Empowering Austin's Professionals: A Decade of Createscape's Impact in the Coworking Industry
An interview with Keller Davis of Createscape
Createscape is the longest running locally owned and operated space in Austin that's known for its inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, as well as its affordable pricing. Createscape is more than just a place to work. It's a community of creatives who support and inspire each other. Keller Davis, who co-founded Createscape in 2014, says that he was inspired to start the coworking space after feeling isolated and often distracted working from home. But what really sets Createscape apart is its focus on community. I recently had the opportunity to interview Keller for the first time, and we talked about the space's history, its mission, and how it's evolved since the pandemic.
For more than ten years, Createscape has been a nurturing hub, fostering connections and encouraging innovation. In this detailed conversation with Keller Davis, we explore the journey that turned a vision into a bustling coworking space, and an integral part of Austin's entrepreneurial community.
Createscape Coworking’s second and current location at 701 Tillery St. in East Austin.
A Humble Beginning: 2013 - 2014
The story of Createscape begins in the early 2010s when the concept of coworking was still in its infancy in Austin. Keller, a visionary entrepreneur and the co-founder of a successful video production company, Escape Plan Productions, found himself at a crossroad. The desire for a workspace that offered more than just a desk was palpable. “Prior to 2013, I wasn't too familiar with the concept of coworking,” Davis reflects. He says that the necessity for a boundary between work and personal life was evident, but rising commercial real estate costs in Austin posed a significant challenge. The spark that ignited the coworking dream came from discussions with business partners Jensen Yancey and friend Brandon Willett.
“We started as a shared workspace, a way to share costs and resources with other startups,” Davis recalls. However, the concept evolved rapidly, embracing a diverse range of professionals. The aim was not just to provide a physical space but to cultivate a supportive ecosystem where filmmakers, videographers, graphic designers, writers, and entrepreneurs could collaborate, innovate, and thrive.
Createscape: More Than Just a Workspace
Since those early days, Createscape has grown into one of Austin's longest-running coworking spaces, etching its mark as a locally owned and operated establishment. “We pride ourselves on being locally owned and operated,” Davis emphasizes, reflecting the deep love for Austin that permeates through Createscape's ethos. Beyond being a workspace, Createscape embodies the spirit of the city, offering its members an authentic Austin experience.
Createscape’s mission is clear: to provide an affordable, inclusive, and inspiring environment. “A lot of our members and guests tell us that they love our 'Austin vibes,'” Davis shares. In a world dominated by corporate giants, Createscape stands as a testament to the power of local businesses, offering a unique atmosphere that resonates with the soul of the city.
Navigating the Challenges of Remote Work
The past few years have witnessed a seismic shift in the way we work, with remote and hybrid arrangements becoming the new norm. Createscape, quick to adapt to these changes, emerged as a sanctuary for professionals seeking balance in their work lives. Davis astutely observes, “It's really difficult to focus at home if you have kids, animals, roommates, or a partner there. Even without any of those things, working from home every single day can be incredibly isolating, lonely, and it can amplify distractions.”
In response to this growing need, Createscape offers a refuge—an oasis where professionals can escape the isolation of home offices. “Having a space where you know there's lots of different clean workspaces with power outlets, reliable high-speed internet, free coffee, events & food, and friendly faces around can make a big difference in your motivation, mindfulness, and personal productivity,” Davis explains.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Coworking
Community hangout: Createscape members enjoy a sunny Happy Hour on the patio.
As the world hurtles toward an increasingly digital future, the role of coworking spaces continues to evolve. Davis envisions a future where these spaces will become even more finely tuned to meet the diverse needs of professionals. “Coworking spaces will continue to fine-tune the exact ingredients of their layouts and models… based on the needs that evolve,” Davis predicts. Settling into the post-pandemic era, Createscape continues to push the boundaries, ready to embrace new challenges and opportunities.
In a world that increasingly values virtual interactions, Createscape remains a beacon of in-person connection, a sanctuary for those seeking not just a workspace, but a community where passion and collaboration thrive. As Austin's creative spirit continues to soar, Createscape stands as a testament to the city's boundless potential, empowering professionals to dream, create, and succeed. As we peer into the future, one thing is certain: Createscape's legacy will endure, shaping the entrepreneurial future of many for years to come.
Keller Davis is the owner and founder of Createscape Coworking, a neighborhood coworking space in a converted 1950s bread factory in East Austin, Texas. He is also an owner of Escape Plan Productions, a boutique video production business, and Co-Production House, a virtual production studio in Austin.