We’re so pleased to introduce you to Soar Coworking in Tampa, FL! This former-spa offers many amenities, including a pond in the back (that might just have occasional alligators stopping by), a podcast room, multiple meeting and break rooms, and even sparkling chandeliers! We spoke with space owner Paula to learn more about this fantastic Florida space.

When did you open your coworking space and what enticed you to do so? 
July 2017 – I was excited about the concept and think it adds value to the life of work-from-home/café people.

Tell us about your space. How big is it? What kinds of amenities do you have? What sort of quirks make it special? 
4800 sq ft. – amenities are coffee, water, tea, mail service (business address), a podcast room, 4 meeting rooms, and staffed reception.  The space used to be a spa, and it has kept its spa-like feel (and smell).

What is your favorite thing about operating a coworking space? 
I love it that coworkers see the value we add, like cleaning and greeting guests. The biggest compliment we get is [in regards to] something we do that is super easy…we make lemon water daily, and people love it!

What has been the most surprising/unexpected thing about operating a coworking space?  
I wish I would have recognized the need for a training space – the largest meeting we can seat is 12. During our first few months, I was fielding requests for larger meetings frequently!

What’s your favorite story about one of your members?  
A driving school has an office here, and we all get excited when someone passes their drivers test!  It’s great to be a part of their joy.

What is your biggest piece of advice for someone wanting to open a space?  
Calculate your break-even time estimate, then add 18 months to it!