The Commons

What began as a single creative workspace in Collingwood, founded by two school friends who wanted to share a studio, The Commons has grown into Australia’s leading flexible workspace. Today, The Commons is a community that now spans 19 locations across Melbourne and Sydney, with our first health club opening next month. This week, our founders, Cliff Ho and Tom Ye, were featured in the The Australian Financial Review, sharing the story behind our growth. It's a milestone that speaks to more than success; it’s a reflection of the people, and members who’ve helped shape The Commons into what it is today. The Commons has always been about connection, creativity, and community. We’re proud of how far we’ve come, and even prouder of the Aussie founders and entrepreneurs who’ve grown with us. Thank you for being part of the journey!

The date is set. On Saturday, 15th November, we open the doors to our first Health Club in Richmond. It’s a milestone moment for us, and we can’t wait to welcome you inside. Follow us on socials for the details of what’s in store. @thecommonshealthclub

A glimpse into the thought and intention behind The Commons Health Club. Working alongside DesignOffice, we’ve drawn inspiration from global wellness spaces to create something truly unique for Melbourne, a place designed with care, intention, and community at its core. We can’t wait to share it with you. https://lnkd.in/gTARzYzy

Richmond came to life on Friday evening to mark the start of the AFL finals, and it was the perfect moment to share a glimpse of The Commons Health Club. As we prepare to open our doors next month, we’re excited to bring a space to Richmond that inspires movement, supports recovery, and elevates everyday wellbeing. Opening November at 33 Cremorne Street.

Founders in Common NSW – 1 Year Anniversary To celebrate our first year, we brought our founder community together at Martin Place for an evening of conversation and inspiration. We were joined by Sam Koslowski, Co-founder of The Daily Aus, fresh from one of the biggest moments in his career, covering one of Australia’s biggest news stories that week. Despite the whirlwind, Sam gave our community his full energy, sharing: • How The Daily Aus started as a side project and grew into Australia’s leading social-first news platform. • The purpose, creative risks, and lessons that shaped their journey. • The incredible story of AFL player Mitch Brown, who trusted them to break his historic story as the first AFL player to come out as bisexual. It was a rare insight into purpose-led entrepreneurship and what founders can achieve when they scale with intention. One year in, Founders in Common continues to bring founders together to learn, connect, and be inspired.

There’s nothing we love more than seeing our community reflected through the words of our members. In his debut book "Accidentally in Charge", Collingwood member Josh Black shares how The Commons played a part in his journey building a business. What he describes captures exactly what makes our spaces so distinctive: the connections, the balance, and the feeling of figuring it out together. And no, we didn’t commission a single word. Congratulations Josh!

Introducing the new heart of The Commons Collins Street, our stylish in-house bar. Here, you’ll find a handpicked selection of seasonal wines, classic cocktails, and small-batch spirits - all thoughtfully chosen to celebrate local makers alongside timeless favourites. Whether you’re after a refreshing afternoon spritz or a perfectly crafted cocktail to unwind after work, you’ll find a drink made just right. Alongside our drinks, the Commons Bar offers a modern Australian menu made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. From seasonal small plates to crowd-pleasing favourites, every bite is designed to complement our curated wine list and cocktail offerings. Our bar is a welcoming spot for members and guests alike - come settle in, catch up, and make yourself at home.

One year ago, we launched Founders in Common - a new initiative designed specifically for founders within The Commons community to deepen connections, foster personal growth, and unlock opportunities for collaboration. Since then, it’s grown into a network of over 900 founders - a collective driven by purpose, progress, and shared experience. Last night in Melbourne, we celebrated at our Collins Street bar with an inspiring conversation led by Simon Griffiths, founder of Who Gives A Crap. From launching with a viral crowdfunding campaign to building a global B Corp that’s donated over $13 million to clean water and sanitation projects - Simon reminded us what purpose-led leadership really looks like. Founders in Common has become more than a series of events, it’s a trusted space where founders connect authentically, share openly, and support each other’s journeys. Thank you to every founder who has joined us, shared your story, and helped build this community. Next, we continue in Sydney later this month with another inspiring guest. 

Since opening The Commons HQ on Collins Street, our team’s daily highlight has been our shared staff lunches. Each day, Chef Frank and the team prepare something new, with no strict brief, just the opportunity to be creative in the kitchen and cook what inspires them. From comforting classics to unexpected favourites, it’s always a welcome surprise. Beyond the food itself, these lunches have become a valued part of our day. They offer a moment to step away from our desks, connect with one another, and enjoy a thoughtful, home-cooked meal together. We’re truly grateful to Frank and the team, their effort and care have added something really special to daily life at The Commons HQ. We’re always looking for like-minded people to join our team - explore our current positions https://lnkd.in/dSiNXi6e

Since announcing The Commons Health Club at the end of May, the response has been overwhelming. Demand has surpassed all expectations, with Founding Memberships now nearing full allocation. This overwhelming interest reflects a growing desire for a more intentional approach to wellness - one that brings movement, recovery and connection together under one roof. We’re grateful to the publications who have thoughtfully captured the vision behind what we’re building. Here are a few of our favourite features so far.