Coworking Le Poulailler

An association serving freelancers and detached workers

Born from a local need

Coworking Metz is a Metz-based association born from the desire to create a collaborative, accessible, and human workspace. From the outset, the project was based on a simple idea: to offer freelancers, remote workers, and project leaders a place to break isolation while maintaining their autonomy.

Since its inception, the association has operated exclusively on a non-profit model. It is managed by a volunteer Board of Directors elected by the members, and its daily operations largely rely on the commitment of its members.

Key milestones in its evolution

Over the years, Coworking Metz has experienced several defining moments.

• 2013 : project launch and opening of Le Poulailler at the BLIIIDA site.
• 2017-2018 : consolidation of the association model and significant growth in membership.
• 2019 : significant improvements to the premises.
• 2020 : health crisis period marked by rapid organizational adaptation and rigorous management to ensure financial sustainability.
• 2023 : continued development with the opening of a new space, bringing the total to 40 workstations.
• 2024 : adjustment of rates to cope with increased costs, while maintaining an accessible price point.

These steps illustrate the association's ability to evolve without compromising its founding values.

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A project founded on participation and responsibility

Coworking Metz is not merely a desk provider. Each member joins the association. They participate in a collective project and can vote at General Assemblies, stand for election to the Board of Directors, and contribute to strategic decisions.

The space operates on a principle of trust and shared responsibility. It's an open-plan environment: workstations are not permanently assigned, and no private offices are rented. This setup promotes flexibility and interaction among members.

Respect for quiet, discretion during calls, and maintaining a clean environment are considered essential elements of communal living. Routine cleaning and tidying are handled collectively, based on a principle of shared responsibility.

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An offer designed for freelancers and remote workers

Le Poulailler primarily caters to self-employed individuals: freelancers, consultants, developers, graphic designers, writers, students, remote workers, or entrepreneurs. The space is particularly suitable for those whose work requires concentration and autonomy.

Access is available during Bliiida's opening hours. The membership options offered are simple and clear:

• day passes,
• unlimited monthly membership.

Access is personal, and attendance is tracked electronically to ensure fair management. An annual membership to the association is required.

In addition to the workspace, members benefit from:

• shared internet access,
• friendly common areas,
• a furnished terrace and garden,
• an environment integrated into a dynamic third place.

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A community above all

Beyond the shared office, Coworking Metz fosters a true community dynamic. The association regularly hosts events to promote informal networking and cohesion:

• community breakfasts,
• summer happy hours,
• back-to-work barbecues,
• game nights,
• themed meetups,
• internal training sessions (newsletter, digital tools, etc.).

These moments strengthen connections among members and foster professional mutual support. It's not uncommon for collaborations to emerge directly within Le Poulailler.

Being located at the Bliiida site also fosters interactions with other organizations. The coworking space is thus part of a larger local ecosystem.

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Clear Commitments

The association upholds several guiding principles:

1. Financial Accessibility

Rates are deliberately low to provide workers with an alternative to private, for-profit coworking spaces, which are often far too expensive. Discounted rates are available for students and job seekers to ensure a diverse membership.

2. Diversity and Inclusion

The governance structure was recently adapted to strengthen representation and promote balance within the governing bodies.

3. Transparency

Important decisions (rate changes, statutory amendments, budgetary guidelines) are submitted to a member vote at the General Assembly.

4. Sustainability

Financial management aims for budgetary balance and long-term investment capacity. The rate adjustments decided in 2024 address this requirement for stability. The coworking space has achieved a balanced budget every year since its inception.

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A unique identity in Metz

Coworking Metz holds a unique position in the local landscape. Unlike business centers or private commercial rental spaces, the association offers an approach based on cooperation and resource sharing.

Le Poulailler is neither just a shared office nor an anonymous space. It's a place where you know your desk neighbors, where conversations spark over coffee, and where skills are naturally exchanged.

After more than a decade in operation, Coworking Metz remains true to its initial ambition: to offer a professional, accessible, and welcoming workspace, while fostering a dynamic community in the heart of the city.

Its history demonstrates a constant capacity for adaptation, a strong volunteer commitment, and a clear determination to make coworking a true community-driven project serving the Metz region.

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