In celebration of Bond Collective’s Spring Wellness Series, we are proud to present: Health & Wellness in the Workplace. Bond Collective will be celebrating all things wellness in March and April, so keep an eye out for lunchtime massages, free drop-in fitness classes, stress reduction workshops, wellness discounts and more!

Living and working in New York brings a lot of questions and stressors on the mission of making it in the city. Am I doing enough? Am I succeeding? Am I contributing to the success of my team? It’s easy to let noise run you down and keep you from working at peak productivity. It’s also easy to compare yourself against your competitor and feel like you’re not doing enough.

The mind is the most powerful tool you have – it’s a part of you, what you think about, you bring out. Aligning your thoughts with positivity creates a foundation for you to live your best life. When you begin to doubt your strength: step back and dial in. Go forth and thrive!

One of the most important things you should do in a moment of stress or pressure is take a breath. Feel the oxygen in your lungs nourish your body, feel the spark of brisk cold air igniting the passion in your soul. After you’ve taken a deep breath and are in a good place, try following the below suggestions to help create a more relaxed environment for you in the workplace.
 

Mindfulness at lunch time

Our culture errs on the side of “nah” when it comes to lunch. Take a break, if only for 10 minutes, and replenish your body. Take a banana break, some apple time, treat yourself to some pizza because you deserve it. Whatever you do, fuel your body to keep your hustle going strong.

Follow your bliss.
 

1, 2, 3, breathe

Clients from hell, looming deadlines, your favorite food cart running out of hot sauce. Don’t forget to breathe. Our breath is our automatic metronome, the soul twin of our heart beat. Don’t forget to clock into it. Are you breathing shallow? Are you feeling panicked? Take a moment and center yourself. I invite you to take a quick break to align your mind and center your body. Yes! A 3-minute break right now.

Step away from your desk, close your eyes, put one hand on your belly and one over your heart. Breathe deeply and feel your stomach rise with your inhale and exhale deeply and feel your stomach contract. During this exercise, let your thoughts, insecurities, and anxieties fall away. Focus on your breath. Think, “Now, I am inhaling. Now, I am exhaling.” Done? Good.

We know you’re getting from point A to point B, the universe knows you’re getting from point A to point B, the universe wants to get you from point A to point B, but it’s about the journey. How are you allowing yourself to get from where you are, to where you are going? Are you breathing? Are you deepening the relationship you have with yourself?

Listen to your body.
 

Balance

Fun Fact: did you know the abbreviation for a pound – “lb” – alludes to the Libra scales in our sky? Are you balancing your work hustle with the people you love? Are you throwing yourself fully into your work – we love the hustle by the way – and shirking on some family dinner time, phone chats with your bestie, or maybe just coming home drained? Remember to recharge your batteries – proper rest is the key to unlocking your full strength. Take what you need to perform your best.

Tune in.
 

Feng Shui’d Out

Is your office space a-clutter? Can’t find your favorite pen amongst all your favorite pens? We get distracted by the incoming mail, packages, deliveries. Even your desk space has a business card or 7 that don’t need to take up that prime real estate. Take a moment and zen out your desk. It’s your space for a reason – drop a succulent on it.

Make it yours.
 

Health is Wealth

Your body is a temple and your mind is the monk. Mental health encompasses our social, psychological, and emotional well-being – it affects how we feel and behave. As the foundation of physical health, it’s important to put yourself first and practice self-care. Carving out time to take care of yourself is the key to success.

The monk chops wood and carries water. May your rivers flow with healing and your trees grow with love.

About the Author:

By Tyler Pham, Expansion Representative, Bond Collective

Tyler likes romantic walks to the bodega, Viola Davis, and cabernet sauvignon. When he’s not hustling for his dreams at Bond Collective, Tyler is throwing down in the kitchen, reading a Robin Hobb novel, or teaching his seven fish about the benefits of hip-hop yoga.

Have any questions about what Bond Collective can offer your company?

We’d be more than happy to answer them and to offer you a personalized tour of any of our locations in the Financial District, Flatiron and Brooklyn.

Meet Dave Idell, the co-founder & CEO of Croissant, the app that let you access the best coworking spaces in your city. Bond Collective works closely with Croissant to allow freelancers, entrepreneurs and other hard-working folks alike to access the best spots in the city to get some work done. We sat down with Dave to find out a little bit more about him, why he decided to start Croissant and his take on the benefits of coworking (and we completely agree!)

So why the name Croissant?

It goes back to the days when we were working on our laptops out of various coffee shops around Manhattan. When we went to these places, we felt bad for sitting there all day, cracking away at our latest projects. This led to us buying coffees, croissants, and other things we didn’t need, as a way to justify our stay. It was after several months of doing this that an idea popped in our heads. We thought it would be great if we could book and pay for a single seat at one of these places. Not long after that, we decided to go for it! On the first day, we named it after our favorite pastry that we used to buy for removing that old laptop guilt.

What was it like when you were starting out?

We had no idea if our new project made sense to anyone besides us. We were only building something that we wish existed, and that we could use for ourselves. Nonetheless, we rushed to build a simple website. Then, an app, for “checking in” at one of our three early coworking space partners. It worked, and early adopters started to sign up and use it! We were like.. ok, I guess this is a thing now.. and we got back to work, further iterating on the software and adding more partners.

