Open Plan Co-Working, Photographic and Events Studio, Durban, 2012-22
The Concept :
Initially conceived as a 3 month pop-up art and exhibition studio in abandoned industrial building on the train tracks. Transformed a once dusty empty 1000m2 x6 floor building into a vibrant centre for the arts, cultural production and co-working for a decade in Durban.
* Sean Stretch - Founder Tasks :
• Concept, research and development
• Project presentations to initiate development
• Architectural and interior design
• Planning, growth and strategy
• Marketing and communications• Tenant curation and client liaison
• Staff sourcing and mentorship
Studio Services :
• Placemaking and cultural production
• Photographic and multi studio
• Events venue and management
• Events venue and management
• Creative consulting and outsourcing
• Co-working and office rental
Events, Activation, Experiential
Brand and artist collaborations
Placemaking and cultural production
Cross over events - Exhibition, activation, live art, performance, music
Studio Facilities - Photo, Video, Exhibit, Podcast, Live Stream
Full production photographic agency
Multi studio and location site
Co-Working, Office Rental
Co-working and office rental
Shared facilities and flexible leasing
Curated and fully serviced work spaces
Co-working In Action
Journey from Vision to Realisation...
Co-Working, Mixed Use, Multiple Studio, Office, Work, Play, Invent, Create!
• 4th Floor, Design Factory, 39 Station Drive
• 1000m2 mixed-use property and extended into the formation of a creative precinct for the city of Durban.
*
As the founding member and manager of the space for 10 years I feel fortunate in taking part in the promotion of the arts and design in our community, aiming towards creating a place where new talent can seed, be discovered, and connect with industry experts to share and work together.
Many people took part in the formation, growth and evolution as the project organically scaled and became known as a go-to for good design, artisan techniques, authenticity and pride in independent creative thinking.
...<3
Some of the work we did and people we met along the way...
\\ Web and Socials
\\ Digital Flyers - Studio Services - Design: Sean Stretch.
\\ Digital Brochure - Exhibition Invite and Toolkit - Design: Sean Stretch.
\\ Digital Flyers - Response to COVID19 Restrictions - Design: Sean Stretch.
\\ Interior and Architectural Design - Please see all project work in separate Béhance portfolio.
Summary:
The Open Plan Studio Project concluded at the end 2022. As COVID19 lockdowns and restrictions effected the event and start-up industries, and as economies adjusted it became increasingly difficult to sustain the larger physical space.
The project allowed us to explore many facets in the broader fields of building and mixed use developments, creative economies and industries, cultural production and capacity building, down to the niche aspects of design and creative production,
We feel extremely fortunate to have a played a role in the growth and development of all the small to medium creative enterprises that moved through our doors, providing a platform for connection with larger corporate role players. Humbly grateful for the support we received from all role players that sustained the project for the 10year period.
Onwards and upwards, and thanks for the good times.
💜🩵🩶
