There’s something truly inspiring about a mom who sees a need and steps up to create the solution. It's exactly what Nicole Batiste is doing with nest & nook, a brand new co-working space and play loft opening soon in Thornwood. Born from her own experience as a parent and entrepreneur, Nicole is building the kind of welcoming, community-friendly space she wished existed and she's inviting all of us along for the journey.
From asking for parent input to sharing behind-the-scenes updates, Nicole has been open, engaged, and full of the kind of determination only a mom can bring. The reception from local families has been filled with excitement, and it’s easy to see why. At nest & nook, parents will have a cozy spot to work, connect, or grab a coffee while their children play safely nearby in a thoughtfully designed space.
I’m so looking forward to getting to know Nicole and spending time at Nest and Nook with my own family. It’s clear this space will be more than just a quick stop. It will be a much-needed hub for community, connection, and play. Westchester, get ready! Something special is on the way!
What is the story behind your business? How did you get started?
I created this concept out of a real need I experienced myself. When my kids were small, I often felt torn between being present for them and maintaining my own sense of productivity, identity, and community. At the same time, I saw so many friends stepping away from careers, passing up promotions, and scaling back their hours – not always because they wanted to, but because childcare was too expensive or inaccessible and the balancing act was impossible.
I also witnessed how isolating it can be for stay-at-home parents who lack daily adult interaction. It is a societal gap that disproportionately impacts women. My vision was to build a space where all of us, working parents, stay-at-home parents, and even remote workers without kids, could gather in a way that feels inclusive and supportive. Nest & Nook is designed to create connection and common ground in a world that often emphasizes division.
What are some fun facts about you?
I love blending different concepts together and seeing what sticks. In my personal life, I love being creative, but don’t feel like I’m not good at it, so I do things to up my creative game whenever I can. One of the things I do often is songwriting. Writing lyrics feels like therapy to me although I’m a terrible guitar player so I haven’t really brought that part of myself to the world in any meaningful way yet!
- I love bringing big ideas to life—whether it’s launching a new company, planning events, or dreaming up ways to bring people together.
- Coffee is my love language… and yes, nest and nook will have great coffee!
- I believe in work-life blend more than work-life balance, which is why this space is designed to support both kids and adults at the same time.
- Before starting nest and nook, I co-led a health tech company that connected patients with clinical trials—so creating solutions that truly help people has always been part of my DNA.
- I’m also a singer-songwriter and love creating music in my free time - see above!
- When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me outdoors with my family, exploring local parks or farmer’s markets.
What are some fun facts about your business?
- Nest and nook was born from a personal need. As a mom working from home, I wished for a cozy, flexible space where I could relax or stay productive while my kids played safely nearby—so I created it.
- It’s really two spaces in one. There’s a soft play area for little ones and a quiet lounge for adults with WiFi and comfortable seating. Parents can sip coffee, catch up on work, or simply take a breath while staying close to their kids.
- I wanted it to be flexible. Families can drop in for a single visit, buy a 10-visit pack, or become unlimited monthly members—whatever works best for their routine.
- It even has an after-school twist. From 3–5 PM, the space transforms into a homework and play zone for young elementary kids, blending productivity with fun.
- It’s all about community. Nest and nook isn’t just a play space; it’s a place to connect with other parents, caregivers, and neighbors.
- I love supporting local. We’ll be sourcing snacks, drinks, and event collaborations from local small businesses whenever possible.
- It’s more than just play. Beyond daily visits, the space will also host creative family-friendly events, parties, and community meetups.
What does your business offer its' customers?
- A quiet lounge with WiFi and cozy seating for remote work or relaxation
- A connected play area for children with soft play equipment and age-appropriate toys
- Flexible access options such as single visits, multi-visit packs, or monthly memberships for families
- Snacks and drinks for purchase
- After-school homework hours for young children (coming soon)
- Private party rentals and family-friendly events in the evenings
What are you most proud of?
In life? Hands-down, it’s my children. In career? It’s the ability to see a need and build something that meets it. I built an affordable wedding planning business back in 2013 when I saw a trend of millennials not being able to afford extra extravagant events, and moving towards a DIY approach. I wanted to bring people together for their special moments without having to break the bank. For this business concept, I see a real need for parents to have connection. The space is for people from all walks of life, who are just juggling it all and trying to find their community. Having a local space where you can be productive, or just relax with other parents who “get it” while your kids play safely nearby in a private indoor climate controlled and comfortable play space feels like a win for so many of us. I’m proud of this idea and hopeful that everyone can benefit from accessing it
Nest & Nook is the natural extension of my personal journey and professional expertise, rooted in the belief that when caregivers are supported, entire communities flourish. I can’t wait to share this concept with everyone!
Be in touch!
Web: nest & nook
IG: https://www.instagram.com/nestandnookny
Email:nicole@nestandnookny.com
