The idea for Zapersona started from lived experience. We know what it’s like to need a space where you can create freely—without judgment, without overthinking, without needing to prove anything. The Third Place, a concept by sociologist Ray Oldenburg, describes a space outside of home and work—a place for people to gather, think, and just be. That’s what Zapersona is building. Right now, it’s digital. Eventually, it’ll be a—a space where people can create, collaborate, and reconnect with the raw side of making things.
So What Is Originally the Third Place?
Coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg, the "third place" refers to spaces that are neither home (first place) nor work (second place). These are cafes, libraries, parks, and creative hubs—places where people gather to exchange ideas, unwind, and build connections. They act as cultural incubators, fueling collaboration and inspiration.
For centuries, artists, writers, and thinkers have relied on third places to spark innovation. From the literary cafés of Paris to the jazz clubs of Harlem, these spaces have nurtured some of the world’s most groundbreaking creative movements.
“Creativity doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens in the spaces where people meet, share, and inspire one another.”
The Changing Landscape of the Third Place
With the rise of remote work, digital interactions, and gentrification, traditional third places have been disappearing or transforming. The pandemic accelerated this shift, pushing many creatives into online spaces. While virtual communities provide connection, they often lack the organic spontaneity that physical spaces offer.
Today’s third places may look different—co-working spaces, artist collectives, or even virtual reality hubs—but the essence remains the same: a space where people come together, free from obligation, to explore and create.
Building a Creative House as a New Third Place
Our vision is to cultivate a modern third place—a creative house where artists, thinkers, and makers can connect, experiment, and grow without barriers. More than just a workspace, this is a sanctuary for unfiltered expression, raw ideas, and meaningful conversations.
By designing an environment that encourages creative flow—through open studios, collaborative projects, and interactive events—we aim to redefine what a third place can be in today's world.
