Co-working boost for freelancers and remote workers in North Yorkshire city
Ady and Nicola Gray with Katie Reeves (Image: Pic supplied)
A new co-working space has opened in Ripon to support freelancers and remote workers.
The Light Room is based on Queen Street and named in memory of photographer Paul Oldham, who worked at the former Light Room Photography Studio before his death in May.
The space has been refurbished and repurposed by Ady and Nicola Gray, who also run The Karate Dojo and Exhale Yoga at Jion Studios.
Mr Gray said: "The Light Room Photography Studio was the inspiration of our dear friend Paul.
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"He created a relaxed and welcoming place where people felt comfortable, where conversations happened naturally and friendships and connections were made.
"Paul had a genuine passion for people and understood the importance of community, human connection and the positive impact these can have on our mental wellbeing."
An elegant interior
(Image: Pic supplied)
Mrs Gray said: "When the time came to give the space a new purpose, we knew we didn’t want to lose what Paul had created.
"Instead, we wanted to preserve that feeling and carry his values forward.
"And so, The Light Room Co-working Space was born."
The space offers flexible desk hire for £20 per day and is aimed at freelancers, entrepreneurs, remote workers, and small businesses.
It includes kitchen facilities, a shower, and large windows overlooking Ripon city centre.
Among The Light Room’s first users is Katie Reeves, who with Sarah Lewis founded the Medley Ripon co-working group.
Their attempt to secure permanent premises in the city was unsuccessful, but Ms Reeves welcomed the new space.
Ms Reeves said: "What Ady and Nicola have set up here is tremendous and has proved ideal for me.
A karate class
(Image: Pic supplied)
"I wish them every success."
The Light Room complements other businesses at Jion Studios, including The Karate Dojo and Exhale Yoga, and follows a shared ethos of creating environments where people can thrive and connect.
Mr Oldham’s photography remains on display throughout the building as a lasting tribute to his creativity and passion.
Ripon BID manager Lilla Bathurst said: "The need for a permanent location in Ripon, for the city’s growing co-worker community, was identified by Katie and Sarah, but sadly their search for appropriate premises was not successful.
"With this in mind, it is good to see the launch of Ady and Nicola’s new venture, which goes some way towards meeting the clear demand for co-working facilities in the city."
Bookings for The Light Room can be made online.