PUBLISHED November 26th, 2019 10:00 am | UPDATED November 27th, 2019 11:10 am
Maybe it’s the full-length windows, which open onto Robertson Quay‘s lush greenery. Maybe it’s the dreamy colour palette, which swathes you in a sanctum of pinks and whites as you step through. Whatever it is, there’s something calming in the air at Gather Cowork, our city’s latest and prettiest co-working space. Launched by Cathay Organisation at 22 Martin Road, Gather is out to redefine wellness in the workplace – starting with the decor. We spent a month there, and here’s our take.
Design
Housed over three floors and 12,000 sq ft, Gather is small as far as Singapore co-working spaces go, yet manages to feel refreshingly spacious. Step in and its light, serene feel might seem uncannily familiar – its aesthetic was crafted by Takenouchi Webb, the interior design wizards behind chic eateries like Esora and Straits Clan.
Bucking the trend of buzzy, high-energy hubs, Gather offers a softer space that shapes a more relaxed workplace culture. With its high ceilings and soothing palette of rose tones and light wood, you can be sure there’s nothing brisk or bustling about this space, even when thronged with laptop-tappers. The communal areas, in particular, have the feel of a friend’s plush home – think cushy leather sofas perfect for laidback meetings, and lovely terrazzo countertops to, well, gather for team drinks.
Facilities
In keeping with this intimate vibe, Gather has done away with hot-desking. Instead, its 12 light-drenched offices are curated around privacy – elegant private offices line level three (accommodating up to eight people), while levels four and five feature spacious bespoke suites where teams of up to 40 can customize their layouts. This makes it less suitable for freelancing folks, but good news for teams who need quiet to get in the zone.
The pantries come fully loaded with an arsenal of supplies to keep you perky – Nespresso machine, coffee capsules and tea, and for those eating in, microwaves and a handy array of cutlery. But sometimes you need something stiffer, and that’s when you hit up the well-stocked bar on level three for wines and whiskies (telling your boss is optional).
Amenities highlights include a sleek row of phone booths for all your private call needs, each conveniently equipped with desk and charging point. Our one quibble is that the toilets – only one per gender on each level – are located outside the space, meaning you need your access card to nip in and out.
Office Perks
Monthly membership fees weigh in at S$900 per person – unlike coworking spaces which charge by square feet or office type, Gather has a uniquely flexible pay-per-head policy. What’s more, membership comes with a fab range of wellness and lifestyle perks for us work-hard-play-hard nomads. You can amp up your fitness routine with exclusive discounts from nearby gyms like Absolute You, F45, and Orangetheory Fitness; pop downstairs for a cuppa from Common Man Coffee Roasters; and stroll down the quay to partner dining spots like Three Buns and Publico Ristorante.
For all you pet parents, we’ve saved the best for last – Gather is also pet-friendly! If cuddling with your furkid keeps your stress levels down, consider this your invitation to make everyday bring-your-pet-to-work-day.
Our verdict? Given Gather’s plum location in Robertson Quay, cafe and restaurant options are aplenty – though you might be hard-pressed to find wallet-friendly dining.Well-designed for maximum comfort and eye candy, it’s certainly worth the steep pricing, particularly for teams looking to scale up or work privately. If you need a peaceful space to gather your thoughts (pun not intended) and do your best work, Gather is it.
Gather Cowork is located at 22 Martin Rd, #03-01, Singapore 239058, p. +65 6736 7222. Regular business hours are Mon-Fri 9am–6pm, 24-hour access is available for members.