We believe in inspiration. We believe in making space for discovery. We believe in chasing dreams. We believe in collaboration over competition. We believe we are better when we are working together. 

This is our birth story.

Back in 2017, Natasha Howell was launching Tacoma Children’s School, bringing art and science-based, in-home preschool and enrichment classes to Tacoma. Meanwhile, across town, Kayla Schroader was opening The Pod Works, the region’s first kid-friendly co-working space & community, designed with moms in mind.

Natasha loved her school but found that working from home wasn’t all she dreamed it would be. She needed a cozy escape and support network. She needed The Pod and quickly became a founding member. Kayla loved her flexible work and play lifestyle but knew her daughter would thrive in the atmosphere at Tacoma Children’s School.

From there, Kayla and Natasha spent co-working days and field trips and maternity leave together, collaborating and brainstorming what would become their collaboration business.

The Co-Lab opened in spring of 2020, amid a worldwide pandemic, in a little historic refurbished house in Proctor District, where all our dreams are coming together and making new waves in the play and work movement.