How have things changed since the beginning?

Things have been very exciting. We’ve grown to several thousand members, and over 100 spaces to choose from, in 5 cities and counting. There’s no shortage of coworking spaces to try these days. Product-wise, we’ve added a ton of cool stuff. You’ll now see community message boards for one. Also, there’s fine-grained amenity details and flexible seat booking. These features make it easier than ever to work, meet, and focus wherever you are in the city.

What do you think Coworking spaces offer that coffee shops don’t?

Coworking spaces are like coffee shops but better. They’ve got fast wifi, luxurious desks, comfy seats, and an inspiring work environment. That’s a rare combination for any coffee shop. All the while, coworking spaces still maintain great vibes, so you’re really not missing out on anything. The only thing I really miss for coffee shops though is a tasty, cinnamon-spiced chai latte.

What are some trends you’re seeing in the coworking market?

More. More of everything: more spaces, more chains of spaces, more technology, more freelancers, more startups, and more freedom of choice than ever before. As more people choose to work on what they are passionate about, go freelance, and work remotely, coworking will be more popular than ever.

How do you think coworking can help a person’s career?

We’ve seen a lot of people using coworking spaces as a way to look for a job, and not because of the networking aspect. They just want to get out of the house and get into a stimulating environment that keeps them focused and motivated to continue applying to jobs. We have had other members say that they’ve gotten their first clients from randomly talking to people at coworking spaces. I think there are so many benefits to coworking, and helping your career is one of them.

What do you do for fun when you’re not working on Croissant?

I’m a bit of a generalist so I’m always trying new things. You’ll often find me learning about a new cooking technique, and I’m planning a quick trip to Iceland next moth. I’m also big on hackathons. I like teaching friends how to code too, so they can also one day build their own dream product. I’m big on reading, and try to fit it in at the end of every day. We even started a book club within team Croissant as a way to grow together!

What’s next for Croissant in 2017?

Our goal for 2017 is to create new ways for members to connect with one another in meaningful ways. We don’t want to be like the average networking event you see out there. We found the best way to connect with a like-minded Croissanteer is to cowork together, and we plan to achieve this by adding features for it! Planning group coworking sessions of varying sizes is a big one. Also there will be office hours, and long-term seat booking. We’re super pumped to finally be turning these ideas into a reality. This year is going to be BIG!

Meet Dave.

Dave is a native New Yorker who has been writing code since he was 9. Dave is a 500 Startups and Startup Leadership Program alum, and you can find him drinking lattes at coworking spaces and cafes alike. Tweet him @daveometer!

Have any questions about what Bond Collective can offer your company?

We’d be more than happy to answer them and to offer you a personalized tour of any of our locations in the Financial District, Flatiron and Brooklyn.

Each Bond Collective location is set in a dynamic neighborhood with a vibrant culinary identity of its own. The Bond Collective Neighborhood Guide will feature some of the best restaurant, cafe, and bar options for our members to enjoy. Your local Community Team is always available to steer you in the right direction! At Bond Collective, we want you to love the space and neighborhood as much as we do, and as the old saying states, the best way to a person’s heart is through their stomach…

The following list includes the fancy, the quick and the delicious options of restaurants in the Flatiron/Madison Square Park area that are sure to impress no matter the scenario. In no particular order of tastiness…

1 – Harding’s

Serving upscale American Fare, Harding’s provides a warm, social environment with a reliable menu. While it’s excellent for a team lunch, it can sometimes have slow service. So save this for the days you want to have leisurely company bonding time!

 32 E 21st Street –  Visit Website

2 -Luke’s Lobster

With it’s flagship located in East Village, Luke’s now brings traceable sustainable seafood to guests across the country, including it’s newest outpost in bustling NoMad.

PS: Bond Collective members get 15% off catering services and a free beverage or side with meal purchase at any Luke’s NYC location.

5 West 25th Street – Visit Website

3 – Sarabeth’s

Known for its weekend brunch, Sarabeth’s shouldn’t soon be forgotten for the weekly lunch crowd as well! Its large, open interior welcomes guests and their fresh, locally sourced ingredients ensure a delightful meal experience every time. Save this for the picky eater in your work life, they’re sure to find at least one thing they love.

381 Park Avenue South – Visit Website

4 – Almond

Almond takes the best of French cuisine and serves it in a simultaneously casual and elegant atmosphere. Word on the street is that if you check in on Yelp, you get a free glass of bubbly…let us know if that’s true!

12 E 22nd Street – Visit Website

5 – Hillstone

Forget what you’ve heard about chain restaurants, because Hillstone breaks the mold! They have a menu that boasts sushi, salads and burgers, so you’ll be well fed for doing those grueling afternoon expenses. Pro Tip: The Brussel Sprouts are not to be missed!

378 Park Ave South – Visit Website

6 – Upland

A chic brasserie with California influences, Upland is ideal for a group with various lunch tastes. From Pasta to cheeseburgers, and pizzas to salads, this restaurant doesn’t have a bad item on the menu. Plus side is that while it’s blizzarding outside, you’ll feel like you’re chowing down in sunny LA.

