Writers’ space, community opens at The Hatchery
Talia Bolnick’s enthusiasm for her new co-working space for writers is catching.
Several locals have signed on for full and part-time memberships at the The Hatchery Press, 5611 Clinton St. at Larchmont Blvd.
Day passes are also available to enter the light-filled, wi-fi-connected 2,000 square-foot open lounge, studio and conference room plus a rooftop deck.
Screenwriters, short story writers, journalists and poets work on their laptops in the open area which is bathed in white, from the tables to the skylights overhead. Couches, wood pieces and Persian-inspired carpets make it comfy.
A revolving gallery features works by local artists, and there is a reference and lending library, community bulletin board and games to take the stress off. A kitchen is equipped with a refrigerator and microwave, and where coffee and tea is free 24/7. Classes and workshops are also offered.
Bolnick studied psychology and philosophy in England and was set to start her Ph.D, when the longtime poet turned to working on her literary sci-fi novel.
“I struggled to work from home,” said the Rossmore Ave. resident, but distractions led her to coffee shops and to newly sprung up co-working environments. The open-format model started in Silicon Valley, she explains. Opening a writers’ haven near her home was a natural evolution.
“It’s nice to have a space completely dedicated to your craft,” she says.
It was also a crash course in business entrepreneurship, for which she partnered with mom Suzanne Phillips, an artist and owner of the building.
Writing is a lonely job, and here writers can share ideas, network and write. Diversity is key, says Talia. “It’s open to all ages, all races.”
A grand opening is Thurs., April 16 from 5 to 8 p.m. Christina McDowell will read from her new book, “After Perfect.”
Category: People