Get to Know Whiskers Workspace
Where Productivity Meets Feline Companionship
Opening on August 15, Whiskers Workspace LLC is poised to transform the co-working landscape in St. Petersburg. Founded by Diane Emery, this innovative space seamlessly blends a professional work environment with the calming presence of cats, offering a unique haven for both cat lovers and productivity enthusiasts.
From Vision to Reality: The Journey of Whiskers Workspace
The story of Whiskers Workspace began when Diane Emery with two partners acquired a building just before the pandemic. Their original plan was to lease the space to law firms and house two court reporting agencies: Executive Reporting Service and Lucente & Associates. However, the rise of remote work and the shift to Zoom left the building vacant.
During this time CJPaws, Inc., a foster-based cat rescue had been showcasing rescue cats at the Sunshine Kitty Catfe and Petsmart at Lighthouse Crossings and both locations closed due to redevelopment.
Diane, on the board of CJPaws, saw an opportunity to repurpose the building and help showcase the kitties.
Market research revealed a strong community desire for a workspace that combined professional settings with the soothing presence of cats. This insight led to the birth of Whiskers Workspace—a unique co-working space that now also serves as the permanent administrative headquarters for CJPaws.
A Fresh Concept in Co-Working
Whiskers Workspace offers a one-of-a-kind experience with its distinctive features:
- Co-Working Spaces: Choose from private workspaces for focused tasks, collaborative areas for teamwork, and well-equipped meeting rooms—all enhanced by high-speed internet for a seamless workflow.
- Cat Lounge: Take a break and recharge in our specially designed lounge, where friendly resident cats are always ready for a cuddle, offering a therapeutic escape from the workday.
- Events and Programs: From cat yoga sessions and art classes to cat care workshops, our events are designed to enrich both your professional and personal life. Special themed gatherings further foster a vibrant community spirit.
Making a Positive Impact on the Community
Whiskers Workspace is more than just a unique co-working environment; it’s deeply committed to the St. Petersburg community:
- Supporting Animal Welfare: Partnering with CJPaws, Whiskers Workspace dedicates a significant portion of its profits to supporting cat rescue and adoption efforts, helping to find loving homes for cats in need.
- Enhancing Well-Being: The presence of cats in the workspace offers therapeutic benefits, reducing stress and promoting mental well-being, while fostering a creative and relaxed atmosphere.
- Fostering Community: Our space is designed to encourage social connections and networking, providing a welcoming environment where individuals can build relationships and collaborate—all in the company of our friendly feline residents.
- Promoting Local Economy: We collaborate with local businesses and artisans, driving economic growth and increasing foot traffic to the area.
- Encouraging Creativity and Innovation: With our diverse range of programs and unique work environment, Whiskers Workspace is set to inspire creativity and position St. Petersburg as a forward-thinking hub for business and culture.
Looking Ahead
As Whiskers Workspace prepares for its grand opening, we remain committed to creating a space that not only meets the needs of our members but also contributes positively to the community. By merging professional workspaces with a cat-friendly atmosphere and community-focused initiatives, Whiskers Workspace is set to become a transformative presence in St. Petersburg.
