Coworking space Newbold Exchange just opened up in an old theater in South Philly

A 12,000-square-foot coworking space is opening in South Philadelphia this week, setting up shop in an old theater on Snyder Avenue.

The Newbold Exchange opens Friday, Sept. 10, and offers 16 private offices, plus 36 desks — a mix of hotdesks (starting at $150 a month) and dedicated work areas (starting at $250 a month). Founder John Longacre, president of LPMG Companies, said he felt that there weren’t enough office space options south of Center City, and while looking for his own team, came across the space at 1727 Snyder Ave.

“We saw a need to cater to local professionals — freelancers, small offices and anyone who would thrive in a shared work environment,” LPMG Director of Marketing Reid Benditt said in an email. “As people ease back into the workspaces outside of their homes we aim to meet their needs, however they take shape.”

The workspace is housed in an old theater, first originating as a silent motion picture house, the Becker Theatre, which opened in 1919, according to the company. It later expanded and reopened in 1926 as the Venice Theatre. That’s silent film star Theda Bara on the mural out front.

In addition to desks, shared kitchen, 24/7 access and Ultimo Coffee, amenities include three conference areas — two of which are traditional fullywired conference rooms with capacities up to 16 people, and a third stadium-style annex that can accommodate up to 50 people.

So far, the members include a mix of marketing professionals, illustrators, environmentalists and other professionals, Benditt said, and all but three of the space’s private offices have been rented so far.

The coworking space is holding an open house on Sept. 10 from 5 to 7 p.m., beer, wine and snacks included. Check it out:

Inside Newbold Exchange. (Courtesy photo)

Inside Newbold Exchange. (Courtesy photo)