Alice Lyons’ clever satirical review of Manchester’s Ministry of Work, playfully highlights the space’s distinctive features through intentionally reversed criticism.

The reviewer humorously complains about positive aspects like free parking, friendly staff, office dogs, local food partnerships, and a calm working environment – all while painting a picture of a thoughtfully designed coworking space that stands apart from typical corporate environments. We’re willing to be it got more clicks and reads than any glowing review would have.

A year after opening in a renovated 19th century church, Ministry of Work is on a waiting list for private offices – but has launched a professional work club. Benefits include access to the space’s communal areas, events and vetted community for growth-focussed founders.

Eddie Whittingham shares how when he started building the Ministry of Work, a competitor came by and belittled them.

Glad to hear that the space is now almost full and that the comments didn’t dissuade a company builder from launching a community-focussed space.

During a renovation, the folks at Ministry of Work found a time capsule that was buried as part of the millennium celebrations in 2000, that said it should not be opened before 2050.

So they did what any coworking space operator would do, put it back under the floor, under walk-on glass with built-in lighting. Obviously. But it does look look.