Check-in to Miami's sweet new co-working and events space.
Check-in to Miami's sweet new co-working and events space.
How good is making new friends in a sweet, good time space while pretending to work but really just watching animal docos? So good, gang.
In an (un)surprising turn of events, you can now do all of those things at the Coast’s sweet new co-working and events space in the suburb that may just be our new fave – Miami.
The gist is this. Lemana Lane is a kind of urban, cool kids paradise that was once only home to mechanics and warehouses hording who knows what. Now though, it’s a place you definitely want to be, what with the recent opening of Hotel Miami and a coming soon gin distillery.
Hotel Miami’s creators realised the areas potential far before the rest of us, nabbed themselves a warehouse space and filled it with all kinds of goodies. There’s velvet couches, handmade desks (ask ‘em how that went down) perfect for Insta-snaps, a dartboard and best of all, a Yamaha parked right in front of a neon sign that reads “fuck yeah”.
Oh and there’s a photo studio too. See, good times.
The idea was to open a space that would allow co-owner Nick to escape from the confines of his bedroom and a cat whose actual name is Winston Smushface.
Jokes. It was so Nick, along with his fiancé Jessie (the boss) and mate Darran, could create a place to hang out with other creatives, “work” on their various other businesses and create a fun little Miami community. They adapted a community event they used to attend in Venice Beach where local businesses would come together and showcase their goods while also making rad new friends.
The point is, you can rent one of those handmade desks for a day or on a fulltime basis (recommended for bulk good times) and there are upstairs offices up for grabs too.
The photo studio can also be hired for any fun projects you’ve got going on and there’s super speedy Internet and everyone’s other favourite thing – air conditioning.
As of April 6th there’ll be an event on the first Friday of every month (dubbed First Friday to make writing about it easier) that’ll showcase local artists and finally bring Gold Coasters the live music we need and deserve.
Whether you’re in the market for a new workspace or not, get down there and check it out, the crew are keen to meet all the like-minded creatives they can muster.
And they’re not bad at hilarious banter either.
LOCATION: 1/49 Lemana Lane, Miami
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
Wednesday is usually not the day associated with cool events, but it is now!
Tucked away on a Miami side street is Miami Marketta.
Known as the Gold Coast’s weekend spot for tasty street food, fun cocktails, boutique shopping and a live band, the Miami Marketta is all around awesome, but a seemingly little known fact is that Miami Marketta is not just for the weekenders! You can experience Marketta’s awesomeness 4 nights a week!
I’m a big fan of the Miami Marketta and have done some serious eating there more than a handful of times over past weekends, but I had my maiden voyage to a Wednesday Marketta last week. Imma tell you about it…
Firstly, parking was a breeze! A sign for good things to come. As I made my way to the entrance it started to drizzle. As a former weekend Marketta-er I was a bit bummed because Ithought that would mean standing in the rain to wait for my food. – NOT ON A WEDNESDAY!
Wednesday is tapas night at Miami Marketta and they host a smaller selection of vendors, which means that they all fit under the twinkly lit steel canopy.
On weekends long rows of communal tables occupy the space under the shelter of the canopy pushing the vendors outside. During the week the tables are turned to stand alone making for a more intimate setting amongst friends, and creating covered space for the vendors to set up. (Keep that in mind for rainy days)
Now, just because Wednesdays do not boast the same number of vendors as the weekends do, it does not mean there is any shortage of flavour or options. One of my favourite things about Miami Marketta whether it be a weekday or weekend is that it’s ethnically ambiguous. In a few short steps, you can go from smelling the frying corn chips at the Mexican stand, to the mouth-watering meat being grilled for the Mediterranean salads and kebabs. The smell of a wood fired oven filled with Italian pizzas mixes with the sweet scents of Belgian waffles and it’s a glorious overload making it nearly impossible to choose just one thing. –But on Wednesday you don’t have to, nor should you! All dishes start at $6 so the tasting and sharing is easy and inexpensive!
In front of flamingo wallpaper is a liquor bar specialising in hand crafted cocktails and beside that was the coffee and sweets bar. The coffee bar wasn’t that popular in the late evening, but the cocktail bar was pumping. Drinks served in glass jars were adorned with funky fun straws and tasted like sweet sweet love. If you were in the mood to keep your drinks simple, they had a nice selection of beer and wine.
