Hatch Entrepreneurial Center : Project Part One

I've been helping friends of mine with the design for a center they've created for young Rhode Island entrepreneurs cleverly titled, Hatch.  They've spent months developing the concept and converting two floors of their historic bank building into a space that will help foster young businesses.  Nestled amongst the campuses of Johnson & Wales, Brown, RISD and PC this space is sure to appeal recent graduates and start ups in the area.  The idea is similar to a shared office space that allows tenants a place to hang their titles instead of at the local coffee shop.  There's conferencing space, access to printing, wifi, mentoring and advice through a business network and an actual mailing address.   Its a brilliant cause that's dear to their hearts so I was more that willing to help transform the space into an environment that harbors inspiration and professional development for the local community.

This is the pallet I had to work with, (gorgeous right?) coined the "beehive" this will be the flex area for morning coffee, checking emails and impromptu meetings.  Standing in the turret you overlook a bustling square just in front of the Providence Performing Arts Center.  You can literally feel the energy in this room.

For design of the space I wanted to let the natural lighting, breathtaking windows and refinished floors stay center stage.  The elements we brought in had to be quiet, clean and airy like the rest of the room.  Design for this room would essentially become the feel of Hatch to be reflected in the entry way, elevator remodel and the work space elements once you enter the space.

The last couple weeks have been all about construction, painting, receiving furniture, final element sourcing and installation.

This adorable fiddle leaf fig tree isn't quite as tall as I wanted, but for New England end of summer, we're looking at it as having plenty of room for future growth!  We'll try to cheat it in a larger pot for some height - a little set design illusion never hurt anybody!  Ian, my go-to furniture installer, problem solver and brother; helps with the heavy lifting.

Later that day, the guys humor me as we try to get the precise placement for these wood pendants.  Just wait 'till you see them with the floors!

Grand Opening is Wednesday, September 18th!  Stay tuned for final photos and my favorite notes on the project!