The Chalcot Care Way: Supporting People, Building Communities

By Argjenda Miftari

Down the bright atrium of Great Western Studios, just steps away from the buzz of the café and a stone’s throw from the canal, you will find the welcoming studio of Chalcot Care. And one thing is always for sure … You leave their studio smiling, sometimes even in stitches, and always reminded that kindness and fun can absolutely go hand in hand with serious, important work.

Built on over 15 years of experience, Chalcot Care places healthcare professionals across both the NHS and private sectors, from nursing homes to private hospitals. But what sets them apart is the way they do it with warmth, and a real sense of care, not just for their clients, but for each other.

“Let’s Do This!”

That’s the unofficial motto of the Chalcot Care office, a phrase shouted across desks when energy dips or a big job comes in. It is fitting, because the team operates with a kind of fast-paced optimism.

Jay, one of the founders, shared what inspired him to start the company:

“I have always believed that caring for the elderly and those less able than ourselves is one of the most important responsibilities we have as a society. Growing up, I was taught the values of compassion, respect, and service, and those values really stuck. Chalcot Care came from the desire to match dedicated, skilled carers with the people who need them most, not just to fill shifts, but to create meaningful connections.”

And it shows. The team is not just placing people into jobs, they are investing in careers, in dignity, and in relationships that matter.

Jay may have accidentally earned himself the title of “Most likely to turn a 5 minute chat into a TED talk”, but honestly? When he talks about their mission, you kind of want to sit down and let him talk for 20 minutes straight.

Growing More Than a Business

Since its start with just two people, Chalcot Care has grown into a close-knit team of five, all working hard.

When asked what they are most proud of, they did not just talk about their rapid growth, or the contracts they have landed, they talked about people. “What we are most proud of is that Chalcot Care has become a safe and supportive space where people can grow in their careers. We provide opportunities for carers to gain training, develop professionally, and genuinely thrive. And beyond that, we are giving back, supporting charities like Adopt a Grandparent, and doing our best to create a positive ripple effect in the community.”

From Chaiiwala Runs to Fast-Paced Challenges

Malik, who joined Chalcot two years ago, claims he got the job on his way to get tea at Chaiiwala, but there is a very strong reason as to what inspired him to join the team:

“I am still here inspired by the opportunity to provide staff who support others and make their daily lives easier. What drew me in was the welcoming environment and the supportive team around me, people who share my values and morals. And of course, I’ve stayed partly because I’m still the undisputed FIFA champion in the room, and I’m not ready to give up that title just yet.”

There is something about the vibe in Studio 32 that balances that playful energy with serious commitment. For Darren, it is that fast pace and constant variation that keeps him engaged:

“I enjoy the challenges the role entails and the fast-paced environment.” Everyone brings their own energy to the mix, but the thread tying them together is their drive, and a genuine sense of purpose behind the work.

Finding Balance and Growth

We love asking what studio holders do to switch off because we think it says a lot about the people behind the work. For Rez, unwinding means cruising on his motorbike, catching up with family, or walking along the canal, just down from the studio:

“Time alone is really important to me. It helps me reset, reflect, and return to work with a fresh perspective. Sometimes I will walk the canal just to clear my head or think through new ideas, for work and for personal goals.” We can confirm excellent spot for a reset. GWS really does have those hidden pockets of peace. And it is not just about recharging. It is also about growing. Marwaan reflected on how Chalcot has helped him do just that, not just professionally but personally:

“The moment I stepped into the world of Chalcot and truly understood what we stand for, I knew I was in the right place, somewhere I could grow, develop, and do work that actually matters. We have built a culture where it is safe to raise concerns, ask for help, and collaborate openly. That kind of trust does not just make work better; it makes the care we deliver stronger.”

Beneath all the banter and energy, there is a deep sense of responsibility and pride in the work they do.

Home at GWS

Being based at Great Western Studios has clearly shaped how Chalcot Care works, and how they care for their own team.

“The team at GWS makes us feel truly at home, providing excellent service whether it is the front of house support or helping with any issues that arise. Its location offers the perfect balance – peaceful walks along the canal to disconnect from work. GWS has also created a safe and welcoming space for our staff to work flexibly, with access to multiple areas such as meeting rooms, the café, the atrium, and the courtyard. It is an environment that supports both productivity and wellbeing.”