And just because the coffee bar wasn’t popping at night, doesn’t mean you should skip out on it. Marketta Cafe is open Tuesday – Saturday starting at 6am to fill all your early morning coffee needs!
The Marketta celebrates the arts and always has something nice going on to feed your soul and not just your mouth.
Wednesdays there is a DJ spinning relaxed beats and this particular Wednesday there was a local designer putting on a fashion show. The mix of two was such a treat. Not your usual Wednesday night dinner entertainment 🙂
Boutique shops sold mostly homewares and clothes. art. -All very cool pieces I might add!
The grill smoke trapped by the rain swirled against the ceiling, models strutted in casually elegant clothes, the DJ spun smooth tempos, the food was tasty and cheap, and the patrons were delightfully hip and laid back.
Successful Wednesday night.
Miami Marketta is open
Wed 5p-10p
Fri 5p-11p
Sat 4p-11p
Get in loser, we’re going shopping (and eating, and brewery-hopping, and sight seeing, and exploring street art, and… you get the idea)
Now you might be wondering why we’re throwing around random movie quotes to kick off this list (in our defence there is a Mean Girls line for *every* occasion) – but if suburbs were Mean Girls characters, Miami would for sure be the one to utter this iconic line. Miami has it all, and it knows it. Take one glance at just some of the epic spots we’ve lined up and you’ll soon see why all the other suburbs wish they could be this cool.
Paddock Bakery
One thing locals know, is the only thing loose in this (top) paddock is only the most scrumptious, buttery baked goods in 4220. Ever since Paddock opened it’s charmingly renovated doors in 2014, locals have been flocking there daily for their much-kneaded Paddock fix.
Reigning supreme as our baked-goods, brunch and lunch hookup ever since, the ex-Queenslander-turned-treehouse-of-our-childhood-dreams has expanded to welcome us and our relentless sweet tooth’s with open arms. With the lush gardens, cottage, loft, rooftop and barn to retreat to, the only thing more extensive than the dining space options is the menu to indulge from.
Where: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Miami
Granddad Jacks
It used to be that Granddads were good for stealing our noses and sneaking us butter candy, but in Miami, Granddad Jacks is good for plying us the finest locally distilled spirits, gin making classes, distillery tours and of course and just an all-round cool haunt to sit back with a top notch bevvy and let our mullets run free. These masterful wizards didn’t amass a whopping 70+ awards by getting distracted by anything other than distilling, so it’s BYO food too (and surely that means more to spend on the good stuff!)
Where: 45 Lemana Lane, Miami
Miami Fish Market
It would be shell-fish of us not to include the absolute pearl that is Miami Fish Market, and we have two words for you: Sashimi box. Soy-n us up, pls! Fin-ally, we have a hook up for the finest and freshest seafood that’s a sure thing (unlike heading home empty handed from your holy grail fishing spot). Also unlike a day on the water, the pros will handle all the dirty work so you can do as much or as little as you like – oysters shucked to order, anyone?!
Where: 1/54 Paradise Ave, Miami
Pizzey Park
Wine not take those fresh sucked oysters to-go and mosey right on over for a bougie picnic at the picturesque Pizzey park. As one of the biggest parks on the GC, Pizzey is a local icon and hub for sports, clubs, recreation and all round fun times for all ages. There’s an aquatic centre, playgrounds galore, a wheely epic skate park and let’s not forget the off-leash dog area for our four legged BFFs (paw out of five dogs agree Pizzey is the best park for zoomies on the GC)
Where: 80 Pacific Ave, Miami
Miami Marketta
The Coast’s OG street food night markets that put Miami on the map as a must-visit destination for foodies and live music lovers alike. The first venue of it’s kind to Miami and perhaps even the Coast, Marketta quickly grew to establish itself as a mainstay among the GC scene, bringing good vibes, live music and great food galore via the eclectic creative and cultural hotspot for over ten years now. Our beloved market brings us all our favourite tastes of the world as well as that same buzzing atmosphere that’s favoured by families especially, for rounding up their rowdy broods for an easy night out that everyone can enjoy.
Where: 23 Hillcrest Pde, Miami
UGG Since 1974
With the hotter weather officially taking some mercy on us now we’ve packed away the budgie smugglers and it’s the perfect time to slip into something a little more cosy. Enter, Ugg Since 1974 – churning out wearable warm hugs for your feet since, well, 1974. Don’t be feeling sheepish if you didn’t know they’ve expanded their range to include a huge selection of colours, styles and options to customise – including monogramming (cute!) through to paw-dorable pet accessories (even cuter!) With factory tours running right out of Miami, the only thing better than supporting local, is treating your tootsies to a cloud-nine experience in the process.
