Meet our Community Makers: Amy Lipkin, Creative Content Producer at NØRTHSEAAIR

Community Makers
Feb 20, 2025
9 min read

Discovering the Perfect Creative Space in NYC

New York City is a melting pot of creative visionaries, each searching for the perfect backdrop to bring their ideas to life. In a city where space is at a premium and expectations are high, finding a venue that balances versatility, professionalism, and seamless service can be a challenge. That’s where Cocoon Flex Spaces comes in—offering a curated portfolio of exclusive locations designed for media productions, corporate events, brand activations, and private gatherings.

In this installment of our “Community Makers” series, we highlight Amy Lipkin, co-founder of NØRTHSEAAIR, a creative agency specializing in brand marketing and strategy. Recently, her team booked Casa Caeli for a product shoot for Aura Frames, a company known for its sleek, digital picture frames. Amy’s insights offer a deep dive into the creative production world and the invaluable role a well-chosen space plays in achieving artistic vision.

cocoon casa caeli bts product photo shoot photographer

The magic behind the lens—capturing moments at Casa Caeli, a film-friendly space with ample light and dynamic interiors.

Explore our top Venues to Shoot your Product in NYC, and find the perfect space!

The Unique Role of Space in Brand Storytelling

For many production teams, selecting the right venue is as crucial as the concept itself. A space needs to offer not only aesthetic appeal but also functional versatility. Cocoon Flex Spaces has established itself as a premier provider of unique, professional locations tailored to a variety of creative needs. Whether it’s a corporate brand shoot, an intimate fashion showcase, or a high-profile media production, Cocoon’s spaces, like Casa Caeli, provide an unmatched level of professionalism and ambiance.

Beyond functionality, the atmosphere and energy of a space contribute significantly to the success of a shoot. Creative teams require a seamless workflow, a location that fosters inspiration, and logistical ease in terms of accessibility and technical support. With the right setting, brands can communicate their stories more effectively, making a lasting impression on their audience.

Casa Caeli second-floor living room with access to a modern kitchen, open-concept design ideal for corporate events, private gatherings, or production shoots requiring a flexible space for social interactions and catering.

The living area at Casa Caeli offers a bright, spacious setting with floor-to-ceiling windows—perfect for film shoots, photo productions, and creative projects.

Modern kitchen at Casa Caeli with sleek countertops and open layout, perfect for culinary event setups, media shoots featuring upscale kitchen design, or corporate offsite catering spaces.

Versatile and stylish interiors at Casa Caeli make it a go-to location for productions, with curated design elements that adapt to any creative vision.

Need some help finding the perfect space for your production? Our team is here to assist you – send us an inquiry!

About NØRTHSEAAIR: A Creative Force Behind Brand Storytelling

NØRTHSEAAIR isn’t just another creative agency—it’s a dynamic content powerhouse that has worked with some of the world’s most recognizable brands. From Nike and Hennessy to boutique artisans like Astier de Villatte, Amy and her partner Graeme Maclean have spent over 12 years crafting compelling visual narratives.

Their work spans video production, photography, and digital storytelling, always tailored to the brand’s essence. “Whatever their content needs are, we serve them,” Amy explains. Their mission is simple but powerful: to bring brand stories to life in an authentic, visually stunning way.

cocoon casa caeli bts product photo shoot amy lipkin

Behind the scenes of our Community Makers feature with Amy Lipkin, shot at Casa Caeli, a production-perfect space with natural light, versatile interiors, and a seamless creative backdrop.

A Global Journey in Creative Production

While NØRTHSEAAIR is deeply rooted in New York, its influence stretches globally. Graeme, originally from Edinburgh, Scotland, took a fascinating path to NYC via Toronto—where he played professional hockey and even ran a retail/coffee shop before fully diving into creative content production. Amy, on the other hand, grew up in New York City, finding inspiration in the eclectic mix of high-end retail, interiors, antiques, and craft.

Her nostalgic memories of wandering West 4th Street, discovering vintage treasures and quirky thrift finds, illustrate her early passion for aesthetics and storytelling—a passion that now fuels her creative work with NØRTHSEAAIR.

The Power of Authentic Visual Storytelling

What sets NØRTHSEAAIR apart is their deep commitment to authentic, visually compelling narratives. Their ability to translate brand identities into stunning visuals has made them a sought-after creative partner for major brands. Whether shooting in a cozy loft or an expansive penthouse, they know that the right space can enhance the story being told.

Their expertise extends beyond simple production—they act as brand strategists, ensuring that every piece of content aligns with the client’s broader marketing objectives. With a focus on innovative storytelling, NØRTHSEAAIR continues to push creative boundaries while delivering industry-leading visual campaigns.

cocoon casa caeli bts product photo shoot

The team in action at Casa Caeli, where spacious layouts and floor-to-ceiling windows create the perfect canvas for storytelling.

Explore unique and unconventional venues, See All Our Spaces!

The Challenges & Rewards of Creative Production

Striking a Balance: Client Expectations vs. Reality

Every industry has its hurdles, and in the world of creative content production, budget constraints and client expectations are often at odds. “Since COVID, budgets have shrunk, yet expectations have grown,” Amy shares with a laugh. “How does that work?!”

Navigating this landscape requires clear communication, ensuring clients understand their options while also respecting subcontractors’ fair wages. “We ultimately have to find a way to effectively communicate their options while also taking care not to lowball our subcontractors. That’s just not fair.”

Dream Projects: A Decade-Long Journey with Astier de Villatte

For many, dream projects remain just that—dreams. But for NØRTHSEAAIR, their partnership with Astier de Villatte has been a ten-year creative odyssey. “We’ve followed our favorite brand around the world, documenting their incredible projects and talents,” Amy says. From Paris to Japan to Tucson, Arizona, each project unfolds like a visual love letter to craftsmanship.

