Located in a quiet neighbourhood in USJ 11 Subang Jaya, this cosy and artistically designed double-storey house primarily functions as a co-working and co-living space but has also become a sanctuary for creative minds to congregate, exchange ideas and participate in the many workshops offered.
Previously trapped in the rat race of the corporate world, intuitive artist Elaine Wong, and woodworker Kevin Yeoh, quit their jobs in 2015 and set-up The Hatchery Place in 2016.
“We didn’t know what we wanted to do, but we knew we wanted to do something creative,” said Wong, 46, a former software consultant.
“We were traveling in Europe at the time, but I was also freelancing, and it wasn’t easy to find co-working places near our accommodations, so we thought of starting our own co-working cum co-living space once we returned home,” said Yeoh, 45, who used to work as a UX consultant.
While the ground floor of the house is a dedicated co-working space, the upstairs consists of three homey, comfortable rooms for rent: the artist studio, the minimalist room and the writer’s room.
Yeoh, who also conducts woodworking workshops, handmade much of the furniture here using repurposed wood pallets. The minimum stay here is one week, although most end up staying for longer.
The couple has also hosted volunteers who helped prepare food and organise events during their stay. “That’s when we realised the beauty of having a community,” said Wong.
Most of the people who work and live here are digital nomads – coders, web developers, designers, artists, musicians and writers. And although most are foreigners, many locals too use the space as a creative getaway.
Over the years, the couple has organised all sorts of events and meet-ups which they also opened to the public, from music workshops, and arts and crafts events to healing circles, outdoor activities and community meal sharing.
Every Monday, the couple organises a meet-up called “Ben Day” – named after a former Hatcherian, which consists of a run and a swim, followed by a wholesome vegetarian dinner. “It’s the best way to beat the Monday blues,” joked Yeoh.
Wong has also recently started an event called “time bank” which refers to time-based currency rooted in the principles of a sharing economy. In this event, participants exchange one hour of service with each other, with no money involved.
“We all contribute our time doing what we like. Participants offer to walk other people’s dogs, solve IT problems, conduct qigong sessions, share photography and business development tips, as well as help with decluttering.
“The point is to get to know each other, share our resources and hopefully build a community,” she said, adding that the pandemic highlighted the importance of having communities whose members help one another.
No doubt, the couple has had many memorable moments with those they’ve met here. They’ve even had guests who come to stay multiple times.
“One co-living guest even fell in love with a local during one of our events. They’ve since gotten married and are now living in Spain,” shared Yeoh.
Wong and Yeoh said that when they started the place, they had a vision to “hatch” themselves and others with the hope of discovering their soul’s purpose. In fact, many creative endeavours were initiated at The Hatchery Place over the last six years.
This spot was where Yeoh first conducted his woodworking classes. Ai Jou, their community leader, launched her book events and transformative game sessions. And a tattoo artist began her career.
“When we quit our corporate jobs, a lot of people questioned our decision, thus, we want to create an environment and community that supports those who are going through a similar transition period,” said Wong.
“There are times when you might feel alone, and that nobody understands you, but you might just find your tribe here at The Hatchery Place,” she added.
Learn more about The Hatchery Place on its website, Facebook and Instagram. For upcoming activities, follow their event page.