Where: 23 Christine Ave, Miami
Lumber Punks
Ever find yourself struck by the sudden and insatiable urge to don your flanno’s and yeet sharp objects at the wall? Okay so perhaps not, but when your usual rotation of outings is just not cutting it anymore – it might be time to hit up Lumber Punks because you really can’t axe for a better way to get the crew together for some laughs or some fun date night axe-ction. If you haven’t yet tried your hand at the phenomenon that is axe throwing, chop chop – because this is one adventure that brings the axe-mosphere in blades (er, spades, rather). If it’s good enough for Jason Momoa, it’s obvs good enough for us.
Where: 19 Ozone Pde, Miami
Miami Hill
Okay, now it just feels like Miami is showing off and 469 (no kidding) google reviews can’t be wrong. At first glance those deceptively colourful trademark stairs might look all sunshine and rainbows, but one thing’s for sure – conquer that climb and you will be rewarded with one of the best vantages on the coast. With stunning views of the coastline from Surfers right down to Burleigh, there’s only one thing left to say: How’s. the. serenity. (and maybe a hearty dose of *heavy breathing* depending on how many times you decide to take on those stairs #cardi-no thanks)
Where: At the south end of Miami (you can’t miss it)
Trader Trove
Trader Trove, more like treasure trove. Welcome to Miami’s own worldly homewares haven for those who prefer their interiors on the luxe side – and their swoon-worthy assortment of bohemian inspired home decor, that’s more expertly curated than an influencers insta feed.
We love: a family run local biz with a dreamy selection of ethically minded homewares. We don’t love: that all self control seems to exit our body when we visit.
Where: 22 Christine Ave, Miami
Ferg’s
You no longer need a certified 90’s banger to be proclaiming ‘fergalicious (so delicious)’ because ever since Fergs moved to town we’ve had an excuse to be saying it daily. For the unacquainted – f.e.r.g.s aka Fresh Eats Really Good Sh*t – has been dishing up breakfast and brunch much to the delight of southern GC, with all the staple brunch suspects you’d expect, but also the likes of Lemon Meringue Crumpets and really, need we say more?
Where: 2/43 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
Street art
It’s no secret us Gold Coasters are quite partial to doing what we can to our put our best #lewks forward, and over the last few years the streets of Miami have also been undergoing somewhat of a glow up themselves (and #spoileralert – there’s no filler to be found here folks). If it’s been a while between visits, it might surprise you to learn the suburb is at the heart of a thriving GC art and cultural boom, with a bunch of incredible artists transforming the local laneways into a destination in and of themselves. There’s even the Art Roll website dedicated to mapping out the best routes for your own self-led street art tour.
And the event that started the movement, Surface Festival returns for it’s third year this July, set to transform the local footpaths, fence lines, laneways and walls with some art-mazing fresh new works to admire and we’re here. for. it.
Where: Check the Art Roll website for locations
Precinct Brewing Co
If you’ve worked up a thirst just reading this list – last but by no means least is everyone’s (yep, we called it) favourite brewery, Precinct Brewing Co. Once you’ve stepped through the doors you’ll be welcomed into a sleek, all-white space with greenery dripping from up high, and an absolute slew of tanks brewing up some tasty treats. You can see why people say, it’s the place to beer! Don’t forget to grab one of the tasty pizzas coming from the onsite kitchen too…
Where: 17 Christine Ave, Miami
One of the benefits of the pandemic was undoubtedly the widespread acceptance of working from home. You escape the daily commute, and you can casually hop on Zoom calls fresh out of bed.
However, fast forward a smidge and the shine begins to fade on WFH. You inevitably miss putting on nice clothes, washing your face and interacting with other humans IRL.
Enter the co-working space. The ultimate inbetween. Gone are the days of sitting in a cafe corner, nursing a two hour old long black while stealthily avoiding the disapproving glances of the cafe staff.
Coworking spaces are more than just places to work – they’re dynamic hubs that foster collaboration, idea sharing, and the vibrant energy of working alongside other professionals throughout the day. Our list of coworking venues is bound to ignite your creativity and make the hours until 5pm fly by. Embrace the flexibility and convenience that these coworking spaces offer, and say goodbye to the traditional office grind.
