Words: Kit Heathcock Images: Supplied
“Shared office space is not the future, it’s now,” says 23-year-old entrepreneur Ashleigh Meyers, who partnered with Aria Property Group to found Shared, a portfolio of shared Cape Town office spaces. Her Lower Bree Street space is already fully let. She tells us about the newest branch, Pier Place, which launched at the beginning of September.
How did your business start?
As a commercial property broker in the Cape Town CBD, I noticed the increased demand for fully-serviced shared office space that is flexible, fun and most importantly, affordable. I entered into negotiations with Aria Property Group who were looking to create an in-house co-working business and we started the joint venture. We have created an environment that nourishes a creative crew of tenants – from bloggers, event planners, creative agencies, tech/app start-ups, to entrepreneurs, subsidiary corporates, freelancers and more. Our spaces facilitate the flexible growth of small businesses while providing multiple networking opportunities, and we also operate futuristic rooftop and cafeteria venues to rent for media-use and functions.
Why did you choose this area?
Pier Place is in the heart of the Mother City on the Foreshore, a stone’s throw away from bustling Bree Street. Just an Uber away from the Waterfront and City Centre, the location provides easy access to highways, much sought-after parking bays within the building, and ample street parking for clients.
How did you find your premises?
Shared is a subsidiary of Aria Property Group, who own and operate the building. There was no question that we would choose Pier Place for our flagship branch.
Why are the premises ideally suited to your business?
The building has recently undergone a major rejuvenation and boasts modern finishes as well as vibey communal areas. It has incredible views of the city and benefits such as an in-house waterless car wash service and gym/shower facilities. Shared tenants can use futuristic meeting pods, the regenerated rooftop shipping container or the break-away boardroom table in the cafeteria. The flexible space encourages shared activities such as yoga on the rooftop, language-learning courses, gin trollies on the rooftop after work, or insightful breakfast talks.
Who are your neighbours?
Nedbank/Signatura’s Onyx, Amazon, Absa, ENS, Investec, Park Inn Radisson, Grand Parade Investments, Circa Hotel, The New Tulbagh Hotel, The Capetonian, Roggebaai Place, along with multiple retail spots and coffee shops.
What are the rental/sales prices like in this area?
Office rentals are around R150/m2, retail around R250/m2. Parking bays are roughly R1600/bay. Sale prices for commercial properties are roughly R20,000 per m2.
How many people visit your business each day?
Half our Pier Place offices are already let. Two boardrooms on site are available to rent to the general public, so we continuously have fresh faces visiting.
Do you have any expansion plans?
Absolutely.
Do you operate online as well?
Boardroom bookings are made via an easily accessible online calendar. We use WhatsApp for bookings for our in-house beauty express bar, and for food orders at the Pier Place Cafeteria.
What’s your most popular item?
Our private suites. Tenants love being able to maintain a level of professionalism and privacy while enjoying the benefits of a shared workspace.
Shared
082 574 6747
sharedofficespace.co.za
