Arts and technology collide at 44 Gaukel
Making it in Kitchener is a wonderful idea – but just like all good ideas, it can benefit so much from a physical space.
Enter 44 Gaukel, Kitchener’s newest workspace for arts and technology.
The first-of-it’s kind project acts as an incubator for artists and startups to collide, whether by launching their business, hosting a rehearsal or shooting a film. This incredible intersection of art, technology and Kitchener culture is a result of collaboration between the Accelerator Centre, ArtsBuild Ontario and the City of Kitchener.
Fifteen tenants – 50 employees – have moved into the 10,000 square foot maze of offices and multi-purpose rooms during 44 Gaukel’s months-long infancy, and 360 hours of rehearsal space have been booked so far. Greenlight Arts, HIVE WR, Finscot Films, DragonGem Productions and KW Little Theatre are among the artists in the space that work alongside a multitude of Accelerator Centre startups and makerspaces.
Though a workspace is at the core of the project, 44 Gaukel, an unassuming building across from the bus terminal has a grass roots vibe through and through. Graffiti upon entrance, individuals of opposite industries chatting in the hallways and makeshift paper signage taped to the doors lets you know there are creatives afoot, and ready to flourish.
Space at 44 Gaukel is rentable through SpaceFinder Waterloo Region.