Their favourite team spot? The atrium, where weekly meetings happen.

“It is a space that brings us together, sparks collaboration, and makes work feel even
more enjoyable.”

The One-Word Vibe Check

When we asked them to sum up their studio vibe in one word, the answer came quickly: Forward Thinking.

From building careers in healthcare to championing charities, teasing each other over FIFA rankings, and transforming a recruitment office into a space that feels like home, the team at Chalcot Care is definitely looking ahead. And luckily for us, they are doing it right here at GWS.

You can find Chalcot Care in Studio 32. Make sure you stop by to say hi but be warned – you may laugh a little too much, be recruited, or pulled into a very passionate FIFA debate.

3 Things You Should Know Before Moving Office

When you are planning an office move, the right space can do more than house your work, it can inspire it. The best workplaces offer the right location and access, strong security and amenities, and a thriving community. Great Western Studios brings all three together in one purpose-built hub for the creative industry, home to artists, designers, tech pioneers, product innovators, and more. With offices ranging from 200 to 2,800 sqft, co-working desks, meeting rooms, and event space, it is designed for those who want inspiration and collaboration built into their everyday.

Location & Access

A well-connected location makes commuting easier, impresses clients, and helps your business thrive. Look for strong transport links, car/bike access, and nearby amenities.

Situated in West London between Notting Hill and Maida Vale, right on the Grand Union Canal, GWS is well-served by transport and ideal for creative professionals. Just a 5-minute walk from Royal Oak and Westbourne Park (Circle & Hammersmith & City lines), ~10 minutes to Paddington (Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Elizabeth line), and quick access to the A40 and Heathrow all with excellent cycling infrastructure.

Security & Basic Amenities

You want a space that feels safe, supports your lifestyle, and is equipped for productivity. Security, access hours, and comfort facilities are non-negotiables.

  • 24/7 access with fob-based system, staffed reception 8 am–8 pm (Mon–Fri), plus on-site security available during weekend days as well.
  • The building is secure with CCTV and intruder detection.
  • Facilities include on-site café, showers, bike and motorcycle storage, parking for visitors, and access to breakout and atrium spaces, and much more.

Community Support & Perks

A strong community transforms a workspace from somewhere you sit, to somewhere you belong. Look for places that actively connect members and offer extra benefits.

  • A dedicated, friendly GWS team is regularly on hand – Sophie, Argjenda, Jake, Daniella and Carmen. They assist with leases, marketing, mail, deliveries, meeting room bookings, and general studio-holder support.
  • There is unlimited marketing support for our studio holders. New studio holders are promoted via website, newsletter, IG, blog; also access to billboard space and content collaborations.
  • Events include weekly free yoga and Pilates classes, pop-up shops, exhibitions, studio holders gatherings and more great opportunities for networking and exposure.

Ready to make your move? Book a tour at Great Western Studios today and start your next chapter in a space designed for success.

3 Things We Do Differently from Other Workspaces

In a city overflowing with workspaces, finding somewhere that truly fuels creativity and community can be a challenge. Welcome to Great Western Studios, a one of a kind workspace in West London that goes beyond the basics of desks and Wi-Fi.

Whether you are a designer, artist, entrepreneur, or innovator, here are three powerful ways GWS sets itself apart from the sea of typical workspaces.

A Creative Ecosystem, Not Just Office Space

GWS is not your standard office block filled with cubicles and hot desks. It is a community of over 100 purpose-built studios, home to creatives across disciplines – artists, designers, tech pioneers, products innovators, and more.

The space itself is a design statement. Studios are arranged around a central glass atrium with high ceilings, natural light, and an openness that encourages interaction. Whether it is bumping into someone in the atrium or collaborating with another studio holder on a project, the layout sparks creativity and connection.

This is more than only office spaces, it is a creative ecosystem.

Support That Goes Beyond the Desk

While many workspaces stop at “plug and play,” GWS actively helps your business grow.

