As a community-driven initiative, we welcome donations of time, tools, and early-stage investment to help bring the Common Works to life.

As a community-driven initiative, we welcome donations of time, tools, and early-stage investment to help bring the Common Works to life.

The Common Works

The New Creative Makerspace in Cochrane, Alberta

Memberships

Drop-In Member

  • Access & Use

    • 5, 10 or 20 Punch Pass

    • Shared workstation (first-come, first-served)

    • Access during staffed hours

    • Use of basic tools and communal spaces

    Community Perks

    • Access to community events & open houses

    • Member rates for classes/workshops

    • Member appreciation events

    Extras

    • Locker storage rental available (optional)

    • Day-of-space upgrades if available

  • 5 Punch Pass : $175, expires 3 months after purchase

    10 Punch Pass: $315, expires 6 months after purchase

    20 Punch Pass: $575, expires 12 months after purchase

Regular Member

  • Access & Use

    • 7 days/week access

    • Priority booking for desk/workbench

    • Full access to shared tools, machines, and spaces

    • Equipment booking privileges

    • Mid-size storage (shelves, bins, tool carts)

    Community Perks

    • Priority registration for workshops/events

    • Profile featured on member page

    • Access to private peer groups or critique circles

    • Option to sell through in-house pop up markets

    Extras

    • Reduced rental rates for event space or studio hosting

    • Member appreciation events

    • $115/mo

    • Auto renews each month

    • 3-month minimum commitment

Resident Member

  • Access & Use

    • 24/7 access (some conditions apply)

    • Dedicated private or semi-private space

    • Top-priority for machine bookings

    • Large or locked storage included

    Community Perks

    Same as Regular Members, plus:

    • Featured artist spotlight in newsletter/website

    • Annual “Resident Showcase” event

    Extras

    • Guest day passes

    • Starting at $200/month, based on studio size

    • Auto renews each month

    • 3-month minimum commitment

About Us

The Common Works is a member-based, community-driven creative hub in Cochrane, Alberta. We empower local artists, makers, and entrepreneurs by offering accessible, professional-grade workspaces, shared tools, hands-on education, retail opportunities, and public events—all under one roof.

More than a traditional art studio, The Common Works blends the best of a maker space, learning centre, artisan market, and event venue. This hybrid model supports creativity, collaboration, and craftsmanship while helping revitalize Cochrane’s growing creative economy. With a modern “cowboy-cool” aesthetic rooted in local heritage, our space is designed to reflect the spirit of small-town Alberta.

Founded by Cochrane-based cabinetmaker and creative entrepreneur Tony Millwater, The Common Works is a grassroots initiative supported by local tradespeople, artists, and business mentors. Together, we’re building a vibrant, inclusive community—one project at a time.

Get Involved

As a community-driven initiative, we welcome donations of time, tools, and early-stage investment to help bring The Common Works to life.

Contact Us