345 Park Ave South – Visit Website

7 – Bocca

A quiet Italian eatery tucked away on sleepy 19th street, Bocca offers a 3 course lunch special of $17. That’s reasonable enough to treat yo-self AND your boss!

39 E 19th Street #1 – Visit Website

8 – Craft Bar

Craft Bar is fantastic because it’s more casual than its upscale counterpart, Craft, yet it still offers renowned chef Tom Colicchio’s famous meal options. A must-order to make all your coworkers who ordered the arugula salad jealous is the crispy, flavorful Chicken and Waffles! But honestly, the arugula salad is pretty epic also.

900 Broadway – Visit Website

9 – Florian

An upscale trattoria that puts a modern flair on classic Italian dishes, Florian has one of Flatiron’s most Instagrammable dishes. Luckily, it also happens to be one of the tastiest. We recommend that if you come here, you do not miss the Lobster Pizza! Apologies in advance for all of your coworkers that will now be taking pictures of food at lunch…

225 Park Avenue South – Visit Website

10 – Maialino

While you can get a generous Pre-Fixe lunch at Maialino for $48, you can also opt for flavor-packed Italian sandwiches that combine Salumi with Chili Tapenade and luxurious pasta dishes filled full with braised rabbit and olives. Our advice? Go back more than once to try it all.

Gramercy Park Hotel, 2 Lexington Ave – Visit Website

11 – Craft

Not to be confused with its more casual cousin down the block (if Craftbar is wearing jeans, Craft is in pressed khakis), Craft is Chef Tom Colicchio’s more elegant brainchild. This restaurant uses only the finest seasonal ingredients, so you know whatever is on your plate is fresh and prepared to perfection.  Recommended for the boss that is meeting an important business associate.

43 E 19th Street – Visit Website

12 – The Smith

If you’re meeting friends for lunch and want crispy fries on the side of your Arugula, Goat Cheese and Steak salad, The Smith is for you! Fancy enough to take reservations, but not so fancy that it requires a sports coat, The Smith has some of the best damn Mac ‘n Cheese in NYC. Make sure you try it out!

1150 Broadway – Visit Website

13 – Friend of a Farmer

It’s no surprise that this restaurant is always packed from open to close; its farm-to-table mentality ensures that each dish is fresh and tasty. You can’t go wrong by choosing the option of “Breakfast for Lunch” and go with a fluffy, veggie-stuffed omelet.

77 Irving Place # 1 – Visit Website

14 – Gramercy Farmer and the Fish

Situated on Park Avenue South, Gramercy Farmer & the Fish is the brand new counterpart to Purdy’s Farmer & The Fish in North Salem, NY. This restaurant takes a twist on the whole farm-to-table fad: it’s fish to table. With a raw bar including oysters, clams, shrimp & crab, you’ll feel like you’re spending your lunch break by the sea!

245 Park Avenue South – Visit Website

15 – Union Square Cafe

 Danny Meyer’s first restaurant is still one of the most iconic restaurants in New York City. It is a no-tipping establishment that is constantly bustling with native New Yorkers and new locals alike for its delicious fare. Try to make a reservation, because this is a can’t miss experience.

101 E 19th Street – Visit Website

16 – Pete’s Tavern

A no-frills vintage bar that has been opened since 1864, Pete’s Tavern has the absolute best burger in NYC. If you disagree with us, you’re wrong.  

Pete’s doesn’t take reservations, so plan accordingly!

129 E 18th Street  – Visit Website

17 – Dos Caminos

Meeting an old colleague and want to drink away any tension from that time you stole his stapler? Take him to Mexican haven Dos Caminos for a few margaritas! By the time you’re halfway through your Pineapple Guacamole, you guys will be best friends again.

373 Park Avenue South – Visit Website

18 – Sugarfish

If you can get into this brand new restaurant, you’re either working for a super hip digital magazine and need to get a story, or you’ve been camping out since 11am to get a table when they open. The freshest sushi from here to Florida, all of your trendy, food-blogging friends will be impressed with this choice. Make sure to get the “Trust Me” choice on the menu! Unfortunately, Sugarfish doesn’t take reservations – but the delicious sushi is worth the wait!

33 E 20th Street – Visit Website

19 – Aleo

Another Italian eatery takes the list, but we can’t help it, you just can’t say no to a $22 Pre-Fixe menu where you can stock up on all the carbs you want. Carbo-loading gives you energy, and that’s just what you’ll need for Jerry’s presentation on Coding Analytics at 4pm. While you’re at it, a glass of wine couldn’t hurt either.

7 W 20th Street #1 – Visit Website

20 – Little Beet Table

It’s your first day at the new office, and your coworkers ask you where you want to eat. You don’t want to suggest Shake Shack and scare them off by the ferocity at which you down cheese fries, but you know you’ll be hungry after just a small soup. The solution? Little Beet Table. Healthy, delicious and flavorful dishes that never disappoint. You’re welcome!

