Colorado natives and sisters, Rachel Askelson and Michelle Conrad combined their psychology, education and meditation backgrounds to create a community-driven sanctuary for children and parents. Last week, Space, an art studio and wellness center in Wheat Ridge officially opened its doors to focus on cultivating creativity, connection and personal growth for Colorado families.
Although there are countless playgrounds and activity centers for children in and around the Mile High City, few cater to parents and kids while centering around holistic well-being and artistic expression. “We wanted to create something we wished existed—an intentional, heart-centered space that helps parents feel supported and seen while giving children a foundation in community, mindfulness, creativity and self-expression,” said Conrad. “Motherhood can often feel isolating, and we longed for a community of like-minded individuals navigating similar journeys. At the same time, we were always seeking tools for self-expansion and self-regulation, not just for ourselves but for our children as well.”
Askelson and Conrad’s approach to creativity is unlike any other. Instead of coloring books, building blocks and slime, children may let their imaginations run wild by painting on the walls. Paint and Pause encourage artistic freedom while introducing concepts of impermanence, awareness and boundaries to kids. “The ability to paint on the walls provides a rare opportunity for boundless expression—one that most traditional art or play spaces don’t offer,” said Conrad. “It is more than just a fun activity, it’s a lesson in self-expression and respect for shared spaces. It encourages both kids and adults to explore creativity without boundaries while learning about awareness and collaboration.” Paint and Pause is not only for children, it’s an opportunity for parents to unwind and enjoy messy creations without cleaning up at home.
Not only does space in Colorado provide opportunities for creative growth, but it offers moments for self-development and community cultivation. Inner-Wellness Workshops incorporate breathwork and mindfulness tools to help embrace vulnerability, strengthen communication and nourish the relationship between parents and their children in an inclusive environment.
“Space is designed to strengthen the bonds and enhance one’s journey,” said Conrad. Through the use of emotional wellness activities, workshops for children aim to “help kids nurture self-love, explore emotions and develop self-regulation skills.” Parents can take a moment for themselves with workshops designed for adults, as well as workshops that navigate parenthood. “We really wanted to be intentional about creating experiences that nurture connection, emotional wellness, shared and individual growth while developing a community of people with these shared interests.”
Created specifically for parents, space provides two meditation experiences. Start your busy week with a slow Monday Morning Meditation. Guided meditations quiet the mind from the chaos of daily life. Re-center, reduce stress and wipe away stress. Open your heart with Monthly Cacao Meditation. “Combining the healing properties of ceremonial grade cacao with breathing exercises, guided meditation, sound healing and reflection, these sessions foster deep relaxation, emotional release, and inner connection.”
Space celebrates its grand opening last week aiming to fill the gap in Denver’s family activity and wellness centers. “Parents are often so focused on caring for others that their well-being is often overlooked, but taking care of ourselves is not selfish—it’s necessary,” said Askelson. “At the same time, children need more freedom to learn and grow through creativity, rather than just structured expectations. Space was created to nurture both—offering parents a supportive community and children the tools to navigate emotions while embracing their creativity.“
Visit and experience the power of space in Colorado with drop-in paint sessions, workshops, meditation and event rentals.