Design Values of 「Not-A-Second-Bedroom」
1. Introduction
At Not-A-Second-Bedroom (NAB), our mission is to fundamentally transform how female entrepreneurs engage with their work environments. We believe that the right design can empower women to break free from limiting circumstances and thrive in their entrepreneurial journeys.
2. Problem
Unique Challenges
Through our research, we discovered a significant trend among female entrepreneurs: they are more likely to start their ventures from the confines of their bedrooms. This situation not only isolates them but also limits their professional growth and networking opportunities. Such isolation can lead to increased 'emotional entropy,' causing stress and inefficiency.
“I moved back to my childhood bedroom to start my business. It wasn’t ideal, but it was the only space available to me. ”
“I often find myself working late into the night in my rented room. It’s hard to draw the line between work and rest ”
“I hold remote client meetings from my bedroom, trying to keep it professional despite the limitations. ”
Philosophy of BoundariesInspired by principles from thermodynamics, our design philosophy revolves around optimizing 'boundaries'—interpersonal, time/effort, and spatial—to reduce entropy in the work lives of female entrepreneurs.
Interpersonal BoundariesMany female entrepreneurs experience isolation due to long hours spent working from home, which limits their professional networks and resources.
Time and Effort Boundaries
Without clear boundaries between work and personal life, female entrepreneurs often struggle to maintain productivity and personal well-being.
Spatial BoundariesStarting a business from a bedroom may initially seem convenient but can limit creativity and business expansion in the long run.
3. Strategy
High-Level Design StrategiesAligned with our boundary philosophy, our strategies are tailored to empower female entrepreneurs to recalibrate, connect, and thrive:
STEP1Recalibrate FocusBy providing structured and fully-equipped workspaces, we help entrepreneurs focus on what really matters—their business and personal growth.
STEP2Build Protective BoundariesWe educate and guide entrepreneurs on setting and maintaining effective boundaries that ensure a balanced life, preventing burnout.
STEP3Break Isolation BoundariesOur design promotes an open and collaborative community culture, enabling entrepreneurs to expand their networks and reduce feelings of isolation.
STEP4Absorb Positive EnergyWe create energizing work environments that continually infuse creativity and motivation through workshops, health activities, and social events.
4. Solution
Transformative SpacesNAB transforms under used bank branches and other unconventional spaces into vibrant work cafes that serve not just as offices but as community hubs for innovation and growth. These spaces are equipped with all the amenities needed to foster a positive work environment and support professional development.Meeting Space Rentals as a Starting Point
Our flagship service, meeting space rentals, serves as the entry point to a broader suite of business and well-being services. Whether you need a formal meeting room or a more flexible meeting pod, NAB-certified locations provide the ideal environment for your business to thrive.
Connect to Financial ServicesAccess business bank accounts, microloans, and financial consultations.
Engage in Professional DevelopmentParticipate in business workshops, networking events, and mentoring programs.
Enhance Well-beingBenefit from healthy meals, rest time reminders, and a supportive community environment.
Our ImpactBy implementing these strategies, NAB aims to dramatically decrease the emotional entropy female entrepreneurs experience, paving the way for more productive, creative, and fulfilling entrepreneurial journeys. Our spaces and services are designed to provide the necessary support to enable women to step out of their bedrooms and into a world of opportunities.
5. Vision
In Virginia Woolf's time, women needed financial independence and a room of their own to achieve creative freedom. Today, in 2024, we envision a world where female entrepreneurs can step out of their rooms and expand their horizons. NAB is here to support this journey, providing the resources and community needed to thrive beyond the confines of home.
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Step into a space where your business can thrive.
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Contact Us
Have questions or need more information?
Reach out to us at not.a.second.bedroom@gmail.com
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Royal College of Art MA Service design 2023/24