facebook group, aiming to connect remote workers, share resources, and build friendships.
A Physical Space for Connection
Giles longed for a physical workspace with better Wi-Fi and found Eclective, Sidney’s first coworking space, which opened on September 9. Formerly a restaurant, Eclective has transformed into a vibrant hub for remote workers, emphasizing community and connectivity.
The Vision Behind Eclective
Lauren Poyntz, the founder of Eclective, spent three years planning the space. She aimed to create a welcoming environment that supports both personal and professional growth, especially for those working from home with young families.
A Welcoming Environment
Eclective is designed to be a comfortable space for productivity, complete with a kitchen, fitness studio, board rooms, and phone booths. The space allows members to connect over coffee and share experiences, enhancing their remote work journey.
Embracing the Remote Work Culture
Since its opening, Eclective has attracted 12 regular members and many walk-ins, fulfilling a need for a coworking space in Sidney. As one regular stated, it’s a relief to have a local option instead of traveling to Victoria for a workspace.
Member Experiences
Members like Ria Stroppa appreciate the balance between working from home and the social atmosphere at Eclective. Another member, Glen Doucette, enjoys the convenience of having his office just an eight-second commute from his hotel.
Eclective truly embodies a perfect community for remote workers, providing a space where connection and productivity thrive.
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