“Their trust in us has been such a compliment,” Amy adds, emphasizing that these projects have given them complete creative freedom—a rare and deeply fulfilling experience in commercial storytelling.

cocoon casa caeli bts product photo shoot background setup

Behind the scenes of our Community Makers feature with Amy Lipkin, styling the shelves at Casa Caeli, a production-ready space designed for creative flexibility and beautiful, natural backdrops.

The Casa Caeli Experience: Why This Space Stands Out

A Venue That Adapts to Any Vision

When NØRTHSEAAIR booked Casa Caeli for Aura Frames’ product shoot, they needed a space that could seamlessly adapt to their production needs. “Casa Caeli is extremely versatile as a location,” Amy remarks.

Located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Casa Caeli offers:
3,000 square feet of open layout across two floors
Expansive windows providing abundant natural light
Minimalist, high-end finishes that complement a range of aesthetics
A rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline
Flexible staging areas for multiple creative setups

These features make it ideal for product shoots, brand campaigns, and high-end productions.

Beyond just providing a space, Cocoon’s SuperConcierge service offers tailored support for productions. From vendor coordination to last-minute needs, this premium service ensures filmmakers and event planners can focus on their creative vision without the operational headaches.

LeRoi, the Casa Manager for Amy’s booking says Hi. Learn more about our Casa Managers services in Our exclusive Casa Manager services: Designed for successful hosting in unconventional venues blog!

Explore Casa Caeli

Seamless Booking & Professional Service

Amy praises Cocoon’s structured approach to venue management. “Cocoon is extremely organized and professional. We like the quick communications and very clear expectations. There are no mysteries—which is exactly what we want when we work with someone.”

What sets Cocoon apart? Unlike other location rental services, Cocoon offers:

Professional on-site management for hassle-free shoots
Curated venues that elevate the production value
Transparent booking processes with no last-minute surprises
High-end service that caters to premium clientele needs

Casa Caeli's spacious lounge area with modern decor, large windows, and comfortable seating.

Natural light streams into Casa Caeli, providing an airy, open atmosphere that enhances every shot without additional equipment.

Front view of the rooftop deck at Casa Caeli with lush greenery, offering a peaceful and inviting outdoor space, ideal for intimate gatherings or nature-inspired film settings.

The rooftop at Casa Caeli boasts stunning skyline views, offering a picturesque, elevated backdrop for outdoor shoots and events.

Explore unique and unconventional venues, See All Our Spaces!

Bring Your Vision to Life with Cocoon Flex Spaces

Amy’s experience at Casa Caeli is a testament to Cocoon’s commitment to providing premium creative spaces. Whether you’re a production company, event planner, or creative agency, Cocoon Flex Spaces has the perfect venue for you.

Ready to book your next project? Schedule a consultation today

Frequently Asked Questions:

What types of events can I host at Casa Caeli?

Casa Caeli is perfect for media productions, product shoots, corporate offsites, private events, brand activations, fashion showcases, and intimate dinner parties. The venue’s adaptability and open layout make it ideal for both small, curated experiences and larger, dynamic productions.

Does Casa Caeli provide on-site assistance?

Yes! Cocoon offers dedicated Casa Managers who ensure that your booking runs smoothly from start to finish. Our team is available to assist with setup, logistics, and any unexpected challenges, so you can focus on bringing your vision to life.

What amenities does Casa Caeli offer?

Casa Caeli boasts an array of premium amenities, including:

High ceilings and abundant natural light for professional photography and film shoots
Open-concept kitchen ideal for culinary events or catered productions
Rooftop terrace with Manhattan skyline views for breathtaking shots
Versatile, stylish interiors that can be easily adapted to various themes
High-speed WiFi and technical support to keep your team connected throughout the event
One-of-a-kind views of Manhattan’s skyline
Sonos sound-system with speakers spread throughout the house
TV screen and projector screen for presentations or entertainment
Semi-professional kitchen for elevated culinary needs
Pool table for added entertainment

How does Cocoon Flex Spaces differ from competitors?

Cocoon provides a higher level of service and professionalism, with curated spaces that are a cut above standard venue rental platforms. Unlike generic venue booking sites, Cocoon offers:

A carefully selected portfolio of stunning, flexible locations
Exclusive venues not listed elsewhere, ensuring a unique backdrop for your event
Seamless, transparent booking processes with no hidden fees
Access to a professional concierge team to help you coordinate additional needs and accomplish more in less time

Can I schedule a site visit before booking?

Absolutely! We encourage prospective clients to schedule a tour of Casa Caeli to ensure the space meets their needs. You can book a visit with our team to experience the venue firsthand and discuss how we can tailor it to your event.

How can I book a space for my next event?

You can easily schedule a consultation with Cocoon’s team to find the perfect venue for your needs. Our experts will guide you through the selection process and ensure that every detail is handled with precision and care.

Written By

Piero Faggiolly

Piero Faggiolly is a Marketing Specialist at Cocoon Flex Spaces, where he works closely with the team to share practical insights about event venues, media productions, weddings, brand activations, and corporate gatherings across New York City.

Need a space?

Let us know what you’re planning, and we can help you find the perfect space.

Group portrait of the Cocoon team in a bright studio space, with members casually posing on chairs, stools, and the floor, a man sitting on a ladder reading a book, and a disco ball and plants on the floor.

Find more tips and great articles in Our Blog

Community Makers: Chef Nicole Gajadhar at Casa Estrella