Follow the Rabbit is a (video) podcast that invites you into the messy, interconnected world of cultural research. Join Igor and Johannes in Season 1 as they use Toby Shorin's essay Life after Lifestyle to explore cultural rabbit holes, connect unexpected dots, and uncover insights that shape our world, all while working with the garage door open.
This episode of Follow the Rabbit explores the convergence of different types of third places, focusing on membership clubs, coworking spaces, and gyms. Key points include:
1. Opening quote from Bill Bishop's “The Big Sort” (2008) about individuals needing to find their community.
2. Discussion of membership clubs:
- Traditional concept (country clubs, business clubs)
- Recent resurgence among younger, creative professionals
- Example of SoHo House's growth and challenges
3. Impact of the pandemic on social connections and the need for community spaces.
4. Convergence of membership clubs and coworking spaces:
- SoHo House offering work desks
- Coworking spaces like Mindspace adding community and lifestyle features
5. Merging of second place (work) and third place concepts.
6. Integration of fitness and wellness features into membership clubs and coworking spaces.
7. Premium office spaces incorporating gym features to incentivize employees to return to the office.
8. Example of Princip, a hotel in Berlin offering gym and coworking memberships to local community.
9. Key factors driving this convergence:
- Low-barrier way to connect with people and community
- Identity and belonging to a group
- Re-bundling of services (gym, coworking, social spaces) under one membership
10. Prediction that this convergence of concepts will continue and evolve.
The episode highlights how different types of third places are adapting and merging to meet contemporary needs for community, identity, and convenience. It suggests a trend towards more integrated, multifunctional spaces that combine work, fitness, and social elements under one membership model.
You can also watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/pCsXRGAOcrw