Out of the office

There is an unexplainable feeling about working in an office that can make many of us feel grumpy just thinking about the things we have to accomplish in a day. But what if you had a chance to change your workplace once in a while, to a place not too far from the office, but with a relaxing atmosphere that offers space for creative thought?

Since opening a couple of months ago, The Third Place has been that option for laptop-carrying professionals seeking a change in workplace for them to relax, mingle and actually get their work done.

On the top floor of a modern building on the corner of Thonglor Soi 10, The Third Place is a part of the small building that is cleverly divided into shops, nail and massage salons, a wine cellar and a bookstore. The Third Place is a public work and meeting space with office facilities open for both one-time visitors and members.

Among them is Peter Brown, a Thonglor area resident who brings his work to the club, finishes it off with help from a good cup of coffee and connects to the outside world via wireless, high-speed Internet. For him, a change in the usual boring work environment helps boost his creativity.

"I usually work from home, which is not far away from here," says Brown, a German. "But whenever I feel stuck, I bring my laptop here to work. Sometimes it helps to be outside for just a moment. Some of us tend to do better when we are exposed to a new environment and changing the working environment makes my work easier."

The Third Place has two big work tables with lines of chairs. While many people bring their own laptops, the place also has free computers for users who just want to browse the Web. For those who want to read or work in private corners, there are chaise lounges and sofas.

Printers, copiers as well as mobile phone chargers are available. There are stacks of the latest magazines and newspapers, as well as ports for iPods and private headphones. Coffee and other beverages are served, along with sandwiches, cakes and light, one-dish meals.

If you need to meet with a group, there are meeting rooms for rent.

"It is great for me because I have my own small company and we can migrate here for some brainstorming whenever we feel bored in our office," says Panprom Ponsakul, a graphic designer whose office is nearby. "Sometimes it is not all about work, but about meeting new people and seeing how they go about their business. Seeing what others are doing can give us new ideas, too."

A one-day membership starts at Bt100, or monthly for Bt599. Group membership for six people (Bt2,500 a month) entitles the group to use the Idea Room for five hours for free. Membership also brings drink discounts.

Parking can be a problem, as it is anywhere in Thonglor. If you must drive, the earlier you show up, the better. After the lunch hour, you'd be better off parking elsewhere and hitching a tuk tuk or red bus for your own sanity.

The Third Place

Corner of Thonglor Soi 10

Daily, 9am - 10pm

(02) 714 7929 ext 401

www.thirdplacebangkok.com

Sirin P Wongpanit  

The writer can be reached at www.ohsirin.blogspot.com.