CoSPACES – Old Station Co. Southport
The biggest name in local coworking spaces, CoSPACES have a number of sites around the suburb of Southport. Their original space, however, is the Old Station Co. which is home to everything from private rooms to communal areas and is complete with outdoor areas and a coffee shop for when it’s time to step away from that blue light. Located on Nerang Street, Southport (and directly in front of G:Link Southport station) the space is next door to epic rooftop bar and deli, Mr PP’s. CoSPACES also has a photography studio and perfect little event space so you can host or get involved in anything your heart desires. Should you be the social type, you’ll be pleased to hear there is a sizeable contingent of local legends hanging out — sorry, working — here too.
Where: 45 Nerang Street, Southport
Flockd
Flockd is the daydream you once had of an idyllic office somewhere mashed with the upbeat and cosmopolitan vibes of Burleigh Heads. The result is dreamy, minimalistic style furnishings with airy and light surrounds, creating a mini utopia of productive behaviour and inspired work. You have the option of two slightly different buildings right next to each other where long-termers and hot-deskers converge as one. There’s even an adjoining café and day spa thrown in there for good measure, and all of the dogs are made most welcome — hopefully, they don’t distract you too much, though.
Where: 4 Starling Street, Burleigh Heads
The Productive GC
The Productive GC is the handiwork of mother/daughter duo Ashley and Angelique, and hats off to them: we can’t help but notice the place is teeming with good vibes. You can expect an all-white space and hanging plants and lolly jars scattered everywhere, ohh and the very best part is, you can BYO pets. That’s right, there are numerous dogs in residence on any given day, and you can take as many pat and stroke breaks as you need. The space lives on Upton Street, and there’s parking for days, which is nothing short of super convenient. Then throw in the fact you are central to everyone and everything in our city, and you’re onto a winner.
Where: Unit 5/21-23 Upton Street, Bundall
SOAK Bathhouse
Yep, you read that correctly. SOAK’s cowork space is where wellness meets work, allowing you to “WFH” (Wellness From Here) and supercharge your productivity. The coworking area is an open-plan communal workspace equipped with essential amenities like WiFi, air conditioning, and restroom and shower facilities. But here’s the kicker – you can turn your workday into a spa day with their “Soak & Work” deal, giving you access to the Bathhouse while you hustle. And if you’re just in need of a spot to type away, they’ve got half and full-day access to the cowork zone.
Where: 2532 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
WOTSO WorkSpace
Anywhere with a ping pong table that actively encourages you to rally with your co-workers between emails and proofreading documents will find its way onto this list. Of course, there are also meeting rooms with funky wallpaper and leafy green views, the highest speed Internet we’ve ever experienced, lounge-style spaces, phone booths and of course, desks for the actual working. The Varsity Lakes space is part of a larger organisation, which boasts over 20 sites across Australia, combining a rich culture of work provoking energy and offering full 24/7 access and all of the other perks to its permanent members. Coming soon to Robina Town Centre.
Where: Level 2, 194 Varsity Parade, Varsity Lakes
Blank Space Coworking
Coworking right in the heart of James St AND discounts to Local? Blank Space had us at hello. This boutique coworking space is thoughtfully designed to foster a tight-knit professional community where like-minded individuals and businesses thrive together. Here, you can craft your own workspace, collaborate collectively, and tap into the dynamic energy of Burleigh Heads, surrounded by its fantastic cafes, restaurants, bars, and just a stone’s throw away from the beautiful beach. With features like permanent reserved spaces, 24/7 access, business-grade internet, and more, Blank Space Coworking is your ideal base for growing and building your business.
Where: Level 1/33 James St, Burleigh Heads
Flex by Abacus, The Broadbeach Office
Located within The Oasis Shopping Centre, ‘Flex by Abacus’ is now a proud resident of The Broadbeach Office, a brand-new precinct that promises a workspace like no other. ‘Flex by Abacus’ caters to businesses of all sizes, offering flexible lease terms, from shared offices for solo entrepreneurs to spacious suites accommodating up to 30 desks. This modern and refined space features top-tier kitchen amenities, comfortable breakout zones, well-equipped meeting rooms, and private pods for focused work. As an added bonus there are stunning ocean views and it’s conveniently located next to some of the GC’s most renowned cafes and eateries.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Charles Ave, Broadbeach
Words by Alex Mitcheson and Belinda Symons.
