Co-working space in Mansfield now open to serve the varied needs of working professionals

A new type of professional office space is available in Richland County.

"A co-working space is what it's typically called," Jeff Schultheis, the venue's owner, explained.

Connection Space opened this month at 879 Park Avenue West in Mansfield.

The facility features two offices with desks, two conference rooms with a table and chairs, a common area complete with a couch, chairs, and television, and a kitchen with a microwave, coffee maker and more.

Highspeed wireless internet is available throughout Connection Space.

"They would just come in and pay a daily rate, or they could pay a monthly rate," Schultheis said. "If they sign a longer-term lease, they can lock the doors, put file cabinets in, secure it and make it their office."

'Bigger cities have a bunch of them'

The realtor has been dreaming of offering a shared working space in the area for several years.

"All the bigger cities have a bunch of them and now smaller cities around us are starting to get them," Schultheis said. "We've modeled this one after the COhatch in Columbus; they're branching out all across the country."

When the vacant office space became available, the realtor said he seized the opportunity to make his dream a reality.

He expects professionals from across the nation to soon begin using the space as they travel to businesses and attractions throughout North Central Ohio.

"There's a national company that registers all co-working spaces," Schultheis said. "Somebody can go onto there and find us."

What does the co-working space offer in Mansfield?

Local professionals are expected to take advantage of Connection Space as well. The venue is billed as serving individuals, groups and companies.

The space can help fulfill office needs of all types for any duration.

"They can come in, relax and sit down," Schultheis said. "They might want to have private phone calls and meetings, so they can use the private office."

Pricing is $25 for one day of office use, and monthly membership beginning at $99 per month allow extended access to amenities.

"Members can come and will have access 24/7," Schultheis said. "If you're not a member and a day rate person, you'd have to come through at normal regular hours, which is 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m."

Members can use the space as their business mailing address for as little as $25 per month.

The conference rooms can be rented out for meetings at a rate of $100 for the first two hours, then $40 per hour after.

The common area may be reserved for corporate events, graduations and parties at a rate of $495 for five hours.

To learn more, visit Connection Space online at connectionspace.work.

ztuggle@gannett.com

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