​We want to build the best hackerspace we possibly can. If its going to be a HackADay official space then it really needs to be awesome. So, what goes into a great hackerspace?

The Philosophy

There seem to be a variety of styles of hackerspace. From the incredibly engineering oriented ​Null Space Labs to the far more casual hackerspaces that seem to be more common. We need to set the right tone for our space so that we get out of it something amazing. We want a lot of cool things to come out of the space that we wouldn't ordinarily see.

This isn't a TechShop where you turn up, use the laser cutter and leave. This is an extension of your workshop, a place you come to do things, not just sit around on sofas and drink beer. Getting this feeling right is going to be a big part of the success or failure of the space.

The Space

First off the space is of prime importance. We want it to be within a short distance of the SupplyFrame HQ which is in Old Town Pasadena, this gives us access to shops and food so we can spend more time in the space without having to get too far from our projects.

We want a few thousand square feet at least since we want to have space for heavy machinery as well as work space for our members. We also want high ceilings to ensure our imaginations are not limited by head height!

We also want enough space for car parking since parking in LA and Pasadena area can be a bit of a nightmare at times, and we want easy access to our space for unloading equipment and project materials.

We've started the hunt for a space that is suitable, but we haven't found one yet, so if you have any ideas please let us know in the comments!

The Equipment

At minimum we want enough soldering equipment for everyone, and a laser cutter and 3d printer. But that's just the start, there's an almost infinite number of tools you could want in a hackerspace. We've started putting together a wish list of all the tools and parts we'd want in the ​Components List on this project, so check that out and let us know in the comments here what we're missing or what the best options are. For instance whats the best laser cutter we should buy?

The Projects

One thing we're all in agreement on with regard to the HackASpace is we want projects to be going on. We want a big group project that anyone can contribute to. This should be an ambitious thing, something you wouldn't try and do as an individual. It should bring together people from across a variety of disciplines to make something truly special. We have a great collection of talent in Pasadena, lets make use of it! If you have any ideas for something we should build let us know.