& company Workshop - your space to create by anna lise &company;

anna lise &company;

Sydney

Design & Fashion

A$20,825

of $20,000 targetyrs ago

Successful on 20th Oct 2012 at 1:00AM.

----- UPDATE: 16.01.2013 -----

Hello wonderful supporters!

Click on the Update tab above to hear about the latest developments! Thanks!

Anna Lise + &company team

--------------------------

AN INTRODUCTION: WE ARE &COMPANY

Well, hello there!

My name is Anna Lise De Lorenzo, I'm the director of &company, and along with our (fairly awesome) volunteer team, I'd like to start by saying WELCOME, and thanks for stopping by!

&company is a design studio and broker of creative opportunities.

We mentor product designers, produce a homewares range, curate exhibitions, host events, run classes, and provide access to workshop space and equipment. We are striving to create a community of makers, designers, and creative thinkers, and we would like to invite you to join us.

A LITTLE HISTORY:

THE STORY SO FAR:

&company started in December 2009, with the aim of brokering professional opportunities for emerging product designers to enable them to create and sell new work. Over the last 2.5 years, we have been growing a locally made homewares range, currently comprising work by 9 designers. We have curated countless exhibitions including In Good Company at Object Gallery: Australian Centre for Design. We have also produced exhibitions and events for Sydney Design Festival, Finders Keepers Markets, and recently, VIVID IDEAS.

THE CHALLENGE:

In the process of developing new designs (including liaising with local makers and manufacturers, getting products to market etc.) the biggest challenges are in the prototyping and production phases. There is NO WHERE TO GO. And if designers are finding this a challenge, what about the rest of the community?

As we have been building this little venture, it has become clear that there is ONE BIG CHALLENGE. If we are to truly support local designers and makers, to enable them to launch and grow creative enterprises, we need to provide access to SPACES and EQUIPMENT. A workshop allows us to test ideas, play, experiment, prototype and importantly, to produce new work.

THE TEST-RUN:

In April 2012, we moved to The Rocks (supported by the SHFA Rocks Pop-Up Project) for a 6 month term. Our aim was to set up a small workshop (in addition to a store and small gallery) to test our idea on the public. We have been running an incredibly popular short-course program. With our fantastic temporary location next to the Museum of Contemporary Art, we have been meeting and talking to many new friends. It is clear that Sydney needs a space where creative people (from professionals to the creatively curious) can meet, learn new skills, make things and grow their businesses.

WHAT IS THE PROJECT?

We are going to set up an open-access co-working facility: A creative hub where anyone can come and use spaces, tools and equipment to work or dabble. What will it include? The extent of the project is dependent on the funds that you raise with us.

THE DREAM:

4 x WORKSHOPS:

A large warehouse/industrial space with professional quality workshops for:

- CNC shop - router, laser cutter

- Wood Shop

- Metal Shop

- Ceramics Shop

2 x SPECIALTY STUDIOS:

Studios and workspaces for:

- Photography Studio (especially product photography)

- Casual Access desk space with Wifi.

AND ALL OUR USUAL OFFERINGS:

- &company Store: stocking locally designed and made products, including "Made In the Workshop" curated selections of pieces made by our members.

- &company Gallery: with rotating exhibitions

- Pie Nights: (mixing our most loved things: Design, Food, Conversation)

- Short Course Programs: we currently offer a broad range, including beginners woodwork, ceramics, silver jewellery, film making, professional development classes and more.

WHEN IS THIS HAPPENING?

We intend to be open and fully operational before Christmas. This means that the pressure is on, and we need to start securing pledges right now!

Our time in The Rocks ends at the close of September. We are looking for a new, permanent/long-term home so that we can really establish the &co workshops.

We need to secure a home (which is where this campaign comes in!), and hope to be setup and open to the public within a month of moving.

We have begun looking at possible premises, and we have begun contacting equipment and tool suppliers to seek out support (full or partial sponsorship arrangements).

WHAT IS OUR FUNDING GOAL? & WHAT WILL WE DO WITH THE CASH?

We have two goals for this project:

INITIAL GOAL: $20,000

- Bond and first few months rent to secure a new premises

- Funds to do a basic fit-out of the new space so it is safe, functional, and lovely to work in

We will build on our current tool library through sponsorship campaigns and donations.

IDEAL GOAL: $50,000

The more you contribute, the greater the scope of what we deliver for you:

- Anything over the initial goal will enable us to purchase some exciting big machinery so we have seriously great tools for you to use.

- It will also enable us to fit out the workshop with 4 smaller studios so that we can offer a "designer in residence" program to incubate designers for 12 month periods.

- If we reach over $50,000, we would be eligible to apply for a matching grant to truly kickstart the project. This means that every dollar you generously contribute, will be doubled. Amazing!

WHY IS OUR PROJECT WORTHY OF YOUR HARD EARNED DOLLARS?

The success of this project directly impacts your own creative opportunities. If you, or someone you know or love would benefit from access to a workshop and to classes, this is for you. If you are seeking a place you can call "home", where your peers and community can congregate to create, to share skills and to build enterprises alongside hobbies, then THIS IS FOR YOU.

