Harkat Studios at Versova and Bombay Connect at Bandra are two co-working spaces, driven by the community spirit
With Mumbai becoming increasingly difficult in terms of mobility, many working professionals are now opting to work from a remote location. Moreover, the ‘office’ with its insipid white fluorescent lighting and closed-off cubicles seem to be doing more harm than good, especially to creatively-inclined professionals. Enter co-working spaces that allow creativity and networking to happen flawlessly. We explore two such spaces in the westcoast to tell you what they’re all about.
Harkat Studios, Versova
Started by Michaela Strobel and Karan Talwar earlier this year, Harkat Studios is primarily a film studio. The co-working space resulted out of a need to create a common working place for their associates—script writers, filmmakers, graphic designers, etc. who typically work on a freelance basis. So, apart from the usual elements like multiple plug points, Wi-Fi, printer/scanner, stationery and an unlimited supply of chai and coffee, served enthusiastically by the office boy, Ram, whom everyone is fond of, Harkat Studios offers a sanctuary in the midst of Mumbai. “When we were looking for a place, we knew we wanted something quiet but also with a space outside,” shares Strobel, referring to the greenery that surrounds the outer area of the studio, where one can simply carry their laptop and work in sync with nature. “We offer a group working table on a daily basis, but if you need your own desk, you can book it on a monthly basis, or you could simply lie on the couch and work from there,” says Strobel. Apart from work, Harkat also organises weekend events like pop-up restaurants and movie screenings.
Details: Harkat Studios, Bungalow #75, Aram Nagar II, Versova, Andheri (W). Email us@harkat.in or call 77180 30009.
Bombay Connect, Bandra
Started in 2009 by Pooja Warier and Richard Alderson, Bombay Connect has grown significantly with four more than four locations around Bandra. Aimed initially at social entrepreneurs, the space now caters to sectors like IT, finance, retail fashion, marketing and more. “Corporates also use our space, especially if a few team members need to work out of a different location or someone is coming to Mumbai for a couple of days and needs additional space,” shares Guncha Khare, Co-Director, Bombay Connect, “We’ve also had a manager-level professional set up his team here, and grow from a single person to a team of 7-8 people. So, we’re glad to be a part of their transitory phase.” And it’s not all serious work, as the space allows for networking, talks, workshops, film screenings and music to help you enjoy the work you do. There’s also a library, kitchen and a terrace in addition to the workspaces.
Details: Bombay Connect, United India, 4th Floor, Candelar Building, 26 St. John Baptist Road, Mt. Mary, Bandra (W). Email bombay.connect@unltdindia.org or call 022 3222 0475.
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 "The outer area at Harkat Studios, Versova")
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