A dynamic new community initiative in Aberfeldy is redefining the landscape of remote employment in Highland Perthshire, providing a vital bridge between traditional office environments and working from home. This innovative hub addresses common challenges faced by remote professionals in rural settings, such as inconsistent internet access and feelings of isolation, by offering a dedicated and connected workspace amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
Launched earlier this summer, the Aberfeldy Cowork facility in the heart of the town centre provides eleven flexible desk spaces, available for a modest daily fee of £15. Beyond individual workstations, the venue is equipped with a private meeting room, comfortable communal areas for breaks, and kitchen facilities, fostering an environment ripe for informal discussions and networking. A key highlight for users is the reliable, high-speed Wi-Fi, a crucial amenity in areas where broadband can often be a challenge. A Vision Born from Personal Experience
The concept for Aberfeldy Cowork originated from the personal experiences of local visual designer, Isabella Bunell. After relocating to Aberfeldy in 2020, during the height of global lockdowns, Isabella quickly grew fond of the rural lifestyle but identified a distinct need for a professional space that could offer both productivity and social connection. Her desire for a ‘best of both worlds’ solution resonated deeply within the community.
To validate this need, Isabella collaborated with Enterprise Scotland on a comprehensive feasibility study, which revealed that a significant 70% of respondents echoed her sentiments regarding the drawbacks of isolated remote work. Bolstered by these findings, Isabella, alongside a dedicated group of four local friends, successfully crowdfunded nearly £3,000 to renovate a vacant office space, transforming it into the vibrant hub it is today. Serving a Diverse Professional Landscape
The Aberfeldy Cowork space operates as a Community Interest Company (CIC), signifying its commitment to operating as a not-for-profit entity driven by community benefit. Managed by a team of enthusiastic volunteers, the hub is open four days a week, welcoming professionals from a broad spectrum of industries. From ecologists and creative professionals to diligent accountants and meticulous researchers, the diverse clientele underscores the varied talents thriving within and around Perth and Kinross.
The flexible booking system allows individuals to reserve desks for full or half days, while the meeting room can be booked by the hour. This adaptability makes the hub an attractive option not only for local residents but also for visitors to Highland Perthshire who require a reliable workspace to manage emails or conduct virtual meetings while enjoying a holiday in the region. This integration of local and visitor needs perfectly encapsulates Aberfeldy’s unique appeal, fostering a symbiotic relationship between its community and tourism sector. Work-Life Balance on the River Tay
One of the hub’s most enthusiastic volunteers is Luc Benyon, a 42-year-old marketing professional who works for a London-based advertising technology firm. Luc’s story exemplifies the work-life balance that Aberfeldy Cowork aims to facilitate. Having moved to Aberfeldy three years prior in pursuit of a more tranquil existence, he nonetheless required a professional environment to maintain his career.
For Luc, the coworking space offers an unparalleled advantage: the ability to engage in invigorating outdoor pursuits, such as paddleboarding on the majestic River Tay or running through the picturesque Birks of Aberfeldy, all within his lunch break. “This space truly delivers the best of both worlds,” Luc states, reflecting on its impact. “I’m incredibly proud to be part of an initiative that not only combats the isolation of remote work but also actively encourages creativity and productivity through community interaction.” The hub, nestled in such an inspiring setting, provides a refreshing alternative to traditional work models, enriching the lives of its users and bolstering the local economy of Aberfeldy and the wider Perth and Kinross region.
Launched earlier this summer, the Aberfeldy Cowork facility in the heart of the town centre provides eleven flexible desk spaces, available for a modest daily fee of £15. Beyond individual workstations, the venue is equipped with a private meeting room, comfortable communal areas for breaks, and kitchen facilities, fostering an environment ripe for informal discussions and networking. A key highlight for users is the reliable, high-speed Wi-Fi, a crucial amenity in areas where broadband can often be a challenge. A Vision Born from Personal Experience
The concept for Aberfeldy Cowork originated from the personal experiences of local visual designer, Isabella Bunell. After relocating to Aberfeldy in 2020, during the height of global lockdowns, Isabella quickly grew fond of the rural lifestyle but identified a distinct need for a professional space that could offer both productivity and social connection. Her desire for a ‘best of both worlds’ solution resonated deeply within the community.
To validate this need, Isabella collaborated with Enterprise Scotland on a comprehensive feasibility study, which revealed that a significant 70% of respondents echoed her sentiments regarding the drawbacks of isolated remote work. Bolstered by these findings, Isabella, alongside a dedicated group of four local friends, successfully crowdfunded nearly £3,000 to renovate a vacant office space, transforming it into the vibrant hub it is today. Serving a Diverse Professional Landscape
The Aberfeldy Cowork space operates as a Community Interest Company (CIC), signifying its commitment to operating as a not-for-profit entity driven by community benefit. Managed by a team of enthusiastic volunteers, the hub is open four days a week, welcoming professionals from a broad spectrum of industries. From ecologists and creative professionals to diligent accountants and meticulous researchers, the diverse clientele underscores the varied talents thriving within and around Perth and Kinross.
The flexible booking system allows individuals to reserve desks for full or half days, while the meeting room can be booked by the hour. This adaptability makes the hub an attractive option not only for local residents but also for visitors to Highland Perthshire who require a reliable workspace to manage emails or conduct virtual meetings while enjoying a holiday in the region. This integration of local and visitor needs perfectly encapsulates Aberfeldy’s unique appeal, fostering a symbiotic relationship between its community and tourism sector. Work-Life Balance on the River Tay
One of the hub’s most enthusiastic volunteers is Luc Benyon, a 42-year-old marketing professional who works for a London-based advertising technology firm. Luc’s story exemplifies the work-life balance that Aberfeldy Cowork aims to facilitate. Having moved to Aberfeldy three years prior in pursuit of a more tranquil existence, he nonetheless required a professional environment to maintain his career.
For Luc, the coworking space offers an unparalleled advantage: the ability to engage in invigorating outdoor pursuits, such as paddleboarding on the majestic River Tay or running through the picturesque Birks of Aberfeldy, all within his lunch break. “This space truly delivers the best of both worlds,” Luc states, reflecting on its impact. “I’m incredibly proud to be part of an initiative that not only combats the isolation of remote work but also actively encourages creativity and productivity through community interaction.” The hub, nestled in such an inspiring setting, provides a refreshing alternative to traditional work models, enriching the lives of its users and bolstering the local economy of Aberfeldy and the wider Perth and Kinross region.