As a studio holder, you will benefit from:

  • Free marketing exposure – Your work showcased on GWS’s website, social media, newsletters, and even billboard on the A40 flyover.
  • Workshops and events – Covering essentials like finance, social media strategy, and branding.
  • Wellbeing perks – From free yoga and Pilates sessions to studio holder meetings and exhibitions.

This level of personal and professional support is rare, and it fosters a real sense of belonging.

Flexibility and Premium Amenities

At GWS, you will find all the perks of a modern workspace, without the corporate stiffness:

  • 24/7 manned reception
  • Dedicated on-site team
  • Onsite café, meeting rooms with presentation tech, phone booths
  • Bike storage, showers, and parking
  • High speed internet
  • Pet-friendly
  • Internal and external brand discounts

Great Western Studios is not trying to be just another workspace, it is a creative environment, tailored to those who want to work, collaborate, and thrive in an environment that feels human and inspiring.

So, if you are tired of just a desk, white walls, and cold coffee, it might be time to explore something different. GWS might just be the space where your best ideas are waiting to happen.

Tuggs: Fresh Dog Food with a Sustainable Twist

By Argjenda Miftari

Located in the creative hub of Great Western Studios is Tuggs, a dog food company doing things differently. Tuggs makes fresh, nutritious meals for dogs using only real ingredients – gently cooked, frozen for freshness, and uniquely powered by insect protein.

We caught up with the founder, Harry, to talk sustainability, startup life, and why dogs deserve better food.

What inspired you to launch Tuggs? And why insect protein?

In 2017 I read about the regulatory changes in the EU allowing insects to be used in aquafeed. Subsequently I became intrigued with entomophagy and was curious by the slow adoption in the West. However, it was not until 2021 whilst doing my Masters at UCL that I began to develop an idea, at which point I wrote a dissertation on the UK dog food industry. A month after presenting my thesis my professor called me and became our first investor.

 

How do you ensure meals meet dogs’ nutritional needs?

We work with some of the UK’s top nutritionists and vets to formulate our recipes and ensure that they are complete and balanced for dogs of all ages. Luckily, the nutritional composition of the insects that we use add significant amounts of necessary vitamins and minerals to our meals.

 

A day in the Tuggs studio.

At the Tuggs office, every day starts with coffee for the humans and treats for the visiting pups (Cooper). Our mornings are usually a mix of creative brainstorms, customer check-ins, and team standups where we talk everything from new recipe launches to app updates.

While our production happens offsite, we stay closely connected to the process, working with our partners to make sure everything going into a Tuggs meal is top quality.

Afternoons might include planning upcoming campaigns, testing out new packaging (with lots of sniff-approvals from Cooper), and collaborating across teams to keep things running smoothly. There is always a dog or two curled up near someone’s desk.

It is fast-paced, fun, and completely dog-obsessed – just the way we like it.

The heart of the studio: the wall of Tuggsters

It has to be the giant wall of Tuggsters.

It started with a few polaroids of our team’s dogs, and now it is filled with hundreds of photos sent in by Tuggs customers from all over the country – dogs of every size, age, and personality, all loving their meals. We have taken these pictures from our website where customers can upload photos with notes alongside them, thanking us for helping picky eaters or dogs with sensitive stomachs finally enjoy mealtime again.

It is a daily reminder of why we do what we do. Every dog on that wall has their own story, and seeing their faces is the best motivation we could ask for.

 

Best advice for someone starting out in a creative career?

I have always liked the saying ‘well done is better than well said’ which I think encapsulates the core idea of just making a start and learning as you go. It is important to have conviction and just get going.

Most interesting conversation in the corridors of GWS – From Central Park to GWS

Whilst not in the corridors of GWS, I actually learnt about GWS by bumping into a friend from Sans Matin – the sneaker company which is now our neighbour – in Central Park. I had been looking for office space with no luck, but after this chance encounter I learnt about the studios and was happy to find that we could move in right beside them. I worked with them when they first launched in 2019 and I am very fond of their brand.

 

What has changed since joining the GWS community?

Having our own space has made collaborative work a lot more fun, and a lot more productive. It has also meant that my home freezer is no longer full of dog food.

