London’s co-working studio complex for creatives Qube has announced a £1.9m funding round.
Led by the Angel CoFund with participation from UK music industry veterans AEI Group and Bernard Kantor, co-founder of Investec, the funding will go towards developing the 16,000 sq. ft. flagship West London site ahead of its relaunch this autumn.
Amin Hamzianpour and Nicholas Sonuga launched Qube in order to provide a vibrant community and unique workspace for the underserved creative sector.
London currently hosts fewer than 20 dedicated music and arts flexible working spaces out of around 14,000 co-working offerings globally.
“Working as a music producer for the past five years, I have struggled tirelessly to find flexible and affordable studio space with a real sense of community,” said Hamzianpour.
“Most creators are facing this same battle; artists, podcasters, songwriters, photographers, youtubers, video editors, directors working from home or in dingy basement studios feeling isolated, with no real sense of belonging.
“We’ve set out to bridge that gap with Qube; a home for a new generation of creators to connect, collaborate and most importantly feel inspired to create their best work.”
Home to over 30 soundproof studios under one roof, Qube will offer a collection of purpose-built music, podcast, photography and video edit facilities, all catering to the needs of today’s artists and creatives.
The range of packages available gives individuals a choice of flexible and affordable co-working solutions, providing members with the space, resources and network needed to write produce and record to a professional level.
Qube is now accepting new members, and the first site will be officially launching in autumn 2019.
Tim Mills, founder partner at the Angel CoFund, said: “We have seen a massive expansion in the co-working market over the past few years, with a wide range of operators bringing much needed choice to serve all types of office workers, but Qube has identified that there is a lack of similar options available for the UK’s flourishing arts and creative industry.
“Amin and Nicholas have a clear vision, borne from their own extensive experience, to give access to tier 1 facilities for creatives across the sector, and bring people together in a vibrant environment where ideas get the best chance to thrive.
“The UK has an incredible creative community, and the Qube will give it space fit for the 21st century.”