ModernWell, the women-centered coworking space founded in Minneapolis, is expanding to downtown Wayzata with a second location set to open later this year—bringing fresh energy to a development that has long struggled to find its rhythm.
According to an article from the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal, ModernWell will occupy 2,500 square feet on the ground floor of The Hotel Landing at 985 Lake Street East, part of The Promenade of Wayzata, a mixed-use development by Presbyterian Homes. The space, which has sat vacant for nearly seven years, will soon feature open coworking areas, private offices, meeting rooms, phone booths, a kitchenette, and a patio with views of Wayzata Bay. Members will also enjoy complimentary underground parking.
The Promenade—built on the site of the former Bay Center mall—has faced leasing challenges since its inception. But with ModernWell signing on and other recent activity nearby, there appears to be renewed momentum in activating the ground-floor commercial spaces and revitalizing this central stretch of Lake Street.
Julie Burton, ModernWell’s founder and a longtime advocate for women in business and wellness, launched the original location in 2018 in Minneapolis’ Bryn Mawr neighborhood. She created ModernWell to be “a bright, warm, comfortable space where members are inspired to unleash their creativity and empowered to achieve personal and professional success,” according to the company’s website.
Unlike the more residential setting of its original home, the new Wayzata outpost will offer a highly walkable environment—with restaurants, boutiques, fitness studios, and the lake just steps away.
The lease was facilitated by Emily Massie of Colliers real estate, who secured the deal at a below-market rate. Burton and her team also hold first rights to an additional 10,000 square feet within the same building should the coworking space reach capacity.
ModernWell’s arrival not only marks a new chapter for professional women in Wayzata—it may also hint at a broader comeback for The Promenade, and a more vibrant, connected downtown.
