This Co-Working Space Offers Clarity and Focus

Does your work day feel lonely on days you work from home? Do you miss the company of others and the banter of a good adult conversation? Would you like to work in a quiet, Zen like space?

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then check out the 15 W. Main St. is a co-op work space set up for those who regularly work from home, but would like an office space.

"There are currently four of us sharing the space," said Owner, Jack Speranza, "Ultimately, I would like to see six to eight here daily."

Co-working is not a new concept, but it is unique. The way it works is people can join as members and then determine the amount of time that is right for them to use the space.

You can pay to use a worktable for half a day for $20 or you can become a full-time member for $400 per month plus the cost of membership. There are also many levels of membership in between.

"I am not the founder of co-working," Speranza said, "But I was thinking about it long before it became popular three or four years ago. I really see this space as a solution to the Starbucks dilemma where folks are forced to work with lots of hustle and bustle and noise."

At the Zen Bungalow, a lovely two-story renovated home on Main St., you can have meetings, meet clients, collaborate with other at-home businesses and enjoy adult conversation.

"These are the intangibles that we offer that you cannot get at Starbucks," Speranza said.

Ultimately, the space belongs to the members, but Speranza also offers the space to other locals who may wish to hold a holiday party, a bridal shower, a conference or a workshop.

"Zio's, the business downnstairs offers very reasonable catering prices," Speranza said,  "so that is right there for you as well."

If you plan to use the space on any regular basis, then being a member is the answer.

"As a member you get more than just a space," Speranza said, "You can also use this as your mailing address, and you get the use of all the furniture, the conference rooms and the desks. This can really help save costs."

Speranza will soon be offering a lunchtime yoga series as well as evening yoga classes with local yoga instructor, Judy Thapa. He also offers lunchtime workshops that would speak to self-employed people.

Speranza, who bought the building in 2003, is the Principal of Main Street Ventures a local company that helps small business from concept to company and beyond.

As for the name?

"Bungalow is the style of the building," Speranza said. "And the word Zen means simplicity, focus, clarity and being in the moment."

Speranza would like to see his community idea grow in other areas, but has no plans at this time.

"If I find the concept works in a community this size," Speranza said, "it would be interesting to see if it could work elsewhere."

Speranza's main goal is to have the opportunity to work with and build other companies.

"I really like the concept and working with other businesses," Speranza said.