 

Quickfire Qs

If Tuggs were a dog breed?
A Beagle – big appetite so we could eat as much Tuggs as possible

Theme song of the studio?
Dog Days Are Over

Final Thoughts

Tuggs is on a mission to make dog food better – for pets, people, and the planet. With fresh ingredients, sustainable thinking, and a whole lot of heart, they are making waves (and wagging tails) across the country, all from their cosy corner of Great Western Studios.

To learn more or meet the team, visit www.tuggs.uk or follow along @tuggspet on Instagram.

The Art of Balance: Honouring Fathers in Our Creative Community

This Father’s Day, we did not just celebrate fatherhood, we measured strength in its many forms.

Together with Studio 7, The VI Therapy, we hosted ‘Who has the Strongest Hand Grip at GWS?’ event. A light-hearted but seriously fun competition that brought the community together in a burst of energy, laughter, and healthy rivalry. From artists to designers, dads to non-dads, everyone gave it a squeeze, and we discovered we have got some seriously strong hands (and spirits!) in the building.

Huge thanks to The VI Therapy for making this happen. Your energy, expertise, and creativity brought such a special vibe to the day. Everyone who took part came away smiling, a little sore, and totally uplifted.

But beyond the grip meters and the gains, this week was also about reflecting on what it means to show up at work and at home. We asked some of our studio holders who are also fathers to share their thoughts on balancing the two.

Robert (Richard F Gill & Associates, Studio 111)
It has historically been tricky to balance work life and home life, largely fed by the culture that seemed inherent in the construction industry at the time.  This put a burden on my wife in dealing with bringing up the children and gave rise to other regrets regarding missing tangible bonding time with my girls.  Whilst this can not be undone, my time with RF Gill has both facilitated, and coincided with, being able to dedicate more time to being at home.  Covid obviously exacerbated this but even before this, my work life balance was tipping more towards life with a purchase of a home office in 2019.

Obviously as a business owner, there is a duty of care to your staff and a need to be present, particularly in a smaller company where I am looking to implement growth and change, but I am putting processes in place to empower my staff to be accountable and thus release me to focus more on my goals, business and personal.

With these goals written down, it allows me to ensure everything I am doing, whilst serving the business, ultimately looks to benefit having more time during the week with my girls – dedicated WFH days so I can be there to drop off or pick up if needed and making sure time with them is blocked out in my calendar.

I’m not saying that this solves all problems, and as I mentioned, I cannot change the past but being intentional about my time with them, putting them first in my short term planning and long term goals, ensures they are always the focus.  As they always should have been.

Sharif (The VI Therapy, Studio 7)
Being my own boss has given me the freedom to prioritize my two kids in a way I couldn’t when working for someone else. I dedicate my mornings to them, free from distractions like phones, and aim to model the values I want them to learn through my own actions. I schedule clients in the afternoons and keep Wednesdays and weekends work-free to ensure quality family time. A quote from my father always stays with me: “You get 18 summers with them before they fly the nest”. That reminder keeps me focused on being present now, rather than overworking in hopes of a better future because the time we have with them is already precious and very limited.

Dan (MATA Architects, Studio 114)
How do I balance work with fatherhood? The answer to that question keeps changing! Just when I think I’ve figured it out my kids get a bit older and what worked for a while, isn’t really working that well anymore… So half the time I’m catching up. Trial and (a lot of) error…At the moment, I try to be home for dinner together at least 3 out of 5 times in the working week and to cook at least two of those. My daughter joins me for dog walks on the heath, if not every weekend, then at least every other…My son and I are playing a lot of backgammon in the evenings at the moment and, more recently as the days get longer, table tennis in Queens Park…

Thank you to all the incredible dads at GWS who remind us that strength is not just physical, it is in your consistency, your care, and your presence.

Here is to strong hands, open hearts, and showing up where it matters most.
Happy Father’s Day from all of us at GWS.

Brows by Mina: A Story of Beauty, Resilience, and Reconnection

By Argjenda Miftari

At Great Western Studios, we are proud to be home to a diverse and vibrant community of creatives, and that includes the incredibly talented Mina, founder of Brows by Mina. Specialising in brow and lash treatments, Mina combines expert artistry with a deeply personal story to help women feel beautiful, confident, and empowered in their own skin.

We sat down with Mina to hear more about her journey, the evolving beauty industry, and how she balances creativity with motherhood, all from her studio right here at GWS.

How did your journey into the beauty industry begin, and what inspired you to specialise in brow and lash treatments?

Before launching Brows by Mina, I was working as a bridal makeup artist. Over time, I became known for how I shaped and enhanced my brides’ brows, something I didn’t think much of at first, until people started booking me just for brows or asking me to teach them.

But my real journey began in 2018, during one of the most difficult times of my life. I have Alopecia Areata, and in 2018, I lost most of my hair – including my brows. It deeply affected my self-esteem. I remember barely recognising myself in the mirror. Then I discovered microblading, and that experience changed everything. It helped me feel confident again, and I knew I wanted to give that same feeling to others. That’s when Brows by Mina was born from personal experience, healing, and a desire to help others rediscover their beauty.

 

With over five years of experience, what changes have you noticed in brow and lash trends?

The beauty industry has definitely shifted toward more natural, timeless looks. Gone are the days of bold, blocky “Instagram brows” – now, it’s all about enhancing what you already have. It’s a softer, more effortless approach, which fits perfectly into busy lives. My clients want to wake up, feel confident, and head out the door in minutes – still looking like themselves, just enhanced.

 

What’s been the most memorable feedback you’ve received from a client?

It’s hard to choose just one. Every client I’ve worked with has shaped my journey in some way. They’re not just appointments – they’ve helped me grow, both professionally and personally. I’m always grateful for the kind words, but more than that, it’s the trust and the shared experiences that stick with me.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about getting their brows or lashes done for the first time?

It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous! Almost every client I meet feels the same at first. But once they see themselves in the mirror, something changes – they light up. That moment of confidence is so powerful. It’s not just about how you look; it’s about how you feel.

 

What does life outside the studio look like?

My world revolves around my family. I’m a proud mum to a beautiful daughter, and we’re expecting another little one soon – which I’m so excited about! Most of my time is spent making memories with my family, whether it’s cuddles, storytime, or little adventures. Life’s about to get even busier, but in the best way.

How important is your working environment to your creativity?

It’s everything. The space I work in influences how I feel, how I connect with my clients, and how creative I can be. GWS provides a functional, inspiring space that keeps me energised. It’s a place where creativity and calm coexist – and that’s exactly what I need in my line of work.

 

How does your journey align with the values of Great Western Studios?

My brand is built on community, creativity, and continuous growth – values that mirror the spirit of GWS. This space isn’t just where I work, it’s a place that supports me as a professional and as a person. It encourages expression, empowerment, and connection.

 

Quickfire Round with Mina

Thick or Sleek Brows? Sleek
Go-to Appointment Playlist? Listen on Spotify

 

If you’d like to discover more stories from inside Great Western Studios, stay tuned for the next ‘Meet the People’ blog series.

How Great Western Studios Supports Green Living?

By Argjenda Miftari

At Great Western Studios, we believe that creativity and sustainability go hand in hand. From our eco-conscious design to community-led green initiatives, GWS is proud to support a lifestyle that values both artistic innovation and environmental responsibility. Together, we are building more than just studios. We are building a conscious, connected, and sustainable creative ecosystem for the future.

Here is how we are building a greener, more sustainable creative hub in the heart of West London.

1. Sustainable architecture by design

Our purpose-built studios are designed to reduce environmental impact. Featuring a spacious three-storey atrium and expansive steel-framed windows, the building maximizes natural light which cuts down the need for artificial lighting and reducing overall energy consumption. The smart use of space and light promotes energy efficiency and a welcoming environment for creative collaboration.

2. Green transportation and waste solutions

We actively support sustainable commuting by providing secure, undercover bicycle parking and hosting regular bike MOT workshops in partnership with local businesses. Recycling, on another hand, is one of the objectives we aim to achieve high standards in. The intention is to promote a zero-landfill waste solution. The system used is a two-stream waste management system. This means separating the waste into two main streams namely mixed recyclables and General waste.

3. Wellness and community connection

Sustainability at Great Western Studios also means nurturing the people who work here. We offer wellness-focused activities such as yoga and pilates, along with shared communal spaces like our on-site café, atrium and courtyard garden. By encouraging connection and balance, we promote a lifestyle that is sustainable not just for the planet, but for our community’s wellbeing.

At Great Western Studios, we are proud to house a community of creatives who value sustainability as much as artistry. Many of our studio holders actively choose sustainable, local, and low impact practices in their work, ensuring that creativity and conscience go hand in hand. Here are just some of our studio holders leading the way in sustainable creativity.

4. Low-energy infrastructure

We have invested in energy saving technologies throughout the studios:

  • LED lighting systems installed across all shared spaces and corridors
  • Sun-light activated lights in outside areas to prevent unnecessary usage
  • Efficient HVAC systems that balance heating and cooling needs while reducing energy waste

Sans Matin

“All our outsoles are made from 60% natural rubber. Natural rubber is a very sustainable and flexible material extracted from rubber trees. Each rubber tree has a lifespan of 30+ years, in which no tree is tapped continuously over its lifespan. New rubber trees are then planted in their place creating a closed loop of sourcing the natural rubber.”

SHAG! Hair Salon

“We are an exciting new concept salon in West London offering a B corp product range married with a sustainable ethos and an up-cycling, community driven mentality.”

Dr Sam’s Skincare

“We’re working on making our products more sustainable and increasing the percentage of packaging using PCR (Post Consumer Recycled) materials where possible.”

Craster

“We are actively helping customers to reduce CO2 emissions and achieve relevant accreditations through innovative designs that deliver exceptional guest experiences and offer intelligent solutions to the most wasteful elements of hospitality service. “

Tuggs

“So, our recipes pair meat, fish, and vegetables with insect protein to lower your carbon pawprint. Compared with farming animals, farming insects emits 96% less carbon, uses 95% less land and 94% less water but creates 100% of the protein.”

What3Words

“Following COP26, we are developing a set of bold commitments together with our partners, in an effort to reach net zero by 2030.”

Our commitment to a greener future

Great Western Studios is more than just a workspace. We are a community that cares about our environment, our neighborhood, and each other. By integrating sustainable practices into every aspect of our operation, we aim to inspire others in the creative and business worlds to do the same.

Join us in making a positive impact.

Inside The VI Therapy: Healing, Strength and Human Connection

By Argjenda Miftari

Founded in 2018, VI Therapy has built its reputation as a holistic therapy clinic focused on sporting performance recovery and general wellbeing. With qualified physiotherapists, massage therapists, and cupping specialists, the clinic blends science with empathy to create deeply personalised care.

We sat down with Sharif, founder of VI Therapy, and Gulnaz, a key member of the leadership team, to learn more about the inspiration behind the clinic, their approach to healing, and what’s coming next.

“VI” Means Movement – And So Much More

What inspired VI Therapy, and what does the name mean?
Sharif: VI Therapy was founded in 2018 with the goal of providing high-quality, tailored care – from sports injuries and postural issues to long-term pain management.
The name “VI” refers to the six major synovial joints in the body – a symbol of functional movement, mobility, and total body integration, which sits at the heart of our approach.

 

The Art of Personalised Therapy

How do you ensure every treatment plan is personalised?
Sharif: Every client is different – their history, lifestyle, and goals all matter. We use a combination of clinical expertise, ongoing research, and client communication to shape each treatment plan. Some clients want to be guided entirely, others need support building on existing rehab. Either way, we meet them where they are.

 

A Moment That Changed Everything

Is there a moment that affirmed the impact of your work?
Sharif: Yes, one that stays with me is a client with fibromyalgia – a complex condition with chronic pain and fatigue. After one cupping therapy session, he experienced a month of relief, something he hadn’t felt in years. Now, with regular treatments, he’s managing his symptoms and living a fuller life. It reminded me how deeply therapy can affect not just the body, but daily life.

