WeWork is a company that has cracked the code when it comes to developing a business model around not just a coworking space but a coworking culture. Launched in 2010, the company has been fueled by one mission–“To create a world where people work to make a life, not just a living.” While the company has been able to create a unique working environment that spans across the United States in cities like Atlanta, Portland and Miami and internationally in cities like London and Amsterdam, they have a new challenge–not just changing the way people work but changing the way they live.
Continuing with the brand, WeWork is “beta testing” it's WeLive concept in Arlington, Virginia and New York, New York. WeLive consists of a community built around the idea that “we are only as good as the people we surround ourselves with.” The communal apartments are reminiscent of a college dorm room on steroids boasting a spacious bathroom and lots of amenities including a Chef's Kitchen, Laundry/Arcade, Yoga Studio, fully hooked up units with HDTVs, in-ceiling wireless speakers, sensor-regulated environmental controls and more. There are many options available in month-t0-month leases including Studio apartments (about $1,600/month) to a 3+ bedroom apartments. Overall, the costs are comparable to other areas in Arlington but those other areas lack the “WeLive” experience. Every floor and “neighborhood” has it's own design and character which adds to the overall culture and what makes it more of a community than your everyday apartment building.
The discussion to officially announce WeLive to the community was hosted by Sarah Fraser and featured Dave McLaughlin, former filmaker and WeWork's General Manager of the Eastern U.S. and Canada and Angela Fox, the President of the Crystal City Business Improvement District and WeLive resident. They fielded questions about the future of WeLive, what it is like to live there and how WeLive is impacting the local community.
Gallery
