Reading: Fora officially opens new workspace centre at Thames Tower

Premium workspace provider Fora launched its fourth space, three floors in the iconic Thames Tower right next to Reading station - with a drinks party.

Guests were greeted by enthusiastic bell-boys dressed in bright red tunics, ushering them into the newly renovated ground floor space that will typically operate as a business lounge and meeting room complex, open to both Fora residents and members of the public.

Private offices and flexible working areas have been created on the two floors above.

Botanist was behind the bar, mixing original gin cocktails and negronis made with organic birch liquor.

A spokesman said: "The space itself looked fantastic, showing off Fora’s thoughtful approach to space planning, brought to life by award-winning architects Piercy & Co. Fora exists to bring people together, and what a venue for a launch party, showcasing the highly curated and original mix of furnishings and amenities that Fora has become known for."

Fora co-founders Enrico Sanna and Katrina Larkin, were in attendance – Larkin introduced long-time friend Melvin Benn, a man who almost needs no introduction in Reading. Benn regaled the room with a moving and amusing story of his life-long relationship with the Reading Festival, from first attending as a schoolboy in the 1970s to buying the business and turning it into the spectacle that it is today.

Benn’s takeaway message was the importance of caring about the projects you undertake, and how passion, attention to detail, and a focus on what the people really want to see will always be a winning formula.

"The agreement in the room was that Fora’s team have delivered something really special with their fourth project, a work and events space that the Reading community can enjoy and get real benefit from. Exciting times ahead for Fora and the business and cultural communities of Reading."