DEBUT feature: London's alternative work spaces
The main staircase at Canada Water Library
The DEBUT feature - London’s unusual work spaces
If you’re reading this, you’re a creative. You love great art and music and you crave great experiences. DEBUT is all about encountering something truly special, and we think that should extend to when you’re in the middle of the working week, too.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, you’re working on a project, or you just want to change up your surroundings, we’ve compiled a list of some great locations around the city to help you have your best work day yet.
…And the best part? They’re all either free, or the price of a cup of coffee!
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Canada Water Library
Where is it?
The docks at Canada Water (Jubilee Line, Overground), now home to a pretty new set of developments. The most exciting thing about this area is that it’s constantly evolving. Every journey here, you’ll see something new happening.
Canada Water Library offers modern, well-lit spaces in an accessible building
...and the decor?
This striking, modern building offers space and light while still providing study spaces that feel fairly private - you won’t feel overlooked at all.
…Plus, a big spiral staircase never fails to bring a sense of occasion.
Is there coffee?
It’s a local authority library, so there’s no chance of a latte at your desk - but for a change of scene, there’s a great cafe in the foyer, and plenty of eateries around the docks. Why not have an explore before coming to one of our Brunel Museum Concerts? We’re just down the road!
Cellar at Kindred
More like a way of life than just a members club. Most of the spaces are for members only, but its cafe space, Cellar, is open to the public.
Where is it?
Just outside Hammersmith station (District, Piccadilly), in Bradmore Square. Hammersmith is a bustling business district, but once you’re inside, Kindred feels like a haven.
…Kindred has a membership scheme, quiz nights, amazing gigs, and tailored events and lectures for professionals.
Kindred has beautiful indoor spaces, and offers some of its events to non-members - it’s a great chance to have a sneak peak.
...how does it feel?
Like an adventure. Kindred has this grand sense of occasion, but it’s also so homely - I genuinely don’t know how they manage it.
The menu?
Great wine, and fabulous cocktails - and hot drinks too, if you’re being good. Everything here looks fabulous and makes you feel a little bit important. The vegetarian platter is a firm favourite.
The Omnibus Theatre is in the heart of Clapham Old Town.
The Cafe Bar, Omnibus Theatre
If you’re a theatre person, being around theatre brings you life. Why not bring theatre to your work day too?
Where is it?
Overlooking Clapham Common (Northern Line), on the north side. Clapham has some great dogs, and you’ll see them all from your window perch.
On the inside?
Speaking of dogs, this is today’s dog-friendly choice. The space is a former library, converted into a multi-arts space - it’s mostly quiet in the daytime, but there’s always something exciting going on in one of the building’s spaces.
Facilities
These guys know that so many people work from home now - they provide good WiFi, loads of sockets, and if it’s sunny, there’s a garden space overlooking the Common.
The menu?
Like a theatre bar, but without the theatre prices, plus great food including freshly baked pastries - if you’re here in the morning you’ll catch that homely baking smell.
Something missing?
We’d love to hear about your favourite spaces - tag us online @DEBUTclassical and share your favourite places to work, read, or meet.
Part of our Summer in the City series
Experience classical music with DEBUT
Don’t miss a beat - take a look at what’s on this summer: