FAQs

The name souk, what does it mean?
A souk is a Moroccan bazaar.   The owner was inspired by world markets and the individual entrepreneurs who temporarily construct and run their own stalls.   All those stalls together form a vibrant, colorful community experience.   souk's environment is suggestive of a market - kind of like a professional market:   a graphic designer beside a consultant to a non-profit beside a PR specialist and so on, forming unique and endless marketplace combinations.   Come, set up stall!

What is a hot desk?
The hot desk concept evolved in response to the changing needs of today's flex-time economy and post-geographic professional workforce. A hot desk describes the temporary physical occupation of a workstation by an employee, independent contractor or entrepreneur. Hot desking is regularly used in places where not all the employees are in the office at the same time, or not in the office on a regular basis. Hot desking also provides the opportunity for networking and collaboration with its continual flow of people. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_desking .

How does membership at souk work?
The membership model is simple.

• If you need a hot desk several hours per week and frequently need meeting space, the full-time or part-time, flat monthly fee is for you. You'll receive discounts on meeting rooms.  
• You don't need meeting space (or at least, very infrequently) and need a hot desk for only a few hours per week. The pay-as-you-go hourly hot desk rate might suit you. You'll pay the general hourly meeting rate.
• You simply need meeting space, so you'll simply pay the hourly meeting rate.

Contact us about membership and signing up. souk strongly encourages you to visit too. Space matters to us; we believe it matters to you.

What is space at souk like?
Please see the "photos" link for a flavor.

The souk facility is 5000 square feet exuding a loft-like feel with its exposed brick and HVAC systems, restored original wooden beams, high ceilings and ample natural light.   Herman Miller chairs and Design Within Reach pieces round out the open plan appeal.   There are NO CUBICLES.

There are three, closed conference rooms available, all with natural light, one holding 15 people, and two holding up to 12 people. Additionally, there are two, closed private offices - with windows - that can hold up to 3 people.

The remainder of the space is open plan and accommodates up to 24 hot desks, many of which can be adjusted for those preferring to stand.   All hot desks have ergonomic Celle chairs, Herman Miller's "green" line of office seating.

Finally, there are 3 additional areas where people can "touch down" to meet informally:   the reception lounge and two living-room like areas, one of which couples as a library of newspapers and magazines.

Does souk provide computers and phones?
Though phones and laptops are available, it's expected you will use YOUR laptop and cell phone.

What if I need to take a private call?
Any closed room that is unoccupied can be used temporarily for private calls. If they are occupied, a semi-closed area in reception can be used for privacy on a first come, first serve basis.

Is the facility secure?
Rest assured souk has taken precautions:

• secured entry at street level and at the entrance to souk
• an alarm system
• cable locks you can check out for laptops
• bring-your-own-lock-lockers
• locked, mobile file drawers members

What about services?

• Secure Wifi
• Copier
• Printers
• Fax machine
• LCD projectors + screens
• White boards (mobile as well) + pens
• Flip charts + pens
• TV/DVD
• phones with unlimited local calls
• General admin assistance (can be arranged)
• Meeting snack baskets
• Intranet for members
• Laptop rental - laptop cable locks
• General office supplies
• souk business cards (if you don't have your own)
• Library (magazines and newspapers)
• Storage
• Kitchen (functional for a caterer)
• Deluxe, cappuccino/latte machine
• All utilities and green janitor service
• Recycling
• Headsets
• ADA restrooms and elevator
• Limited bike parking
• Brown Bag Lunches with guest speakers, networking hours, etc.
• Featured member profile on home page
• "Company Present" events
• Fully staffed reception/concierge
• Dedicated server room
• Discounts through souk partners
• Etc.

Can I store some of my personal supplies at souk?
Members may use an ample-sized, bring-your-own-lock locker or locked mobile file drawers at the facility. Other storage possibilities may be available upon request, but are limited. souk encourages a "clutter-free" environment.

How do I get to souk?
souk is conveniently located at 322 NW 6th Avenue in Portland, between Everett and Flanders, in Old Town Chinatown, within walking distance of downtown and the Pearl District. See map.

Public Transportation
The nearby bus, streetcar or MAX lines access souk. Consult www.trimet.org for more information. As of January 2007, the Bus Mall will temporarily move to 3 rd and 4 th avenues. Consult www.trimet.org for the latest information.

By Car
The closest garage is on Everett at 5 th one block away. Smartpark has garages within a few blocks at Naito and NW Davis and at Station Place (at the westside foot of the Broadway Bridge).   Additionally, there are several outdoor lots within a few blocks of souk.

Metered street parking is available on all surrounding streets, including availability along the North Park Blocks, two blocks away. The train station also has parking.

How do I found out about the Old Town Chinatown neighborhood?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_Town_Chinatown,_Portland,_Oregon and http://www.portlandneighborhood.com/oldtown.html

What are souk's hours?
souk is open M - F 9 am - 5 pm + upon request, appointment.

How did souk get started?
Click here.