From Solo Clinician to Growing Team

What’s been the biggest challenge in growing VI Therapy?
Sharif: Scaling the business, especially recruiting and leading a team. I’ve had to grow from being just a clinician to also becoming a business owner. Learning from others and staying open to mentorship has helped. We’ve moved from Shadwell to Wembley and now have a strong presence in Notting Hill – with more to come…

 

What’s Next: Innovation and Expansion

What’s next for VI Therapy?
Gulnaz: We’re launching a Hand Grip Strength Challenge for Father’s Day at GWS – with complimentary treatments for top participants. We’re also opening a second clinic in Park Royal, with a focus on women’s wellness treatments and broader accessibility.

 

Philosophy at the Core

What philosophy guides your approach to health and healing?
Sharif: I believe in strength – physically, mentally, and spiritually. A strong foundation makes everything else possible.

Shared Values with GWS: Wellbeing & Community

How do VI Therapy and GWS reflect shared values of wellbeing and community?
Gulnaz: We’re focused on access and inclusion. Whether it’s discounts for tenants, in-house massage days, or creating welcoming environments – we aim to make care both effective and approachable..

 

What role does GWS play in the experience you provide?
Gulnaz: The architecture and openness of GWS naturally support relaxation and healing. Clients often comment on the space – it feels professional, calming, and a bit like a sanctuary in the city.

A Few Final Touches…

If relaxation were a scent, what would yours be?
Sharif: Eucalyptus and Oud
Gulnaz: Lavender

 

Favourite form of self-care that costs nothing?
Sharif: Cycling
Gulnaz: Walking

 

During a massage – silence or conversation?
Sharif: Depends on the client — they lead.
Gulnaz: Quiet reflection tends to offer the best results.

 

VI Therapy continues to grow not just as a clinic, but as a community. Their mission is simple yet powerful: make people feel stronger, move better, and live more fully with one treatment at a time.

WFH? At Great Western Studios, it means ‘Working from Here’

By Argjenda Miftari

When most people hear ‘WFH’, they think of home offices, Zoom calls, and the occasional battle with the Wi-Fi. But at Great Western Studios, we have redefined what it means to work remotely. For us, ‘WFH’ stands for ‘Working from Here’, and once you experience it, you won’t want to go back.

Here is why working from an office, especially one like GWS, can transform the way you and your business thrive.

– Studio spaces that inspire

At Great Western Studios, we believe your environment shapes your creativity. That’s why we offer flexible studio spaces ranging from 150 sqft to over 2000 sqft – perfect for teams of all sizes. But it does not stop there.

Our studios open up to a range of collaborative and relaxed working zones:

  • Front Atrium Area 
    Comfy sofas and tables ideal for switching up your scenery.
  • Back Atrium Area
    Spacious tables and chairs perfect for team catch-ups or informal meetings.
  • Phone Pods and Meeting Rooms
    For when privacy matters.
  • On-site Café & Courtyard Garden
    Work in comfort or unwind with a coffee in hand.

Your workspace should work for you, and here, it truly does.

– Built-in collaboration

GWS is home to over 75 creative businesses, from architects to fashion designers, photographers to beauty brands. With so many creative minds under one roof, opportunities for cross-industry collaboration happen naturally.

Whether it is spontaneous idea-sharing in the atrium or joint projects between studio holders, GWS cultivates a culture where creativity and teamwork thrive. It is not just about having an office – it is about being part of something bigger.

 

– Sense of community

GWS is not just a collection of studios – it is a vibrant community. Here, you will find a support system of fellow creatives, founders, and entrepreneurs who understand your journey.

To help foster this community, we host monthly events that go beyond networking:

  • Creative workshops
  • Wellness sessions
  • Business meetups
  • Pop-up markets and more

These gatherings and events are designed to spark connection, collaboration, and inspiration.

– Marketing that moves the needle

When you join GWS, you do not just get a space, you get a platform. Our dedicated marketing and studios coordinator is here to help you shine.

We support our studio holders with:

  • Social media promotion (Instagram shoutouts, newsletter features)
  • Personalised blogs
  • Onboarding highlights on our website
  • The famous A40 Billboard space (your business in lights!)

It is all about helping your work get the attention it deserves.

