18 July 2021

A new style of hot-desking in Hackney

Demand for flexible workspace post-pandemic prompts a new style of hot-desking in Hackney.

Over the past 12 months, there has been a dramatic increase in enquiries for memberships at the creative hub De Beauvoir Block - “The Block” - leading to owners at the Benyon Estate investing in new co-working and hot-desking space fit for a post-pandemic world.  

Split over two units in the refurbished former Edwardian print-works, the new space can comfortably accommodate up to 50 people. Workspaces include booths and standing desks with meeting pods and phone booths, all carefully arranged to ensure a healthy working environment. There are also break-out areas, a meeting suite, a printing station, communal kitchen, toilets, and shower rooms.

In Photos: Dedicated Membership, Studio Membership

The range of membership options offer different levels of access, from café membership with access to communal areas, to the most exclusive dedicated membership with an allocated desk and secure access 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In addition, there is a fully furnished meeting room open for all members to book.

The Block is already home to an array of thriving businesses, including the headquarters for Alexa Chung’s eponymous fashion label; the production, merchandising, e-commerce, and operations of contemporary womenswear designer Markus Lupfer; and BAFTA-nominated animation studio The Line, whose clients include Gucci, Ubisoft, Virgin Media, and Doritos.

Benyon Estate Manager, Edward Benyon, said: “There is clearly a very healthy appetite among many businesses to get back to an office environment where they can meet other like-minded colleagues to share ideas and collaborate.

“Location flexible working is shaping the new office setup and The Block is providing local businesses, creative entrepreneurs and start-up organisations with a range of options to provide a vibrant and inspirational space, but also with the necessary privacy to focus and feel safe.”

Refurbishment work began in February 2021. Architects Atelier Charnaux, working with contractors Sullivan Brothers Construction Ltd, have included design features such as exposed beams and brickwork in the traditional yellow London stock, inspired by The Block’s Edwardian origins. This contrasts with fresh colour accents and stylish fittings and furnishings to create a contemporary feel throughout.

The original redevelopment of The Block began in 2016, almost 100 years after the construction of the original Edwardian terrace. The building was officially opened by Meg Hillier MP in July 2017.

For more information, visit www.debeauvoirblock.com.

In Photos: 1-4 Dedicated Membership, 5-7 Studio Membership

All photos copyright: De Beauvoir Block / The Benyon Estate