333 Park Avenue South  – Visit Website

21 – Mizu

Serving consistently delicious sushi with a few Thai options on the menu, Mizu is a fan favorite local sushi spot in Flatiron. Come here enough, and the owners make a point to recognize you. Can’t beat a place where everybody knows your name!

29 E 20th Street – Visit Website

22 – Barbounia

250 Park Avenue South – Visit Website

A hip mediterranean restaurant across the street from Gramercy Farmer & The Fish, Barbounia has excellent options to either share a $27 Israeli “Hafla” — starting with dips and salads and moving on to the heartier fishes and meats — or go solo on sandwiches and flatbreads that will briefly make you forget about your employee performance review at 3pm.

23 – ABC Kitchen

ABC Kitchen is the place where you take your colleagues visiting from out of town that want the “Real New York Experience.” It’s chic, organic and is constantly frequented by celebrities. The restaurant may be a little pricey, but trust us, it’s worth it. And you will never taste anything like their Crab Toast.

35 E 18th Street – Visit Website

24 – Osteria Del Principe

A couple steps away from the Flatiron building stands a restaurant that houses some of the best charcuterie in NYC. This is the perfect place to have that midday (necessary) glass of vino while shamelessly tossing back a block of cheese.

27 E 23rd Street – Visit Website

25 – Periyali

One of the most famous Greek restaurants in Manhattan for a reason, head straight with your work pals to Periyali for unreal authentic cuisine. With Charcoal Grilled Octopus and tastebud hugging Chicken Kebabs, Periyali is the ideal place to beat those Monday Blues.

35 W 20th Street – Visit Website

About the Author:

Lara Gould is the Assistant Community Manager at our Bond Flatiron location.

Lara made the move from North Carolina to New York immediately after high school, attending Syracuse University and graduating in 2015 with a major in Public Relations and minor in Psychology. With a passion for engaging with people, Lara took her interpersonal skills to the entertainment world where she spent time in reality television casting and production. After a couple years, she transitioned to Bond Collective, bringing her collaborative and outgoing nature to the Bond Flatiron community.

Have any questions about what Bond Collective can offer your company?

We’d be more than happy to answer them and to offer you a personalized tour of any of our locations in the Financial District, Flatiron and Brooklyn.

Written by Adam Pasulka, Bond Gowanus member

Some of NYC’s most innovative and ambitious entrepreneurs are moving to Gowanus, Brooklyn to do what they love. The neighborhood, long known for the charismatic and problematic Gowanus Canal, has seen quite a bit of change in the last few years. The post-industrial area now boasts an archery range, a rock climbing warehouse, dozens of bars and restaurants, and yes… even a Whole Foods. 

Add to that list Bond Collective, a stunning, 47,000-square-foot coworking hub that’s home to freelancers, start-ups, and well-established businesses. In addition to providing a flexible, all-inclusive work environment, Bond also offers awesome digital production tools, and services to match.

Whether you’re looking to film a quick how-to, a virtual walkthrough, or an eight episode web series, the Bond Gowanus Production Studio has you covered. Use your own equipment or partner up with Bond community members BIB Media for access to state-of-the-art gear, including cameras, lighting, and audio. And if you need a little more assistance, you can rely on BIB’s pre-to-post production expertise.

Ready to take your podcast to the next level? Are sub-par voiceovers jeopardizing good pitches? Get it done right in the Bond Gowanus Sound Studio, a full-service audio suite ideal for sound design, mixing, and recording. VO is captured locally or remotely via Source-Connect or ipDTL. Mix your audio on Pro Tools and access a library of over 200,000 sound effects. Plus all members receive a 10% discount on equipment rental and services, provided by Full English.

Finally, Spencer Starnes is a Brooklyn-based artist specializing in still-life, portrait, and editorial photography. He’s also the official In-House Photographer of Bond Gowanus. Get Spencer’s exclusive member rate of $120 per hour, or keep things snappy with $20 headshots, available once per quarter to all members.

Bond Gowanus is home to killer creators, production pros, and all-around awesome people. Stop in any time for a private tour, and while you’re at it, take a peek of the media spaces. Need more motivation to make the move? How about a 3-eyed fish?

Both members and non-members can book. Please email gowanus@bondcollective.com to inquire about rates, services and equipment rentals.

Have any questions about what Bond Collective can offer your company?

We’d be more than happy to answer them and to offer you a personalized tour of any of our locations in the Financial District, Flatiron and Brooklyn.

By Sarah Manning, Bond Collective member since 2016

When they found me I was out cold, my head in the cat bed. My laptop cord was caught in my belt buckle and snaked around the leg of the couch, through the middle of a pile of books, and under a music stand lying on its side. No one had seen me for days, but that wasn’t at all unusual. After all, I worked from home.  If it wasn’t for the cats, I might have been there for weeks. They kindly called 911 an hour later when they got too hungry to wait for me to recover from my fall. Who knew that opposable thumbs aren’t required to use smartphones?

Now is the time when I have to tell you that none of that actually happened. And if you believed me, I guess I’m a better writer than I thought. But the important thing is it could have, had I not moved my copywriting business to the Bond Collective in September of last year.

