Circus Space Design Patterns
This is inspired by Hackerspace Design Patterns, a talk which was central to the development of Hackerspaces in the united states.
Sustainability and Independence
Critical Mass
The rule of thumb is 2 + 2. You need a partner to get the initial idea kicked off, making two of you. You need two more people in order to get real work done. Don’t start before you are at least four people. From this point it’s easy to recruit more people. Aim for ten people for a start.[1]
Anti-Pattern: Roommates
You need a space for meetings and as a lab, to store and work on materials for projects. In order to minimize rent or out of sympathy, you think it’s great when someone lives in your space. But somehow it doesn’t work, as you cannot use the lab anymore.
Guest are fine, but don’t let anyone live there. Kick them out if necessary.[1]
Ownership
Many organizations have had the rug pulled out from under them when a landlord suddenly raised the rent or decided to sell the property.
As much as possible the group should own, not rent, its space and equipment.
Growth
Openness
You want to draw in new people and provide an interface to the outside world.
Have a monthly, public, and open lecture, talk or workshop.