We will take care of all the stuff that makes doing this sort of thing hard: We'll maintain the equipment, we'll facilitate bookings and access times, we'll coordinate really exciting class programs that continue to respond to your needs and wants.

This is an opportunity for you to truly impact and grow Sydney's creative culture.

WHAT ARE THE REWARDS WE ARE OFFERING?

JOIN US IN BUILDING A CREATIVE EMPIRE:

Rewards start with the practical to the downright pleasurable!

Pledge the value of a tub of nails, a tin of paint, a plank of wood, a sheet of ply, and if we reach our goal, we'll use that cash to make the spaces come together.

- You can learn new skills in One-On-One classes of your choosing, tailored to your needs.

- You can support us through your business and host your Christmas Party at &company, and even join us for High Tea.

- Depending on the value of your pledge, we will be adding your name to our Wall of Champions: a giant installation that identifies by name or business name, all those truly wonderful people who have championed &company.

- On top of all this, the team at &co is also getting busy, making a limited edition series of little porcelain salt/pepper/dipping oil dishes to commemorate the campaign. Check out the rewards to find out how to get your hands on them!

HOW WILL WE KEEP IN TOUCH WITH OUR SUPPORTERS DURING THE PROCESS AND WHEN IT IS COMPLETED?

We're pretty good at keeping in touch, via our mailing list (sign up at www.andcompany.com.au), facebook (&company) and twitter @andcompany_

We'll keep you updated as we find a home, you'll be the first to know about the tools and equipment we secure, and opportunities for you to come and play. It's going to be one hell of a ride!

WANT TO DONATE SOMETHING THAT'S NOT CASH?

We wil happily take properties (min 500sqm) or tools and equipment, just shoot us an email if you have something that you are happy to pass on and we can chat about the details ... hello(at)andcompany(dot)com(dot)au

THANK YOU

For your time, your support and for putting the wind under our wings to help this project fly. We look forward to making with you soon!

Send your questions to [email protected]

Anna Lise De Lorenzo & the &company Team

------

Photos of our amazing pledgers so far are here. Come by anytime 10-5, Weds - Sunday to get your snap taken too!

Original 6 minute video pitch, with loads of pics and some lovely words from our designers, makers, and supporters is here.

NAILS, SCREWS, GLUES: HOLD THE SHOW TOGETHER Help us build the creative empire: we know the devil is in the details – you could hold us together by pledging the value of a few nails or screws. Your name will go on our website Page of Champions (as thanks for championing our cause!).

8 chosen

Est. delivery is Nov 12

BRICKS & STICKS: BUILD AN EMPIRE! Buy us a Brick or a plank of wood (Stick), the building blocks of the workshop. Piece by Piece you’ll build an empire with us. Your name on our website Page of Champions, your name on our Wall of Champions – an installation in the workshop with the names (personal or business) of those who championed the cause!

22 chosen

Est. delivery is Nov 12

HOME RUN! *New Reward, last 2 weeks!* Be one of the final 500 amazing pledgers, pitching in to make the project happen! Your name on our website Page of Champions, your name on our Wall of Champions – an installation in the workshop with the names (personal or business) of those who championed the cause! PLUS be in the running to get access to the workshop, one of 5 invites to Pie Night, and more!

30 chosen / 470 available

Est. delivery is Dec 12

PAINT THE TOWN RED Contribute a tin of paint so we can make your workshop look and feel great! Your name on our website Page of Champions, your name (personal or business) on our Wall of Champions – (see details in description).

12 chosen

Est. delivery is Nov 12

PLYTASTIC Buy a sheet of plywood, so that we can make walls, doors, work-benches and more. + Your name on our website Page of Champions, your name on our Wall of Champions. + One limited edition little salt bowl, hand made by the &co; team in glazed porcelain. Signed and dated by the maker. Postage additional (or come and collect from the new workshop!)

47 chosen

Est. delivery is Nov 12

TWO DAYS IN THE WORKSHOP! A gift voucher for your first two days in the Workshop, free! Get trained in workshop proficiency, and the start your first project! Design, build, make, fix, repair…. And enjoy! + Your name on our website Page of Champions, your name on our Wall of Champions.

27 chosen

Est. delivery is Dec 12

HAND-TOOL NAMING RIGHTS For a tool of this value or less. Whether it’s Chris the Chisel or Henry the Hammer, every time someone borrows that tool, they’ll know of your amazing contribution. + Your name on our website Page of Champions, and our Wall of Champions. + Hand written thank you postcard, limited edition letter-pressed. + 1 limited edition, little porcelain salt dish, hand made by the &co; team. Signed & dated by the maker. Postage additional (or collect from the new workshop!)

26 chosen

Est. delivery is Dec 12

A WEEK IN THE WORKSHOP A 5 day week, where you can come in and create to your hearts content – this is a chance to come and play, to make things, experiment, tackle a larger project! +Your name on our website Page of Champions, your name on our Wall of Champions.