I’m a saxophonist, composer, writer, and owner of CopyAnimal. I use the musical art of listening to amplify the story behind your message. And even though being a great copywriter means an inherent susceptibility to the seductive power of words, the “work from home” myth had lost its luster.

Furtively clutching my laptop in a coffeehouse just wouldn’t do either. Too many loud conversations. Too much bad music. An unspoken time limit enforced by a soul withering look from management.

The biggest illusion of work from home “freedom” is one I think New Yorkers are especially vulnerable to. Typing away in your garret or in a café corner, surrounded by people or the noise of people on the street below, is not the same as community.

When I officially became a member of the Bond Collective, I made an investment in my business that paid off almost immediately. September was my best month ever, in part because having an official space carved out for my business allowed me to focus in a way that writing on the couch did not..

I’m delighted to say that I also found the community I’ve been seeking. Some of that community is of the four-legged variety, with the canines of the Bond Collective providing a dose of happy dog to lighten the stress of a deadline. But I’ve also met lots of creative and interesting people, and some of them became my clients.

Working with other Bond Collective members offers me something many copywriters don’t get to see – the continuing story and impact of the work I do. I wrote the website copy for kindness.org as they launched their website in beta, and then to the world. My ongoing relationship with them means I can have a thoughtful, ever-evolving approach to their brand voice as they expand their reach and make it simple to choose kindness. I recently wrote my first editorial for Soundfly’s online magazine Flypaper, and also write occasional copy for the Bond Collective.

In December, I upgraded my membership to a dedicated desk, and am thrilled to have a place to call my own. I still work from the couch at home now and then and take early morning calls from my favorite chair, hoping I don’t look like I just woke up. But my desk with its carefully curated small plastic penguin, cork board and drafting lamp is here whenever I choose. And the plethora of greetings from my fellow coworkers when I come into the office makes me feel that I’m part of a true creative community.

About the Author:

Say hello to Sarah! You can find her at copyanimal.com.

Sarah Manning is a saxophonist, composer, writer and artist empathist. She fights for creative sustainability by building empathy between artist and fan through performing, writing and speaking. She has released four critically acclaimed albums and currently leads the band Underworld Alchemy with Briggan Krauss on guitar, Simon Jermyn on electric bass and Gerald Cleaver on drums. Her most recent release, Harmonious Creature (Posi-Tone 2014) received 4 stars in DownBeat Magazine and was chosen as a top ten jazz album of 2014 by the LA Times. In addition to a Fellowship in Composition from the MacDowell Colony in 2012, she has received grants from the Northampton Arts Council and the Puffin Foundation to support performance residencies that break down the barrier between artist and audience. Her musical career has been dedicated to finding an individual voice in the music, and she takes that approach as a writer by listening and amplifying the unique voices of her clients. Her December 2015 essay titled “The Pomplamoose Problem: Artists Can’t Survive as Saints and Martyrs”, went viral on social media and reached an audience of over one hundred thousand at her blog, www.artistempathy.com. She is most often found with a cat, a saxophone, or a coffee (and on a good day, all three at the same time).

Have any questions about what Bond Collective can offer your company?

We’d be more than happy to answer them and to offer you a personalized tour of any of our locations in the Financial District, Flatiron and Brooklyn.

Is it time to upgrade your office space? How do you create the best office space for your company that leads to productivity?  Fortunately there have been numerous design and science studies that have identified 8 factors that lead to an incredible office space:

THE LIGHTING

1. WINDOWS
Working in a space with windows that provide ventilation and natural light has proven to lead to more rested employees. The light exposure shows employees get more and better sleep.

2. AMBIENT LIGHT
Natural light has shown increased workplace performance and better sleep levels.  Moderate light levels have also shown increased levels of creativity. 

THE SPACE

3. NOISE CONTROL
Noise is a common distraction that prevents productivity.  Typical office noise pollution stems from phone calls, meetings and computer sounds.  At Bond Collective we have taken this into account with conference rooms and phone booths.

4. DEDICATED PERSONAL SPACE
Studies have shown that employees that are allowed to personalize their spaces are more productive.  Personalization comes in the form of personal photos, plants, desk organization and artwork.  Within our membership options, we offer dedicated desks for those that seek this type of option.

5. VARIETY OF SPACE
Workers need elements that disrupt the structure of the workplace that come in forms of common areas, open kitchens, semi-private spaces and private areas.  This helps them move between focused individual work, group work, and down time.

THE DECOR

6. PLANTS
Green plants scattered through the office has been said to increase happiness levels.  Bond Collective aims to have a variety of plants, succulents and floral arrangements throughout our office spaces.

7. POP OF COLOR
Color has a significant on the mental state.  Different colors promote certain moods, feelings and mental capacity. For example, blue is intellectually stimulating, green is calming, and yellow awakens our creativity.

8. ARTWORK
Art is considered to hold great calming, inspiring, and therapeutic capacity.

Luckily Bond Collective as already considered these factors in creating our shared office spaces. If you want to increase your productivity this year, consider one of our coworking spaces, dedicated desks or private offices.  You will be surrounded by extraordinary design that will take you to the next level.  Come see our gorgeous office spaces located at 60 Broad, 55 Broadway, Gowanus and Flatiron!

