NGC moved it’s office to a space in Madison that’s often referred to as the “cool buildings on Paterson Street with the big birds out front.” Those birds (see photo) are officially titled “Dreamcatchers” and they’ll greet you on your next visit.
Working in an energized space was critical for us, and Madison challenged us in finding one that met our criteria. Here’s how we fared:
- We wanted to be on one of Madison’s bike paths, so that we could bike to work. We know that this is good for our well-being (one of our 5 Inspiration). Plus, Madison’s bike paths are often plowed before the streets in winter, making them very commuter-friendly. Our new space is 25 feet from the bike path.
- We wanted lots of light and fresh air. Studies show that this improves performance, and many of our teammates put ‘windows’ and ‘sunlight’ high on their priority lists. Our office has tons of light at all times of the day, and windows that open SO well that we were burglarized last week. (You know what they say about being careful what you wish for…?)
- We wanted a space that had access to a shower, so that we could exercise during the day, and not repel clients afterward. Our visionary landlord and building owner, Don Warren, built a full, accessible shower and locker room in one of the other buildings on our campus. Just pack your own towel and toiletries.
- We wanted a dog-friendly space. Here again, Don rocks. He said as long as the dogs are friendly, the building is dog-friendly. Our NGC team has a total of six dogs among us - plus visiting dogs from our co-tenants. Sometimes, our office feels a little too dog-friendly!
- We wanted to be close to all of Madison’s energy. Since our building is on the Isthmus, we’re a short walk from Lazy Jane’s (mmmm, scones), the Willy Street Coop, and El Dorado Grill, home of the best service and margaritas in Madison.
We also got a few things that weren’t on our list:
- A legacy to grow into. Our new office has a history of strong Madison tennants. Madison Magazine officed here when Rebecca first met Brian Howell, Brennan Nardi and Jen Wenninger. Their magazine is flourishing, and Rebecca has become a regular contributor. Next came WECC, the Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation , a pioneer in helping consumers conserve energy - and money. WECC moved into a new affordable, energy efficient, and sustainable designed office in Research Park that completely aligns with their energy-efficiency mission.
- Our landlord and the building’s owner, Don Warren, is committed to his tenants. We did a lot of shopping before landing in Don’s ‘bird building.’ We love the space, and Don differentiated himself by working with us on the build-out and adding a few features, e.g. extra windows, that he knew we’d like. Don’s energy perfectly matches the intention we have for our space.
- Dr. Evermore’s birds (photo) and the art Don has invested in throughout the campus gin-up our own creativity, and make coming to work a joy.
We are proud to further the energy of this space and grateful for all the fruitfulness it has already provided. In just one month, the space has created noticeable changes in the way we work and communicate, and our ideas have expanded. It’s hard to even call it an office. We have a full kitchen and a nap room. We have board games and puzzles, and eventually we’ll have a Wii. We want people to work - and play, eat, snooze and be inspired - in this space.
Okay, enough. If you’re passing through town or along the bike path and want to experience it yourself, feel free to stop in! But pack your own towel.
