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Sisters Loumingou Open doors to Parisian Co-Working and Cultural Hub: A Model for U.S.Small Businesses?
Published: March 28, 2025
In an era where the lines between work and life are increasingly blurred, innovative spaces that cater to both professional needs and community engagement are gaining traction. Last week, in the charming “Campagne à Paris” district near Porte de Bagnolet, sisters Laura and Prisca Loumingou unveiled La Maison 2LP, a venture that embodies this very concept. This unique establishment is not just a co-working space; it’s a multifaceted hub designed to foster collaboration, learning, and a sense of belonging.
For U.S. readers, this Parisian story offers a compelling glimpse into how small businesses can adapt and thrive by creating spaces that are both functional and community-focused.As American cities grapple with the evolving demands of the workforce and the desire for more localized, engaging experiences, the model of La Maison 2LP presents a perhaps valuable blueprint.
Born into a large family with Gabonese and Congolese roots, Laura and Prisca initially pursued separate career paths. Laura, the elder sister, spent 14 years in leadership roles at Orange, a major telecommunications group with operations in France and Africa.Her experience honed her management skills, but more importantly, she discovered her passion for nurturing talent. She found fulfillment in “accompanying her teams in their skills progress,training them,and seeing them gain autonomy and confidence.” This sentiment reflects a growing trend in U.S. businesses, where employee development and empowerment are recognized as key drivers of success.
Prisca, the younger sister, spent seven years in the fast-paced world of dialog agencies. Last year, she joined 2LP Consulting, the firm Laura founded in 2007. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and a multicultural perspective to their consulting, coaching, and training services. Their firm specializes in client relations and experiences, sales, management, efficiency, and workplace well-being, also offering career coaching—a service increasingly popular in today’s dynamic job market.
The true innovation lies in the fact that their space is designed to be accessible to a wide audience. Laura explains, ”I wanted it to be as pleasant as my own home because I am convinced that a conducive environment helps learning.” The space is warm, adaptable, and features a lush terrace. It is available for rent for various professional events, including meetings, coaching sessions, seminars, film shoots, recruitment events, pop-up shops, and exhibitions.
The 65-square-meter (approximately 700 square feet) venue includes a large room that can accommodate 14 to 20 peopel, a smaller room for six, and a kitchenette. While renting the space helps them generate income and build relationships with local partners, they are also committed to offering affordable rates, and even free access for projects they are passionate about. This commitment to community mirrors similar initiatives in the U.S., where small businesses frequently enough play a vital role in supporting local causes and fostering a sense of togetherness.
For those interested,Laura and Prisca are hosting their first open house on Thursday,April 10th,from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM. This event offers a chance to experience their space firsthand. They also plan to announce other events, workshops, and networking opportunities in the coming weeks. The address is 5 Rue du Capitaine Tarron.
The Rise of community-Focused Workspaces in the U.S.
The concept of La Maison 2LP resonates with a growing trend in the United States: the rise of community-focused workspaces. these spaces go beyond providing desks and Wi-Fi; they aim to create environments where people can connect, collaborate, and learn from one another. This trend is driven by several factors:
- The increasing number of freelancers and remote workers: The gig economy is booming, and more Americans are working independently or remotely. These individuals often seek out co-working spaces to combat isolation and find a sense of community.
- The desire for more meaningful work experiences: Manny workers, especially younger generations, are looking for jobs that offer more than just a paycheck.They want to feel connected to their work and to the people they work with. Community-focused workspaces can provide this sense of purpose.
- The growing recognition of the importance of well-being: Employers are increasingly aware of the impact of workplace well-being on productivity and employee retention. Co-working spaces that prioritize well-being, such as La Maison 2LP with its emphasis on comfort and a green terrace, are becoming more popular.
In cities across the U.S., co-working spaces are incorporating elements that foster community, such as:
- Regular social events: Happy hours, workshops, and networking events provide opportunities for members to connect and build relationships.
- Shared meals and coffee breaks: These informal gatherings encourage interaction and create a sense of camaraderie.
- Volunteer opportunities: Some co-working spaces organize volunteer activities, allowing members to give back to the community and bond over shared values.
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