Sources: Northwestern University; American Academy of Sleep Medicine; Texas State University; San Marcos Nature Center; University of California, San Francisco; National Institute of Occupational Health; Journal of Environmental Psychology; Color Affects System, Angela Wright; University of Michigan; Psychology Today; 99U

Have any questions about what Bond Collective can offer your company?

We’d be more than happy to answer them and to offer you a personalized tour of any of our locations in the Financial District, Flatiron and Brooklyn.

By Anna Qu, Community Manager, Bond Collective Gowanus

Bond Collective Gowanus is a hub for film and media. Not only are we home to a number of production teams, we also have a growing relationships with scouts interested in the location for film shoots. We’ve been a part of web series, indie movies, commercials, and love getting involved in an industry that continuously strives to tell a better story. Check out this hilarious Secret commercial filmed in the lower level restroom of our Gowanus, Brooklyn office space!

If you would like to use one of the Bond Collective spaces for a shoot, please reach out directly to laura@bondcollective.com

Have any questions about what Bond Collective can offer your company?

We’d be more than happy to answer them and to offer you a personalized tour of any of our locations in the Financial District, Flatiron and Brooklyn.

by Sarah Weinreb, Bond Flatiron Member since 2014

Ah, the environment. We all know that we need to take care of our planet, but when it comes down to it, it can be so annoying to change habits. Especially when we don’t immediately see the impact that we are making by way of our waste and environmental inefficiencies.

As the founder of IMBY, an ethical fashion company committed to sustainability in the clothes we source and our practices overall, I have learned some tricks along the way. Here’s a day in the life of a typical Bond Collective member and some ideas of how you can reduce your waste and environmental footprint. I promise, none of them are that hard!

8am: COMMUTE TO WORK

Taking the subway or biking are the most environmentally friendly options. Plus, much faster than sitting in traffic in a cab.

9am: GIMME COFFEE

Coffee time, one of my favorites of the day! Swap out the paper cup for a mug. It’s a nicer drinking experience anyway.

Heading to your favorite coffee shop down the street? Bring a reusable coffee mug. Did you know that 20-30 billion paper cups are thrown away every year?! How disturbing is that.

11am: BIO BREAK

Heading to the bathroom? Enjoy! Use just one paper towel to dry your hands. It’s really all you need! And don’t forget to turn off the lights before you leave.

12:30pm: LUNCH TIME

Time for lunch and it’s always so hard to decide what to eat. Wherever you go, just say no… to a bag and cutlery. Unless you have several items that are hard to hold, most of the time we don’t need a bag to hold our sandwich when we walk a block back to the office. We also have real forks, knives, and spoons in the office, so snag what you need from the kitchen instead of using the dinky plastic ones. Bring from home? Heat your lunch up on a lovely glass plate instead of using paper. Plus, you’ll look classier.

1:30pm: TEAM MEETING

Your marketing team is meeting, and going over the new editorial calendar. Instead of printing out copies for every team member, what about using the TV screens in the conference rooms to digitally show the plan? You can email everyone copies after. Added bonus: less clutter on our desks. Please and thank you.

Want to get water for the team? Try a pitcher and glasses, not plastic cups.

3pm: TIME TO TIDY UP

It’s time to clean off your desk, and get rid of all that junk. Extra papers? Throw them in the recycling bin. Hint: it’s the blue one.

Another hint: Don’t put non-recycling in the recycling bin, it messes everything up!

5pm: HEADING OUT

When you’re leaving the office, make sure all your lights and lamps are turned off, and you are officially powered down for the evening. Bask in the glory of having an empty trash can and knowing you are making a difference. Then take the stairs down to enjoy some exercise and reduce power usage!

If you have one key takeaway, it should be to reduce your waste. Weather it’s a coffee cup or paper bag, printing or paper towels, using less, creating less trash will mean less junk in the landfills, and that’s good news. Plus, you get to enjoy using fancy cups and eating with real silverware, what a treat! What do you do to be more environmental at the office? Let me know!

About the Author:

Sara Weinreb is the Founder of IMBY, which curates capsule wardrobe essentials, helping busy, on-the-go women get dressed effortlessly with responsibly-made clothing. With a background in supporting hundreds of entrepreneurs in building businesses that make a positive impact, Sara launched IMBY as a frustrated consumer wanting to find a simple way to shop for a minimal wardrobe comprised of responsibly made clothing. With one foot in the tech scene and other in the ethical fashion space, Sara also consults to social entrepreneurs and small business owners, facilitates design thinking workshops, is co-founder of the Ethical Fashion Retailers Network, and serves as the entrepreneur in residence at AlleyWatch, the pulse of NYC’s startup and tech. 

Have any questions about what Bond Collective can offer your company?

We’d be more than happy to answer them and to offer you a personalized tour of any of our locations in the Financial District, Flatiron and Brooklyn.

By Laura Matte, Events & Partnerships Manager, Bond Collective

Partnerships often get overlooked as a staple for business growth and success. Business owners tend to focus on marketing, paid advertising and PR before dedicating time to build partnerships that could expand their network and drive growth. That’s not to say it will come quickly or easily. To develop a successful partnership, it takes a lot more than just a simple connection. It involves time, effort and creativity to build a relationship that lasts.

