Jennifer Nilan used her experience in marketing and brand management and Stephen Nilan used his background in software development to build Think Lounge together. (Katlynn Fox/Community Impact)
Crafted by working parents for working parents, Think Lounge offers a modernized approach for post-pandemic professionals. Equipped with a cafe, childcare center, coworking center and private meeting rooms—the lounge allows locals to customize their experiences.
“There's not really one consistent way that people are working these days, and what they need is flexibility,” owner Jennifer Nilan said. “We've had to become a space that's truly flexible for many different needs.”
The backstory
Before launching Think Lounge, Jennifer Nilan was navigating working a remote job while parenting two young children. She searched for a place where her kids, 9 months old and 2 years old, could both play in their own ways, while she focused on work. After trying gyms, coffee shops and co-working spaces, she wanted to craft a spot that incorporated everything she was looking for.
Jennifer Nilan and her husband Stephen officially opened Think Lounge in 2024 after dreaming of being entrepreneurs, she said.
Think Lounge keeps a 1:6 child-to-caregiver ratio, Jennifer Nilan shared. (Courtesy Think Lounge)
How it works
Think Lounge offers two modes of childcare: drop-in and year-round programming. Rates range from $14.99-$18.99 hourly, or $100 for a full day, including access to coworking amenities. Drop-in childcare is available for children ages 18 months to 8 years old.
As a more consistent childcare option, children 18 months to 5 years old will join the Nature Tots and preschool programs. Kids work in small classes, blending fine and gross motor skills, play-based sensory activities, arts and crafts, and a screen-free environment.
Think Lounge also offers coworking day passes, meeting rooms and memberships. Members get access to a dedicated desk, discounts on cafe items and conference room bookings, according to the brand’s website. Coworking costs $20 per day while the membership is $150 per month.
On the menu
Each member at Think Lounge gets access to the unlimited drip coffee. For those who want something different, the cafe menu features lattes, frappes, cold brew, americanos and cappuccinos. Other beverages include teas, refreshers, smoothies and milkshakes. Signature drinks include a caramel shaken espresso, sweet cream matcha and London fog latte.
For light bites, Think Lounge stocks food from other local businesses, Jennifer Nilan explained. Patrons can find croissants and pastries from Michelle’s Patisserie, baked goods from Lil’ Mama’s Kitchen and egg bites from Blended.
“I'm still open to bringing in some more local businesses,” Jennifer Nilan said. “There [are] so many in Austin and there's such a culture of support here for small businesses and local businesses and we're just very happy to be a part of it.”
Think Lounge designs curriculum around each child's interests, strengths and pace, according to the website. (Courtesy Think Lounge)
Going forward
Stephen Nilan utilized his experience with software development to craft the business’ in-house app, used to book childcare reservations and join waitlists. The founders are now working to build out in-app messaging and additional features.
Currently, the childcare side of the business can accommodate 17 children daily. In the future, the team hopes to welcome 24 children. Additionally, the Think Lounge team is looking for ways to still serve kids as they age out of the program through camps and after school programs, Jennifer Nilan said.
