New Year. Same Energy. (Just a little fresher.)
Hello 2026!
Whether you’ve been part of The Upper Room for years, popped in for the occasional day, or you’re quietly considering a desk while hovering over our website… welcome. We’re really glad you’re here.
There’s something about the start of a new year that feels like a collective exhale. Less new year, new you ….more same you, clearer head, better boundaries, better coffee. And that’s very much the mood around the space right now.
A moment of reflection
As we step into a new year, we’ve been reflecting on what makes The Upper Room what it is. It’s not just the desks, the light-filled room, or the fact we’re right in the heart of Manly (though we do love that part). It’s the people …. and the purpose behind the place.
Being housed within Manly Uniting Church means The Upper Room has always been about more than just work. At its core, this building exists to serve people, community, connection and care … and that spirit quietly flows through everything we do upstairs.
Over the past year, we’ve seen ideas turn into businesses, side projects grow real legs, and friendships form over shared lunches and borrowed chargers. There’s been deep focus, spontaneous collaboration, honest conversations, big decisions and small wins … and we feel incredibly grateful to hold space for all of it.
What’s been happening lately
The last little while has been especially lively. We’ve welcomed new members into the room, had familiar faces return, and felt a renewed sense of momentum as everyone eases back into work with fresh perspective.
We’re also excited to be welcoming a new face behind the scenes. Emily has recently come on board as our admin support, and she’s already fitting in beautifully. Calm, capable, and genuinely lovely … she’s helping keep things running smoothly and bringing great energy into the space. We’re very grateful to have her.
The building itself has been buzzing too, thanks to our beautiful neighbours who bring so much life and balance to our days.
Just downstairs and next door you’ll find:
NBRHD Boxing — bringing the sweat, structure and serious endorphins. Perfect for clearing the head before a day of deep work (or shaking off a long one).
Neighbourhood Wellness Space — offering movement, breath, grounding and space to slow things down when life speeds up.
And our little garden oasis, SATO Cafe, keeping us fuelled with excellent coffee, nourishing snacks and the warmest humans behind the counter.
Together, it feels like a small ecosystem built around work, wellbeing and genuine connection … and we don’t take that for granted.
Looking ahead to the year to come
This year, we’re excited to lean even further into what makes The Upper Room special.
That looks like:
Continuing to grow a thoughtful, creative and kind coworking community
Welcoming more people who value both productivity and connection
Creating more moments to gather … casual lunches, shared conversations, community touchpoints
Keeping the space calm, inspiring and easy to work from
Supporting the many different seasons of work life … from growth and expansion to slowing down and recalibrating
Whether you’re building something new, growing something established, returning to work after time away, or simply craving a space that feels grounding and human — The Upper Room is here for you.
An open invitation
If you’ve been thinking about coworking this year, consider this a gentle nudge. Come by for a tour. Try a day at the desk. Grab a coffee downstairs. Say hello. See how it feels.
Here’s to a year of meaningful work, good energy, supportive community and shared momentum.
We’re so excited for what’s ahead … and we’re really glad to be doing it together.