I’ve experienced this first hand when developing partnerships for Bond Collective. We work in an industry that has tons of stiff competition, so at times it was challenging to develop the appropriate assets and identify the right partners. Here I’ve created a short-list of tips & tricks for business owners, managers, and thought leaders on what I’ve learned along the way.

1.  IT TAKES WORK- HARD WORK, FROM BOTH SIDES

While doing outreach to prospective partners, it’s important that you identify companies you want to work with and who match your ambition and organizational needs. You might find a company that has great ideas on the outset, but simply does not have the resources to work with you on a project or event. In that case, you may decide to move on to someone who truly has the bandwidth to execute and who may be more mutually beneficial.

2.  WHEN IT COMES TO PARTNERSHIPS, YOU GET WHAT YOU PUT IN.

Both parties need to make a sincere effort, work together on building the relationship, track progress and brainstorm ways to make the partnership effective. After the fact, follow up and measurement are key. It’s important to know your wins and losses, and tailor the next campaign accordingly.

3. YOUR VISIONS FOR THE RELATIONSHIP ARE ALIGNED.

You have to ensure that you are both on the same page. This includes goal setting early on and a clear path to your desired deliverables, making sure you are both following it from start to finish.

4. YOU KNOW HOW TO ROLL WITH THE PUNCHES.

Did your activation get rained out? Did your partner pivot their business model? Understand that things happen and businesses often adapt and change. Just make sure that you are clear about these changes with each other. This brings me to my next point…

5.  ESTABLISH CLEAR COMMUNICATION FROM THE GET-GO.

There should be one point of contact or a small team that you liaise with on a regular basis- that’s it. Share relevant updates and improvements. Send each other checklists of deliverables. Allow access to different channels of communication in case of an emergency. And don’t be afraid to be direct (just be kind!)

6.  FINALLY, AS WITH ANY RELATIONSHIP, YOU NEED TRUST.

The definition of a partner is: a person who takes part in an undertaking with others, especially in a business or company with shared risks and profits. There can be a lot at stake when partnerships develop, but there is also a lot of upside. It’s imperative that you engage with a team that is trustworthy and that you both see a clear path to a successful future working together.

Have any questions about what Bond Collective can offer your company?

We’d be more than happy to answer them and to offer you a personalized tour of any of our locations in the Financial District, Flatiron and Brooklyn.

By Chrystina Orlando, Assistant Community Manager at Bond Collective, Gowanus

Working from a shared workspace is a beautiful thing. You have the benefit of changing scenery from your home and yet the quiet solitude to efficiently get your work done. However, if you are working from a shared office space alone or with a small group of people, you might feel a little lost in the shuffle. How do you find the delicate balance of working “alone” while building relationships with those around you? This article will offer you some advice on how to branch out and make lasting impressions at a coworking space like Bond Collective in New York City.

1) Introduce yourself.

This is a simple concept, but can sometimes be a total challenge. You might be afraid of disturbing others while they’re working with their headphones on, or you may think it’s too late to say hello if you’ve been seeing familiar faces in the office space for a while. Fear not, it’s never too late to formally introduce yourself. If you find yourself making eye contact with other coworkers, smile and say hello. A simple “Hey, I figured it was about time I introduce myself!” will suffice. An introduction and a smile will start a rapport that will lead to more and more conversation, a lunch buddy, or even a new business connection.

2) Utilize the office space.

Shared workspaces offer many different perks and amenities. If you have time to take a break, eat your lunch in a common seated area or go to a lounge area where you don’t usually work. For example, during the lunch hour, many coworking members socialize around the kitchen while making or heating up their lunch. Go to where the people are, and integrate yourself. When in doubt, start up a conversation by asking a fellow coworker where they like to get delivery in the area during lunchtime. Everyone loves talking about food. #Fact

3) Get involved!

One of the major benefits of working from the Bond Collective office spaces is the fact that we host events and happy hours. Even if you don’t know anyone else, show up to these events with a smile and with an eagerness to shake some hands (not to mention your business card!). I guarantee you, you are not the only person showing up alone. This is a great time to mingle, unwind, have a drink, enjoy some snacks, and learn more about the other members. If your schedule doesn’t allow staying at the coworking space past 5pm, we also offer events that happen during business hours that offer a free service, food or drinks. If you show up to these events regularly, you will definitely gain exposure to many more connections and opportunities. Some of which you probably never even cross paths with during your daily grind.

4) Get to know the staff.

Okay, I’m biased because I am a staff member at a Bond Collective office space, but I am speaking from experience! Staff members are friendly with all of our coworking members, and if we meet people who need to hire a service for something that you do (example: if you’re a photographer and we hear a member really needs a new headshot), we will definitely put your info in the right hands. You can also come to us if you are interested in new event ideas or need any extra assistance with branching out within the NY coworking community.

5) Get on Social Media.

Getting involved in the online community is a wonderful way to make connections that carry over into the real world. Following and tagging Bond Collective on social media will put you in a digital pool of your startups, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who are looking to branch out professionally and personally. Commenting on our shared office space official posts, creating your own posts with location tags, and searching for others who do the same will put your name, business, and brand out there.

