Tim and Dörte Schabsky have been instrumental in bringing the coworking space concept to the Ruhr region. The founders and managing directors of Work Inn recently opened their ninth location, discovering the perfect setting in the Rü-Karree on the vibrant Rüttenscheider Straße. Across 800 m² spanning two levels, they offer freelancers, employees, and startups individual workspaces within a creative environment.

Dörte Schabsky, who is responsible for the concept and design of the locations, draws inspiration from the surroundings to find a theme. In Rüttenscheid, with its gallery scene, small studios and the Museum Folkwang in the neighbourhood, the choice was easy: art now adorns the walls and rooms of Work Inn Art, with one floor dedicated to Impressionism and the other to Expressionism. "It's important to create a sense of space right from the first visit," explains Dörte Schabsky, who immediately recognised the potential and was already knocking down walls in her mind to achieve the desired spacious atmosphere. The entrance hall is now spacious and inviting, and the corridors are bright thanks to light swords. The kitchen, which is more than just a place to eat but also an important communication hub for co-workers, is located diagonally opposite the entrance. Floor-to-ceiling wallpaper depicts paintings by famous artists. These are continued on the floor, for example, where a landscape merges into a carpet designed to look like a meadow. The herringbone pattern in the public areas is modelled on the floors of old studios, and glass doors to the respective offices provide insights into the artistic world of the space. Fifteen offices and two open areas have been created. Looking into one of the meeting rooms, you are captivated by van Gogh's "Starry Night over the Rhone", which merges into a deep blue carpet, accompanied by blue chairs and yellow ceiling lamps that shine like stars. Small accessories such as wastepaper baskets (pencil sharpeners) and coat hooks (paint drops) complete the colourful working environments. The artist's bedroom is reflected in the kitchen. The colour scheme of the painting is echoed in the kitchenette. Many shades of green and plants contribute to a pleasant atmosphere. Sustainability also plays a decisive role in the design. Floor coverings and furniture are selected not only for their appearance and feel, but also for their carbon footprint. Ideally, this should even be carbon negative or have been awarded the Cradle to Cradle Gold certification.

www.workinn.de

Photography Credits:

Anke Sundermeier
www.ankesundermeier.de

(Published in CUBE Ruhrgebiet 04|22)