We’d like to introduce you to Evolve Workplace in West Saint Paul, MN. We’ve really enjoyed working with Evolve and watching their community grow.
“It continues to impress me how much Dave and Brett have embraced the culture and community of coworking with Evolve Coworking. At every turn, Evolve has chosen to listen to the needs of their coworkers and support the growth of their members through the offerings and amenities of the coworking space.” –Josh Freed, Proximity CEO
We asked co-owner Dave Lundy a few questions about what it’s been like to open a coworking space and here’s what he had to say.
When did you open your coworking space?
Evolve Workplace officially opened November 15th, 2017. We acquired the building in 2016 and spent about a year building out the space.
Tell us about your space? How big is it? What kinds of amenities do you have?
Our space consists of private offices, multiple conference rooms for 6-300 and large open spaces broken up by group pods for an airy yet cozy feel. With over 26,000 sq. ft. of coworking space, we are one of the larger spaces in the Midwest! Our size allows us to provide unique spaces that may be customized to our members needs as well as fun breakout spaces, including a craft room, game room, podcasting booth, two kitchenettes and a 6,000 sq. ft. conditioned warehouse.
What is your favorite thing about operating a coworking space?
I love meeting new people and getting to know them – both professionally and personally. There are so many times that I connect with people that I doubt I would ever have met without Evolve!
What has been the most surprising/unexpected thing about operating a coworking space?
The most surprising/unexpected thing I have found is why people cowork and how they use our space. As the name implies, Evolve Workplace evolves to meet the ever changing needs of our members and community. That said, our members have held everything from children’s birthday parties to 200+ person conferences and they work both “normal” business hours as well as late into the night burning the midnight oil. And for unexpected, I would be remiss without mentioning our honorary member, Rachel the raccoon who stayed over one weekend – ;-).
What’s your favorite story of one of your members?
One of my favorite stories was a member who came in for our monthly Entrepreneur meet & greet happy hour. The member was strongly interested in going out on their own after years of working the corporate life, but had some understandable reservations. After dropping into Evolve for a couple day-sessions and getting to feel the culture and camaraderie only a coworking organization can provide, they felt empowered to take the leap! Its great to see the personal and business growth this member has achieved by trusting in themselves and their supporting coworking community.
What is your biggest piece of advice for someone wanting to open a space?
Get out in your community to gauge the interest and needs of the residents.Coworking is a growing trend, however focusing on what your specific community needs will give you initial direction. And relax, life is too short not to have fun!
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Keep up the great work, Evolve! We love watching what you’re doing.
For more info visit Evolve Workspace:
evolveworkplace.com
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Evolve Workspace is part of the Proximity Network so full-time members of any coworking space that is Powered by Proximity can use their Guest Pass to drop in to work at the space during regular business hours.