Have any questions about what Bond Collective can offer your company?

We’d be more than happy to answer them and to offer you a personalized tour of any of our locations in the Financial District, Flatiron and Brooklyn.

COWORK|RS REDEFINES SHARED WORKSPACE WITH REBRAND TO BOND COLLECTIVE, CONTINUES GROWTH WITH EXECUTIVE HIRE

New name reflects member-centric, hospitality-driven approach and expansion to new markets; Droga5’s Judd Merkel tapped as COO to support expansion plans

NEW YORK, NY, January 17, 2017 – Premier hospitality-driven shared workspace, Cowork|rs, today announced that it is rebranding to Bond Collective, elevating the brand and sharpening its focus on a hospitality mindset that brings together high design, comfort and premium service for members. Since its founding in 2013, the shared workspace provider has seen growth in several categories including square footage, membership, and team size and has plans for continued growth and expansion in New York and additional U.S. markets in 2017. Between 2015 and 2016, Bond saw a growth of 400 per cent in in square footage while membership more than doubled and team size more than tripled.

“We are grateful to our members in multiple locations who have been with us from the very beginning and who have appreciated—and grown with—the special blend of premium space, community and service that will be at the core of the Bond Collective experience,” said Shlomo Silber, CEO, Bond Collective. “The updated name and direction are a conscious move to reflect our commitment to a flexible, hospitality-centric approach specifically designed to create a positive ecosystem built around tenant preferences.”

A growing footprint, exciting new tenants

The rebrand, effective immediately, comes on the heels of recent expansions in New York’s Financial District. The company has opened two sleek new work and event locations at 60 Broad Street and 55 Broadway. Each space encompasses an individual and thoughtfully curated aesthetic, highly customizable and designed with tenants’ specific needs in mind. The new spaces have already welcomed tenants such as Exo, Ferrero, and SLT.

“Coworkrs has been such a great environment for our fledgling team to grow and be productive. As a collective space, it’s the perfect atmosphere for us,” said Greg Sewitz Co-Founder of Exo. “They have been very helpful and flexible in accommodating our team with a space that fits our needs – in terms of budget and our professional requirements – and it doesn’t hurt that we can bring our dogs into the space and have Toby’s Estate coffee on tap!”

In addition, Bond Collective is slated to open in Brooklyn’s booming neighborhood, Bushwick, later this year, as the company actively explores additional markets nationwide.

Bolstered executive bench focused on growth

Bond Collective also recently welcomed Judd Merkel to the executive team as chief operating officer. As COO, Merkel will, among other things, oversee Bond Collective’s growth plans and day-to-day operations.  Merkel was a founding partner and Global CFO of Droga5, where over 9 years he helped build one of the most celebrated agencies of the 21st Century.

“Judd knows how to manage and expedite growth and he understands the value of a premium experience for entrepreneurial organizations,” said Silber. “As a key member of our team, Judd will be an advocate for our members, delivering a world-class experience, allowing them to focus on their core business.”

About Bond Collective

As traditional ways of working shift, demand for shared and co-working space is growing. Bond Collective delivers a hospitality-centric approach, with curated spaces and premium services that deliver brand equity for members that allow them to focus on their core business.  Bond members gain more than a workspace; they gain a turnkey solution and the benefits of a location with equity baked into the overall design aesthetic and work experience. Entrepreneurs, professionals and global businesses such as AlleyWatch, Soundfly, Exo, Ferrero and SLT use flexible work spaces from Bond to scale their operations. To learn more about Bond Collective visit www.bondcollective.com

Contact:

Carly Moore
Bond Collective
Carly@bondcollective.com
212-738-9581

Good Morning,

As a member of our beloved Coworkrs community, I wanted to personally share with you our exciting news. As of today, January 17th, we have rebranded the company and are now Bond Collective.

Since it’s inception in 2013, Coworkrs has become more than just coworking space, and we want our brand to be a reflection of that growth. While Coworkrs represents where we were, Bond Collective represents what we have become: a brand that is flexible, member-centric and hospitality driven, creating an environment for our members to thrive while working within our spaces. As our company continues to build momentum here in New York, and through nationwide expansion, you should expect increased premium offerings, including our new Concierge Service (initially rolling out at 60 Broad Street).

Aside from seeing and remembering a new name, nothing in your day-to-day operations will be impacted. As an early stage business ourselves, we’re so excited to have the opportunity to grow with all of our members. Our team is incredibly committed to continue to bring you the best experience at your workplace and we are thrilled to have you on this journey with us.

We hope this little surprise on your desk this morning will get you excited for a bright future with us. And don’t forget to ask your Community Manager today for your very own Bond Collective t-shirt!

Again, thanks for being apart of our growth. Welcome to Bond Collective!

Best,

Shlomo Silber

“The coworking boom continues in Philly, with the news that Bond Collective, a design-centric workspace company, will set up shop at the top of Suburban Station in spring 2018. Bond Collective is based out of New York, where it currently has five locations. It recently received $50 million to expand to 30 locations by 2020, and chose Philly as the first city for its expansion.”

— Curbed