Women-Focused Space Opens in North St. Petersburg With Co-Working, Childcare, and Fitness Classes

Paloma House launched Jan. 29 at 10787 Oak St. NE in North St. Petersburg. This 8,000-square-foot facility on 1.8 acres targets women who need workspace, childcare, and wellness programs all in one spot.

Founder Sophie Moenter built this after she had her first baby and couldn't find the support she wanted. Melissa Darr runs the place as founding director. What started as casual coffee gatherings became The Mom Collective, then grew into this brick-and-mortar location.

"When I became a mom, I realized how essential community is — and how hard it is to find one that feels real, welcoming, and inspiring," Moenter told St. Pete Rising during a property tour. "I wanted to create a space where women could show up fully, without feeling like they had to choose between who they are and how they live."

Inside, there's a playhouse, social lounge, workspace area, wellness studio, café, and backyard. Moms can drop kids at the playcare center while they work or attend classes nearby.

"The goal is to bridge that gap for mothers after maternity leave but before their kids enter preschool," Moenter said. "For women who work remotely or have flexibility, it gives them a way to get things done outside of the house while still feeling close to their little one."

Classes run all day. Mommy & Me meetups happen alongside Music & Me and Sensory Studio sessions for children. Fitness offerings span Sweat-Lift-Roll, mid-day HIIT, mat Pilates, Tiny Dancers babywearing dance class, prenatal yoga, and stretch sessions. Movie nights, networking mixers, and family picnics round out the schedule.

Nine businesses owned by women and mothers operate from the building. Service providers include Sophie Natalie Photography, Florida Birth Movement, Lactation Loop, Haven Pelvic Health, Therapy By Her, Natalie Schneider Counseling, Speech Therapy of Pinellas, and House Calls for Kids. Bean Wandering sells canned iced lattes on-site.

Moenter pulled ideas from trips through Greece and Italy, where public spaces invited people to stay and talk. Membership costs $50 monthly. Drop-in rates work for those attending single classes or events. Private gatherings like showers, birthdays, and weddings can book the venue.

A grand opening happens on Feb. 22 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Guests can tour the building, meet providers, and enjoy food, drinks, music, and activities for children.