 

– Dedicated team

From the moment you step in, you will feel the support of a team that genuinely cares. With 24/7 access via fob system, you will always be greeted by our amazing front of house team, and our security team keeps things running smoothly after hours. Behind the scenes, our studio manager, marketing coordinator, and on-site maintenance team are always available to support your studio needs.

We take pride in knowing our studio holders personally because your success is our success.

At Great Western Studios, we are not just offering office space. We are offering a creative ecosystem where businesses grow, ideas come to life, and people connect.

Get in touch today and come see what it is like to ‘Work from Here’.

 

Unleashing strength and confidence through movement – A conversation with the founder of Savage Pole Studio

By Argjenda Miftari

From corporate life to climbing poles, Ayuna has built more than just a studio. Savage Pole Studio and Fitness is a community, a creative outlet, and a celebration of body confidence. We sat down with her to talk about inspiration, challenges, and what makes Savage truly savage.

“I don’t consider myself a professional pole dancer, I wish I was!”

She laughs when I ask how she developed her personal style.
“I just genuinely enjoy it. I get so much inspiration from the incredible dancers I’ve met, either in person or through social media. And honestly, my own team is full of talented people. I’m learning from them all the time.”

Her journey didn’t start in a studio, but in the corporate world, a world that eventually felt too tight for the creativity she wanted to express.

When I ask about Savage’s deeper mission, her eyes light up.

“Pole dancing made me feel completely different about myself.”

“There’s something so powerful about realizing what your body can do. I was doing tricks I thought only gymnasts could pull off. After long, draining days in the office, it became a kind of therapy for me. And when you’re hanging upside down on a pole, trust me, your brain doesn’t have space to think about stress or emails!”

She explains how that feeling, the mind-body disconnect from the chaos of everyday life, became the heart of Savage’s philosophy.
“It’s more than fitness. It’s confidence. It’s a support system. When someone nails a trick for the first time and the whole class claps, it’s priceless. You feel seen. You feel strong.”

“The name Savage is intentional. We want people to unleash their strength.”

Branding Savage wasn’t just about a look or logo. It was about a message.

“We’re still shaping our identity, but what’s always been clear is that we want people to feel empowered. You don’t need to be a pro or have a dancer’s body to start. Anyone can learn. Anyone can feel powerful.”

It’s this inclusive message that resonates with her community and keeps the energy in the studio buzzing.

“I genuinely listen to my team. I learn a lot from them.”

When I ask her how she keeps morale high among instructors and staff, her answer is refreshingly honest.
“Open communication. I take their feedback seriously, and we try new things together. It’s collaborative. It’s a team.”

For anyone hesitant to give pole a try, her advice is simple:

“Don’t be intimidated. We all start somewhere.”

“Everyone feels shy at first. But pole classes are full of supportive, kind people who just want you to have fun. You’ll surprise yourself with how quickly you build strength – and how much you’ll love it.”

Looking ahead, Savage has ambitious plans.

“We want to grow. I want to bring pole to as many people as possible.”

Whether that means expanding class types, launching new programs, or even opening another location, the studio’s mission remains the same: making pole fitness accessible, fun, and empowering.

Being based in Great Western Studios has played a big part in shaping that experience.

“People walk in and say, ‘Wow, this place is amazing.’ And they’re right!”

“Being here gives us a creative edge. The vibe of the building, the community – it’s such a cool environment. Plus, being close to Portobello, Little Venice, and Bayswater makes it special.”

The studio’s creative location allows students to linger after class – grab a coffee, co-work, or just soak in the atmosphere.

Before we wrap up, I throw her a few fun questions. She grins, ready for the quick-fire round.

Describe Savage Studio in 3 words.
“Fun, cozy, supportive.”

First thought when you think of pole dancing?
“It’s so cool. Even now, when I see someone do a new trick or choreography, I’m like, ‘Whoa.’ It pushes me to keep practicing.”

If you had a pole dancing superpower, what would it be?
“Spider-Man hands! Webs to stop me from falling!”

Dream celebrity student?
“Madonna. And it could still happen.”

Post-class go-to snack?
“Water, and a big hearty meal.”

 

Want to unleash your inner savage?
Visit savagepolestudio.com or drop by Great Western Studios to try a class, meet the team, and see what the hype is all about.