Sneinton Market’s MinorOak Coworking: A Hub for Connection

The rise of hybrid work has transformed the way many people approach their jobs, and at Sneinton Market’s MinorOak Coworking, this shift is evident. Since its opening in 2017, the space has become a vital community hub for freelancers and remote workers looking for connection amidst the isolation of home offices. Here, the atmosphere is filled with the sound of keyboards tapping, coffee brewing, and the low hum of conversation, all fostering a sense of belonging.

Self-employed artist Corrina Rothwell, who has worked from MinorOak for two years, emphasizes the importance of this connection. She states, “It literally keeps people sane a lot of the time. It’s so easy to get distracted at home with the washing up or the fridge calling your name.” Rothwell highlights the value of community, noting that casual interactions over coffee can significantly enhance the work experience.

MinorOak was founded and is operated by architect Deidre Miller, who designed the space to be both flexible and welcoming. Users can access the coworking area for as little as £2.50 an hour, which includes coffee, fruit, and monitors, or opt for a full day pass priced at £18. This affordability makes it an attractive alternative for those battling the loneliness often associated with remote work.

The coworking environment attracts a diverse group of individuals, including graphic designers, small business owners, and digital nomads. Cameron Nurse, a self-employed web developer, discovered MinorOak after graduating from the University of Nottingham. While many of his friends returned home, Nurse chose to stay in Nottingham to establish his business, which left him without a social network. He reflects, “During university, you’d have people around to bounce ideas off, to have a moan with, to celebrate the little things. Working from home, you miss that casual everyday support.”

At MinorOak, connections form organically without formal networking sessions. Catherine Heptinstall, an employee at JYSK, found the coworking space to be a necessary alternative following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her department decided to remain fully remote, making a shared environment essential for her productivity. The demand for such spaces has surged since the pandemic, as hybrid and remote work arrangements become the norm.

According to the mental health charity Mind, prolonged loneliness can increase the risk of anxiety and depression. For many, the return to traditional office settings is not feasible, making spaces like MinorOak crucial. Miller observes the positive changes in those who frequent the coworking space, noting, “You can tell people feel better being here. It’s not just about getting work done. It’s about being around others, and you can see people visibly brighten up after a morning here.”

MinorOak has cultivated a sense of community that extends beyond mere workspace. Many individuals find comfort in the daily rituals of shared space, from casual conversations to collaborating over coffee. Heptinstall describes this camaraderie, saying, “It’s wholesome stuff. You come in, you work, you chat, you have a biscuit, and then you go grab lunch from a local business. Everyone benefits.”

As hybrid work continues to shape the future of employment, the importance of community and connection cannot be overstated. MinorOak stands as a testament to the power of coworking spaces, reminding individuals that work can be a shared experience. Here, amidst the bustle of Sneinton Market, the essence of community thrives, proving that the best work often happens together.