Bright Floors, Big Ideas: Studio ONO Spaces’ Journey from Workspace to Event Space

Nestled in the heart of Hackney’s vibrant London Fields, Studio ONO Spaces is more than just a workspace—it’s a dynamic hub of creativity, innovation, and community. Designed by architect Alex, founder of Alexander Hills Architects, the studio was envisioned as a place where design ideas could flourish. But over time, it has evolved into a multifaceted venue where work and play coexist seamlessly.

Initially, the studio functioned solely as a workspace. However, with its unique layout and underutilized off-hours, Alex saw an opportunity. “The space isn’t filled 24/7, and it felt like a waste,” Alex explains. “Hosting events adds a social dimension, which aligns with our human-centric approach to design. It’s been a lot of fun.”

Studio ONO Spaces stands out for its playful and unconventional design. Its bright yellow floor—a long-held design dream—imbues the space with energy. Custom-designed elements like movable tables, rough poured concrete, and flexible layouts enable the space to adapt to a variety of events, from intimate gatherings to panel discussions.

“We’ve designed the studio to serve as a testing ground for our architectural ideas,” Alex says. “Everything from the tables to the compositions reflects our design ethos. It’s not just a space; it’s an experience.” Many of the items in the space have been handmade by Alex himself, including the 5m yellow table, which is a staple feature of the space.

Turning a workspace into an event venue comes with its challenges. Noise, wear and tear, and managing expectations were among the hurdles Studio ONO Spaces faced. “We’ve evolved our event guidelines to be more comprehensive and now have a regular cleaner come in the day after events—it’s been a game-changer,” Alex notes.

Adapting the space for versatility has also been key. Plans are underway to add a 9.5-meter curtain rail for creating private nooks and improving acoustics. The studio’s flexibility has proven invaluable, hosting everything from children’s birthday parties and book launches to community events and production shoots.

For those looking to transform a space into a unique event venue, Alex offers this advice: “Embrace whimsy.”

“To create a space that resonates, think about what makes you happy and sparks emotion. Whether it’s a bold color, an unexpected form, or playful details, don’t shy away from the unconventional. Whimsy is imagination—it brings interest and joy,” Alex explains.

As Studio ONO Spaces looks to the next few years, its goal is to continue growing and adapting while staying true to its ethos of creativity and community. Whether as a bustling workspace or a lively community event venue, Studio ONO Spaces remains a testament to the transformative power of thoughtful design.