Client: Gadsden-Etowah County Industrial Development Authority (IDA), Alabama
Challenge: Creating a dynamic and inspiring workspace to foster connections, innovation, and business growth in a newly developed coworking space.
David Hooks, Executive Director of the Gadsden-Etowah County IDA, is at the forefront of cultivating interest from new industries. With the approval from the City of Gadsden, the IDA undertook the development of 7,000 sq ft of previously underutilised space at The Venue at Coosa Landing. This new space, dubbed Venue2, includes eight dedicated offices and a coworking area designed to encourage collaboration and innovation.
Inspired by the use of Nook pods at "The Forge," a coworking site in Birmingham, Alabama, Hooks and his team decided to integrate Nook Huddles into Venue2. These pods were chosen to offer a comfortable and inspiring environment for focused work and meetings, making them a perfect addition to the collaborative space.
The Venue2 coworking space, capable of accommodating around 20 people, now features three vibrant Nook Huddles. These pods are designed for two people, providing a semi-private space that is ideal for meetings or independent work. The Nook Huddles are fully customisable and are upholstered in bright, cheerful colours—red, bright blue, and lime green—which match a modern rendering of Albert Einstein, a keepsake from Hooks' previous role at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
These colourful and inviting pods are more than just functional furniture; they contribute to the dynamic energy of the space. The Nook Huddles help soften sounds, providing a quiet refuge in the busy coworking area. This setup allows users to feel separate enough to concentrate while still being part of the larger, vibrant community. The flexibility of the pods also means they can be easily moved to suit different needs.
Venue2 is set to open for coworking in early Fall 2023, with memberships available for those interested in using the space. Unlike traditional desk rentals, the membership model offers flexibility, allowing members to use the space as needed. This approach fosters a dynamic environment, strengthening the community through its diverse and evolving membership.
The IDA has much to celebrate, particularly their success in attracting the Ultra-Safe Nuclear Corporation (USNC) to Gadsden. USNC plans to build an MMR Assembly Plant in the area, a project expected to create several hundred jobs for local residents. The decision followed a comprehensive search across 16 states, with the Gadsden-Etowah IDA playing a pivotal role in securing this partnership. David Hooks was specifically acknowledged for his instrumental role in the process, showcasing the effectiveness of the IDA’s efforts and the potential of the newly developed Venue2.
The Gadsden-Etowah County IDA's innovative use of Nook pods in Venue2 demonstrates the power of thoughtful, neuroinclusive design in creating spaces that inspire and support their users. By providing a comfortable and flexible work environment, the IDA is fostering a community of innovation and growth. As Venue2 prepares to open, the vibrant energy and clear vision of Hooks and his team are set to make a significant impact on the local economy and beyond.