Speaker: Sebastian Vela General Topic: Axis Space, shared space for start ups in the CBD

There is a new trend in office space which allows small start-ups, which might not otherwise be able to have flexible space in the downtown CBDs, to work together and thrive. Axis, is a new office space located in 333 Las Olas. The space, offers a variety of options and price levels for different office users. Rates start around $300.00 per-month, for access to open space, to $2,800.00 per-month, for a reserved office on the fourth floor. The members, of all levels, have access to a variety of amenities and conference rooms. Adding more value is the ability to work together with other members. For example, a web designer that rents space could generate business by working some of the other new business to create their websites.

                The site of the office building had been zoned for office development since the residential tower it is attached to was built, was purchased vacant from the bank. It sat vacant for many years until the right company decided to develop it. The office building is attached the residential tower, Las Olas River House, and is part of a common HOA. When the plans for this modern office building were proposed, there were some condo owners that did not approve of the concept. However, I feel in the long term, this office space should gain in success and in turn help maintain a diversified balance within the HOA.

                Axis is filling a need for a trend that has not yet been filled in the downtown Fort Lauderdale area. Opening this past year, it is still growing and listening to its members and looking for ways to grow in the future. The third floor, which is now vacant, may be transformed into a mid-level price space, where members can have assigned desks, without the wall separation on the more exclusive fourth floor.

                While this concept is still new to Broward County, there are many examples of it in Miami-Dade County and dozens more in New York City. When I first heard of this concept about a year ago, it seemed like a brilliant play on less traditional office space. Its benefits are hard to quantify as so many of the business in similar spaces around the country gain in success by the word of mouth and working together of different companies that work together in the office.