As Frankston, Victoria’s first and only coworking community focused on trade businesses, 4KitsonCo. offers equipment and inventory storage and onsite concierge services along with shared workspace and meeting rooms. General Manager Joanna Baker shares with us more about her unique coworking model and reminds us why we’re all lucky to be part of this industry.
Why did you decide to open a coworking space?
Coworking is the zeitgeist right now. We have four coworking spaces in Frankston and I loved the idea, so when I needed more space, I went looking around. None of them was quite right and I thought, how about I start my own? What I particularly like in this industry is that competitors are actually friends. We all have similar motivation to nurture a community, but we are all doing something a bit different so we share ideas. It’s really collaborative and supportive. Every coworking space owner I’ve met tends to be awesome.
Tell us about your space. What kinds of amenities does it have? What makes it unique?
4KitsonCo. is a trade hub designed for people who have stuff. We have secure storage and van access as well as a receiving bay for deliveries. It’s ideal for tradies who spend most of their time on the road and are living out of their garages. But it brings in all the great aspects of coworking, like collaborative space, coffee and community.
What is your favorite thing about operating a coworking space?
I’m delighted so far that we’ve created a great vibe. Everyone wants to chat by the coffee machine and I look forward to coming to the office each day. Even our cleaner loves hanging out here.
What’s your favorite story about one of your members?
Dale was our very first member and joined while we were still building (at a reduced rate of course). He suffered through our plumbing dramas and patiently waited for fridges to be installed. We had a great laugh and he made it his own. He’s definitely cowork material!
What has been the most surprising or unexpected thing about operating a coworking space?
So far I’ve been pleased with how respectful of the space everyone has been. They’ve been looking to me for guidance about policies, cleaning up after themselves and generally being a great little cooperative.
What advice would you offer to someone wanting to open a coworking space?
Have plenty of energy and train up someone to support you ASAP. Getting all the lights and music on, thinking every day about events and connections does take focus. And have plenty of cash, too! My members drink a lot of coffee.
