Walthamstow recently earned recognition as one of London’s best places to live; however, for Alexis Michaelides, founder of Creative Works and Big Creative Education, it has always represented far more than just a desirable neighbourhood. It is a hub of creativity, community, and purpose-driven enterprise. As a social enterprise and Community Interest Company (CIC), Creative Works plays an active role in this vibrant ecosystem, redefining the concept of a workspace by combining education, collaboration, and social impact through its support for local entrepreneurs, creatives, and young people.
From Grassroots Beginnings to a Purpose-Built Ecosystem
Alexis Michaelides’ journey started in the heart of Waltham Forest, not in a corporate office but on local estates, running grassroots music events and youth summer courses. His early work was driven by a desire to empower underserved young people. Inspired by his father’s community work and his own experiences engaging young people on estates such as Oliver Close, Alexis developed a mission: to bridge the often wide gap between education and the working world.
This mission led to the creation of DV8 Training in 1999 and later Big Creative Education—programs designed to open doors for young people in areas with limited access to education and training. Creative Works was the natural evolution, a space that would bring together business, learning, and community under one roof. Supported by early backing from the Greater London Authority and inspired by pioneering coworking models (Nottingham’s Confetti and Old Street’s Trampery), Creative Works was founded on a simple but powerful idea:
What if a coworking space could also be a launchpad for local talent and social impact?
Today, Creative Works is far more than a shared office. It’s a dynamic space where enterprise, mentorship, training, and community complement one another. The workspace design demonstrates a clear focus on sustainability and respect for the local environment. Every detail—from reclaimed wood furniture handcrafted onsite to locally sourced milk—embodies the values of community, environmental responsibility, and inclusivity. “It’s indie through and through,” Alexis says, “a place that feels lived-in and genuinely connected to Walthamstow.”
Building a Future-Ready, Inclusive Creative Community
Located in the Blackhorse Lane Creative Enterprise Zone, Creative Works is part of a wider “Big Creative Village” vision, blending education and enterprise across a dynamic local campus. This long-term vision is secured through a 125-year lease backed by investment from the GLA, Big Issue Invest, and Charity Bank, ensuring the space will continue to evolve and serve the community well beyond the current leadership.
Under the guidance of the Community Manager, Elena Giroli, Creative Works has expanded its offerings to meet the diverse needs of its members. From flexible day passes to dedicated desks and private Creator studios, the space adapts to changing work styles. Its close partnership with Big Creative Education also means young creatives and entrepreneurs have direct access to mentorship, apprenticeships, and real-world opportunities.
The community itself is a vibrant mix of sustainable fashion brands, mental health advocates, youth training organisations, and ethical food start-ups—proving that business and social purpose are not mutually exclusive but mutually enriching.
Creative Works also hosts a broad range of events that nurture collaboration and wellbeing. From CW Talks Locals and Creative Connect, which offer platforms for networking and idea-sharing—to wellbeing sessions like sound healing and Pilates, the space encourages members to connect beyond work. Initiatives such as Write Club and Eat My Shorts create creative spaces for writers and filmmakers, embedding Creative Works firmly within London’s wider cultural landscape.
Creative Works members inside one of the private creator studios
Join Us in Spreading the Word
Creative Works is more than just a coworking space—it’s a movement towards a more inclusive, socially conscious local economy. But to truly thrive and grow, we need your help. If you’re a member or supporter, please share our story with your media contacts, friends, and networks. Help us amplify the message that social purpose and creative enterprise can go hand-in-hand in Walthamstow and beyond.
Together, we can build a future where workspaces provide more than a desk and free Wi-Fi; they also nurture people, spark innovation, create opportunities, and strengthen communities.
If you’re interested in learning more, hosting events, or becoming part of this thriving community, contact us at Creative Works E17. Let’s spread the word and create real impact—right here, in the heart of Walthamstow.
