A new co-working hub has officially opened its doors in Ripon city centre, offering a bright alternative for remote workers fighting the isolation of working from home.
Located on Queen Street inside Jion Studios—above the Yorkshire Trading store—The Light Room has been intentionally designed to blend a professional office setup with a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere.
The launch directly addresses a well-documented gap in the local market.
Lilla Bathurst, Manager of the Ripon Business Improvement District (BID), said:
The need for a permanent location in Ripon for the city’s growing co-worker community was previously identified by local groups, but finding appropriate premises proved difficult,” n”It is excellent to see this new venture launch, which goes a long way toward meeting the clear demand for physical co-working facilities in our city.
A Tribute Built on Connection
The space holds deep personal significance for founders Ady and Nicola Gray, who also run The Karate Dojo and Exhale Yoga within the same building. The Light Room was created in memory of their close friend, popular Ripon photographer Paul Oldham, who tragically passed away in May. The co-working space now occupies his former photography studio.
Ady Gray said:
The studio was entirely Paul’s inspiration. He created a relaxed place where conversations happened naturally and friendships were made. Paul had a genuine passion for people and understood how much human connection impacts our mental wellbeing. When the time came to give the space a new purpose, we knew we wanted to carry those exact values forward.
Flooded with natural light from five large windows overlooking the city centre, the workspace currently features five premium hot desks, with room to expand up to eight.
For a flat rate of £20 per day, independent professionals, freelancers, and small business owners gain access to:
- Spacious setups designed for maximum productivity.
- Full kitchen access and complimentary refreshments.
- On-site shower facilities, specifically added to accommodate those who cycle to work or attend fitness sessions at Jion Studios before the workday starts.
- A permanent gallery of Paul Oldham’s vibrant photography displayed throughout the building.
The initiative has already welcomed its first wave of regular professionals
Katie Reeves, co-founder of the Medley Ripon co-working initiative:
What Ady and Nicola have set up here is tremendous and has proved absolutely ideal for me.
