An artist has provided an innovative solution to London’s worsening work space supply shortage – an office in a tree.
Construction of the unique co-working space began this week around a tree trunk in Hackney’s Hoxton Square, as part of the 2 Degrees Festival 2015. The festival, which is in its fourth year, is organised by Artsadmin and asks what we can do to create a sustainable future.
Along with Artsadmin, Hackney Council and Groundwork London are also involved in the delivery of the tree office as part of the wider Park Hack project. The initiative aims to pilot new business models which are able to generate income for investment in green spaces. The Rethinking Parks Programme is funded by Nesta, the Big Lottery Fund England and the Heritage Lottery Fund.
TREExOFFICE has been created by Australian born artist Natalie Jeremijenko in collaboration with artists Shuster + Moseley, architects Tate Harmer and consulting architects Gensler. A range of sponsors are providing building materials, bespoke furniture and wi-fi connectivity.
The tree office will provide space for up to eight people working on laptops, with the transparent weather proof structure providing enjoyable views across the square.
When it opens to the public on June 1, businesses and community groups will be able to use a booking system to rent space from the tree, and the revenue will be used to fund improvements to Hackney’s parks.
Jeremijenko says; “I’m interested in the idea of nonhuman organisms owning property and how it might change their value.
“In Hoxton we’ll see how the tree begins to exploit its property for its own purpose, assume its own voice and exert its independence.”
Cabinet member for health, social care and culture at Hackney Council, Jonathan McShane, welcomes the arrival of TREExOFFICE.
He says; “The Council has partnered with a range of organisations to launch this innovative project which will help provide unique workspace in the heart of borough’s tech cluster that is home to thousands of small, growing businesses.
“Also helping to generate funding for the borough’s beautiful parks and open spaces, the innovative design of the ‘Tree Office’ will provide a space not only where people can work and meet, but also to interact with the natural environment, a vastly different experience from working in a modern office. I’m excited to see the people using this space once the project launches early next month.”
TREExOFFICE will be in situ and available to rent until December 31.
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