The Farm Soho - A Journey of Innovation and Community

The Farm Soho: Where Innovation Meets Community

The coworking industry is buzzing with creativity, and at the heart of this movement is The Farm Soho, a unique coworking space that offers more than just a desk. Founded by Lucas Seyhun, The Farm Soho has quickly become a leader in the industry by focusing on innovation, community, and personalized experiences.

The Genesis of The Farm Soho

Lucas Seyhun’s journey into the coworking industry began with an unexpected idea. Faced with an idle 2500 sqft loft, Lucas initially considered listing it on Airbnb. However, the legal complexities surrounding short-term rentals led a friend to suggest an alternative: turning the loft into a coworking space.

"Coworking is like the legal Airbnb for businesses," Lucas recalls, and this idea sparked his entrepreneurial journey.

 

Since then, The Farm Soho has grown into a successful venture with eight locations across the United States, including two direct leases and six revenue-share agreements. With spaces in Manhattan, Delaware, and San Francisco, The Farm Soho offers a range of options for businesses of all sizes.

Design and Atmosphere

The Farm Soho is known for its open industrial design, featuring natural light, plants, and rustic furnishings that create a cozy yet professional atmosphere. The spaces are crafted to inspire creativity and collaboration, offering an environment where ideas can flourish.

"Our locations bring back the quaint vintage feel to work, inspiring creativity and collaboration," Lucas explains.

 

Adapting to Change

The coworking industry faced significant challenges during the pandemic, but The Farm Soho adapted swiftly by enhancing health protocols and expanding virtual services. They introduced Virtual Mailbox (VMB) and Virtual Office (VO) services, which have become an essential part of their offerings and now account for 20% of their revenue.

Innovative Services and Community Building

The Farm Soho's success is not only due to its adaptable strategies but also its commitment to providing exceptional value to its members. The coworking space offers a range of memberships, including hot desks, dedicated desks, private offices, and virtual memberships. Private offices range from 100 sqft to 3000 sqft, catering to various industry needs.

Farm Soho's Farm Stand café offers a selection of healthy snacks and drinks, fueling productivity and enhancing the overall coworking experience. Regular networking events, workshops, and social gatherings foster a sense of community and collaboration among members.

"Our community is dynamic, diverse, and collaborative," Lucas shares. "Members range from freelancers and startups to established businesses, all sharing a commitment to innovation and mutual support."

 

Success and Challenges

For Lucas, the key to The Farm Soho's success lies in revenue source diversification, great customer service, and a focus on community. By offering flexible solutions and a unique blend of amenities, The Farm Soho sets itself apart from larger corporate coworking spaces like WeWork.

"We are a boutique operation offering a unique and personalized experience," Lucas notes. "Unlike large corporate coworking spaces, The Farm Soho feels more like a cozy café or a creative studio."

 

However, staying ahead of changing work trends remains a constant challenge. Lucas emphasizes the importance of engaging with members, soliciting feedback, and being agile in their approach to innovation and service delivery.

Looking Ahead: Future Plans

The Farm Soho’s future is bright, with plans to expand through revenue/profit share agreements and enhance virtual and hybrid work solutions. Lucas is also exploring partnerships to offer more exclusive member benefits and services.

Lucas's Advice for Aspiring Coworking Entrepreneurs

Lucas's success story is an inspiration for those looking to start their own coworking space. He advises focusing on building a strong community, offering flexible and scalable solutions, and ensuring spaces are designed to inspire productivity.

"Ensure your competition has healthy occupancy and diversify your revenue sources," Lucas advises.

 

Conclusion

The Farm Soho is more than just a coworking space; it’s a thriving community that embodies innovation, creativity, and collaboration. Lucas Seyhun's vision has transformed a simple idea into a flourishing business model that continues to evolve and lead in the coworking industry.

Explore more about Farm Soho and discover how this unique coworking space can elevate your business experience by visiting their website.