9 chosen

Est. delivery is Dec 12

SMALL-TOOL NAMING RIGHTS For a tool of this value or less. Boris the Belt Sander, Dominic the Drill Press, or Katherine the Kiln, every time someone borrows that tool, they’ll know of your amazing contribution. + Your name on our website Page of Champions, and our Wall of Champions. + Hand written thank you postcard, limited edition letter-pressed. + 1 limited edition little porcelain salt bowl, hand made by the &co;. Postage additional (or collect from the new workshop!)

2 chosen

Est. delivery is Nov 12

PIE NIGHT: VIP GUEST OF HONOUR AND JUDGE Our Pie Night’s are a fusion of our three favourite things: food, design, & great company. Join us as the guest of honour and judge the best pies of the night. + Name on the Wall of Champions. + Hand written thank you postcard, limited edition letter-pressed. + 1 limited edition little porcelain salt bowl, hand made by the &co;. Postage additional (or come and collect from the new workshop!).

1 chosen

Est. delivery is Dec 12

HIGH TEA IN THE THE CHAOS In the midst of the new fit-out, we will down-tools, lay out a table cloth, and host you and a guest for high-tea in the workshop. You are welcome to lend a hand, or just enjoy an afternoon with the team. See behind the scenes, and maybe even pick our brains for future projects. + Your name on our website Page of Champions, and our Wall of Champions. + 1 limited edition little porcelain salt bowl, hand made by the &co; - collect from the new workshop!

3 chosen / 17 available

Est. delivery is Nov 12

SUPERSTAR CORPORATE PARTNER Want your enterprise to come and use the workshop? This reward is for businesses who want to pledge their support and see the workshop come to life... so they can use it too! 2 free annual membership passes and 30 hours total free (standard) access. + Thank you postcard, name/logo on Page/Wall of champions as above! + 2 pairs Salt/Pepper dishes, as above!

2 chosen

Est. delivery is Oct 12

GET SWEET SKILLS! One-on-One private tuition: 6 hours with your choice of a Ceramics, Jewellery or Woodwork teacher. Can be used over a 3 month period. + Your name on our website Page of Champions, your name on our Wall of Champions. + 1 limited edition little porcelain salt bowl, hand made by the &co;. Collect from the new workshop!

1 chosen / 39 available

Est. delivery is Dec 12

&COMPANY; WORKSHOP MENTORSHIP 1 hour a week for 12 weeks. Receive one-on-one guidance as you create a new work or body of work from members of the &co; team. + Your name on our website Page of Champions, and our Wall of Champions. + 1 limited edition little porcelain salt bowl, hand made by the &co;. Postage additional (or come and collect from the new workshop!)

1 chosen / 5 available

Est. delivery is Dec 12

GET EVEN MORE SWEET SKILLS! One-on-One private tuition: 12 hours with your choice of a Ceramics, Jewellery or Woodwork teacher (can be used over a 3 month period) + Your name on our website Page of Champions, and our Wall of Champions. + 1 limited edition set of little porcelain salt+pepper bowls, hand made by the &co;. Come in and collect from the new workshop!

0 chosen / 10 available

Est. delivery is Dec 12

BIG-TOOL NAMING RIGHTS For a tool of approx this value. Suzie the Band Saw or Lewis the Laser Cutter– get your name on an awesome piece of machinery, so every time someone uses it, they can send you bucket loads of gratitude and appreciation! + Postcard, Page/Wall of Champions & set Salt+Pepper dishes, as above. + 15% discount on membership for the first year (transferable)

0 chosen

Est. delivery is Nov 12

DINNER PARTY AT &CO; Use our space to host your own dinner party for up to 20 guests: bring your closest friends, staff or clients to an unforgettable evening. Use dinner settings by our designers around our big table. Choose to arrange catering or do it &co; style- set your guests a culinary challenge: BYOpie! +Your name on our website Page of Champions, and as a Gold Champion on our Wall of Champions + Set of 20 limited edition signed salt/dipping oil dishes – for each guest

0 chosen / 10 available

Est. delivery is Dec 12

BIG-CHEESE CORPORATE PARTNER This reward is for businesses who want to pledge their support and see the workshop come to life... so they can use it too! 6 free annual membership passes and 2-days free (standard) access per member. + A free class for a group of up to 6 (in woodwork, ceramics, electronics, etc.) + Thank you postcard, name/logo on Page/Wall of champions as above! + Set 10 Salt/Pepper dishes, as above! + 10% membership discount for your members or other staff (by negotiation)

0 chosen

Est. delivery is Oct 12

STUDIO NAMING RIGHTS Name one of 4 studios for use by our 12 month Designer In Residence program. Everyone will see your name of choice(personal, business, other) when they come to the workshop. + Thank you card. Name/logo on Page/Wall of Champions as above. + your members/staff receive 10% off membership (by negotiation) + Set of 24 limited edition salt+pepper bowls to use and to gift. + All outgoing media will feature your name or logo as a Gold Supporter (1st 12 months). +happy to discuss!

0 chosen / 4 available

Est. delivery is Dec 12