In January 2013, Serendipity Labs opened in the longtime vacant Biltmore Motors space on the corner of Locust and Theodore Fremd avenues…
By Georgetta L. Morque
In January 2013, Serendipity Labs opened in the longtime vacant Biltmore Motors space on the corner of Locust and Theodore Fremd avenues and brought an innovative corporate co-working venue to Rye. Today, with the changing nature of the workplace spearheaded by mobile technologies, the concept has taken off and Serendipity is leading the way. The company has signed joint venture and franchise partners for the development of more than 60 locations across the country, making it one of the fastest growing brands of shared workplace membership providers. Labs will soon open in New York City, Chicago, Washington, D.C., northern New Jersey, and Miami.
The first location proved to be the perfect prototype. Rye resident and CEO John Arenas describes it as a gem because it’s in a town with great amenities and is within walking distance of the train.
Members, who live in Rye, Larchmont, or some distance away — Chappaqua and the Rivertowns — are generally at a stage in their careers where they have a choice as to where they work and need a workspace other than a coffee shop.
“People join to improve the quality of their lives by working close to home when they need to, and unlocking their full potential as spouses, parents, friends, and citizens,” said Arenas.
Members come from a variety of industries, companies, and startups. Around 40 percent are women. Membership enables access to shared workspaces, private offices, Lab café and lounge, collaboration studios, meeting and event space, and many services. Catering to those working independently, Serendipity curates a full schedule of seminars, meet-ups, and special events, which Arenas says fills the gap in what used to be professional development in the workplace. “It’s a way to help independent professionals work on their personal brand, improve skills, and break from the isolation of working alone.”
Many of Swerendipity’s events are open to the public. Stop by to see a new show featuring work by filmmaker Ryan Piers Williams.
With membership at capacity, Serendipity Labs is in the process of redesigning its space in Rye to accommodate more. Members can join at a number of usage levels, from once-a-month to full-time, will be able to add on network access plans for use of the new locations when traveling.
Looking back and imagining the future of work and technology and a better quality of life, Arenas says: “The future is here.”
For more information, visit www.serendipitylabs.com.
