Flexible workspace provider, Fora, has announced the opening of its latest space in Fitzrovia, Wells Mews. The new development, which opens fully-let, provides 20,495 sq ft of inspiring workspaces across four floors. Creating a unique ‘home away from home’ experience, the space has been designed to respond to the differing business, cultural and wellness needs of its new Residents.
Wellbeing has been placed at the heart of Wells Mews’ design and is reflected in all its carefully curated spaces – evident from the moment you enter the reception space and are greeted by a grand round-shaped bar, low-lamps, and an abundance of greenery.
Fora Residents can access a gym and an ambient ‘Restore Room’ for mindful activities, which opens into an indoor garden, reading room and coffee bar. Adapting to the changing nature of working life as more people commute by bicycle, Fora has also implemented increased cycle storage for its Residents, as well as a beauty bar and modern shower facilities.
Vertical farming pioneers, Square Mile Farms, has installed hydroponic, self-watering ‘Farm Towers’ in each of the kitchens, growing fresh produce Residents can use in their lunches or take home.
Celebrating the building’s legacy as a garment factory dating back to the 1930s, an art collaboration with Fora Resident, British Fashion Council (BFC), showcases emerging talent from BFC’s NEW WAVE: Creatives project.
NEW WAVE: Creatives is a list of 50 of the most innovative, young creative talent from around the world as voted for by the fashion industry as part of The Fashion Awards; the annual red-carpet event, organised by the British Fashion Council to celebrate creativity and innovation.
Artwork by 2019 NEW WAVE: Creative Vasily Agrenenko explores the ideas of identity and insecurity. In his fashion portfolio, Agrenenko brings personality to the clothes he photographs by experimenting with characters and observing the story.
Caroline Rush, Chief Executive British Fashion Council said: “We are delighted to see Vasily’s work at Fora’s Fitzrovia, Wells Mews. NEW WAVE: Creatives was launched to shine a light on some of the most exciting, young creative talent and bring them to the forefront of creative industries via partnerships such as this one. This is very much aligned with Fora’s collaborative spirit.”
Katrina Larkin, Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer, Fora said: “Our collaboration with the British Fashion Council reflects our aim to bring people, Residents and sustainability to the forefront of everything we do. With social and environmental changes being demanded more than ever – especially in the garment industry – Wells Mews offers a working space for socially conscious businesses allowing them to meet modern sustainable aspirations without compromise to style or purpose.”
Fitzrovia, Wells Mews retains its original high ceilings, skylights, wall arches and windows; characteristic of garment factories. Hallmarks of fashion including modern prints, plaids, abstract shapes and artwork, are offset against a contemporary backdrop. Fora collaborated with design studio, Narrative, to curate an interior language that speaks to the building’s heritage, whilst delivering a modern and sustainable workspace.
The launch of Wells Mews is the latest affirmation of Fora’s current momentum. From its first location in Old Street in 2017, the business has expanded across London and Reading with the announcement of an expansion into Oxford and Cambridge, as well as plans for new international locations, confirmed for the coming years.
