CoBalance

Exceptional Venue: Versatile Spaces and Stellar Staff

Wandering the lively streets of Shoreditch, I discovered a somewhat hidden urban gem named Co-balance. Admittedly, this venue bounced onto my radar mostly through word of mouth – many colleagues and friends seemed utterly incapable of shutting up about it, chaotically flitting between adjectives like “superb” and “deplorable.” And, just as promised, upon entering, I was intrigued by its Jekyll and Hyde sensibilities. Gorgeous yet understated in style, one could indeed call it perfect for a co-working space or even a social soirée; the multi-purposefully designed spaces showcasing inviting nooks and state-of-the-art amenities. Pooja, the incredibly proactive staff member, proved critical in mastermining events and transforming initial chaos into well-oiled efficiency.

However, stepping downstairs was like encountering the wild sibling nobody at family gatherings talks about. Mold-adorned walls and fickle Wi-Fi were as bothersome as those lingering guests at house parties you can never quite hint away politely. Simultaneously, upstairs buzzed with its charming art-coated walls, efficient Wi-Fi (fingers crossed they've worked out the equilibrium here now), and unfailingly hot drinks — albeit no longer unlimited unless you're keen to test your caffeine limits against employee scowls by whining unpredictably. Irresistibly situated in London’s quirkiest heartland, Co-balance has a frustrating dual identity: splendidly styled with an inward beauty sometimes clouded by infrastructural woes. Still, when the stars align — particularly during Pooja’s finely orchestrated gatherings — this venue echoes only the first half of its intriguing split personality. — Milo Tastemaker