Historical, yet modern

The historical Charlton Abbott, home to the very modern Willoughby Workspaces, provides the perfect backdrop for work, play and many things in between.

Owners Ken and Lisa Boyd had a vision to reimagine the historic Charlton Abbott into a novel concept of modern mixed workspaces. As history and architecture buffs, the duo spent years restoring the Victorian mansion to its former splendor, finally opening in 2021.

Their timing was spot-on. Following the pandemic, more people were working from home and looking for a functional and inviting solution to their workflow. 

“Our goal was to give the community a piece of history that’s also a place for people to network, thrive and grow together,” says Lisa.

Designed to Boost Productivity

"You can rent an office space or conference room for $25 an hour or join as a member for the ultimate in flexibility and convenience. Our members like to gather at the café downstairs, which serves amazing gourmet coffee, tea and light snacks. They can also use a state-of-the-art media room with high-tech A/V and greenboard tech capabilities. Members enter the building through a secure key fob and can add a private mailbox if they wish.”

The Boyds offer varying levels of membership, starting with $25 for a Day Pass and $19 per month for a Student Coworking Membership to unlimited Office Membership for $500 per month. Members also receive a discount on event rental.

“A few members liked their offices so much, they decided to lease them for the long term,” she adds. “We’ve recently made our yellow office available for lease as well.”

The Historic Horse Barn

Teeming with rustic charm, the historic horse barn behind the Abbott has been thoughtfully restored and now serves as a backdrop for memorable gatherings including showers, rehearsal dinners, birthday parties, celebrations of life, charity fundraisers and corporate celebrations for its members. Dating back to 1853, the barn and its rough-hewn wood beams and original floors are offset by posh chandeliers and historic equine oil paintings. The stalls and loft that once housed horses, chickens and hay now provide the setting for elegant gatherings. 

The barn’s main floor seats up to 90 guests so it’s just right for smaller intimate functions like wine tastings, game nights, book clubs and rehearsal dinners.

“We’ve had many local businesses select us for their annual meetings and training events,” says Lisa. “Lots of local yoga and wellness practitioners have held events and retreats here, too. Last month we hosted a Christmas Market featuring local artists and it was a big hit.”

She says to check the website for upcoming classes, set for March and April. 

Joining the barn as an adjacent venue space is the glorious fenced-in brick patio, which seats around 70 and has hosted bridal and baby showers. Lisa says she is already booking it for spring and summer events.