Working from home has become the new normal for many Port Washington residents, but it poses challenges that have them itching to get back into offices that are no longer available. New business Worksmart solves that problem.
Worksmart is a collaborative workspace available to businesses and individuals, introducing what it touts as a “new era of the modern office.” Worksmart Director of Public Relations Richard Piana said that it offers an alternative for individuals and businesses that do not want to rent office spaces.
“From large companies seeking a central hub to independent creative professionals looking to connect, WorkSmart is able to accommodate a team of any size,” Piana said.
The new business opened its doors in Port Washington at 1 Channel Drive at the beginning of February and has established locations in Hicksville and Huntington. It was started by G2D Group, a private real estate development, construction and property management firm.
“We felt a need, especially on the North Shore of Long Island in Nassau County,” Piana said. “There was a huge amount of demand from residents looking for a space [to work].”
According to a November report from the state comptroller, office space vacancies in New York City reached 18.3%, a rate not seen in over 30 years.
Many businesses are opting not to return to their office spaces after leaving amid the pandemic. But businesses and individuals alike are looking for workspace options compatible with the changing time.
Worksmart includes amenities such as Wi-Fi, video conferencing abilities, private offices, printing and scanning services, break areas, mail reception and a kitchen with coffee, tea and snacks.
The 7,000-square-foot building includes common spaces, 14 private office suites, hot desks and conference rooms. A hot desk allows the user to move between different Worksmart spaces, Piana said.
He said the design of Worksmart contributes to a “professional yet inviting environment” for its users.
To utilize the spaces, a membership is required. Piana said memberships vary by location and Port Washington memberships range from $475 up to $2,500 a month. Membership prices are dependent on the types of spaces needed for the business or individual.
The two memberships offered are either for a private office suite or a hot desk.
So far there have been no member sign-ups at their newest location, but Piana said the company has received a large number of inquiries about beginning a membership.
The Port Washington Chamber of Commerce is hosting a ribbon-cutting for Worksmart on April 20. The ribbon-cutting is by invitation only. There will be a light lunch, beverages and a facility tour.
Piana said he is looking forward to the event as a way to unite the community in “demonstrating the functioning of shared co-working spaces.”
“We’re looking forward to creating a community place where people that live in the community can come and utilize the space,” Piana said. “Port Washington has been great in welcoming us to the community.”