What's it Like to Work at The Ministry? We Spend a Day in the Office

A sister company to the Ministry of Sound nightclub, this workspace – which was once a Victorian printworks – blends opulence and industrial style. Here’s what it’s like to work at The Ministry.

You can spot The Ministry a mile away thanks to a shiny quirk that’s sure to catch your eye – a melting disco ball hanging over the building’s doorway. You wouldn’t think this was a coworking space. In fact, as I walked in and saw a bright red heart hanging on the back wall, I had to ask to be sure. But it is, and a very unique one at that. It’s a powerhouse for all kinds of businesses keen to grow and nurture their teams, and that’s clear from the outset.

In fact, all types of businesses call these four floors of high-end office space home. From one-person startups to scale-ups of 200, The Ministry supports creatives, accountants, lawyers and many more.

After a friendly greeting at reception, I make my way into what feels like a cool hotel lobby. Inside, the communal floor splits in half: the bar on the left and the deli on right. Though they share the same 80 ft long bar, they have their own unique vibes.

In the bar area, conversations are energetic and collaborative. Glasses clink, a stage is being set up for a ‘Women in Music’ event, and two colleagues browse through fabrics on a velvet sofa. In the deli area, workers tap away behind laptops. Lattes are made, sandwiches are nibbled, and meetings hide behind the privacy of what look like stage curtains.

I can hear people introducing themselves to one another, sharing ideas, and meeting clients – a musician talks about his creative process while nearby members debate their wellbeing routines.

The Ministry boldly parades its personality – the building’s kind and collaborative spark can be found in every corner. In the bathroom, there’s a sign on the back of the door that reads: “Hiding in the toilet because you’re tired? Get a free coffee by signing up to our newsletter.” The human side of business takes centre stage – humour, empathy and creativity are celebrated in equal measure.

In fact, each floor has a dedicated community manager – one who not only ensures all work and meetings are running smoothly, but one who knows each member by name. It’s these little details that make The Ministry a perfect blend between a workspace and a members’ club.

Around the space, exposed brick walls are decorated with art sourced by local artists. As a sister company to the Ministry of Sound, it’s no surprise the space is such an incredible experience – you can work, workout, and socialise under one roof – filling your day from start to finish. You can go to a panel talk in the morning, hit the gym at lunch, grab a salad and a soup, then finish the day meeting a client or a friend at the bar.

And there’s plenty of space to bring your innovative work ideas to life. There’s a cinema room with capacity for 40 people, a soundproof studio which is often used for podcasting, recording, or editing, and of course, fixed desks and private meeting rooms.

It truly is a cultural venue. On top of that, wellness sits high on the agenda – there’s a wellness and cultural programme that spans over 50 events a month. With a gym on the bottom floor, members have access to a host of classes – powered by incredible playlists, of course. And to get back to work feeling refreshed, there are showers (equipped with high-end products) and vanity rooms (with a maze of mirrors, hairdryers, and straighteners). The space was actually dubbed one of the top 10 workspaces for wellbeing. Dogs are welcome, too, which is a great perk.

For sunny days, there’s a terrace lined with fairy lights and a bar, which is great for entertaining clients and having informal catch-ups with your team. And to ensure the outdoor space is just as nice in the winter months, it’s full of fireplaces, heaters and rain covers. In the evening, you can tuck into mac and cheese balls and other late-night bites.

Whatever business you’re trying to grow, book a viewing at The Ministry.

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