From Recovery to Creativity: How Sonia Stackhouse turned a life-changing experience into Little Lane Workshops, a thriving community space
A personal journey led to a business built on connection, creativity and helping others find calm through art.
Finding a new path through creativity
After two serious accidents left her in a wheelchair for a number of years, Sonia Stackhouse, founder of Little Lane Workshops, found herself navigating a very different chapter.
The shift from a busy corporate career to focusing on recovery, while raising three young children, had a significant impact on her mental health.
During that time, creativity became a turning point. Working on art and craft projects offered moments of calm and focus — a way to step outside the uncertainty and find a sense of control and hope.
“When I was focused on a project, my problems ceased to exist for a while. It was mindfulness and meditation in the form of creativity.”
As her recovery progressed, so did a new idea. If creativity could be so powerful in her own life, could it help others too? That question became the foundation for Little Lane Workshops.
A space built on connection and care
Little Lane Workshops has grown into a creative studio centred on community, inclusivity and connection.
Guests are welcomed into a warm and supportive environment — whether it’s their first visit or one of many.
The studio also provides a platform for creatives, artists and teachers to share their skills, with support to help them build confidence in teaching and connecting with others.
Today, Little Lane Workshops works with more than 40 teachers across a wide range of creative mediums, offering adult workshops, school holiday programs, after-school classes and private events.
“Everyone who walks through our doors is treated like family.”
Growing through community and experience
Word of mouth has been one of the most powerful drivers of growth for Little Lane Workshops.
Creating positive, memorable experiences encourages people to return and to share those experiences with others.
Social media and local collaborations also play a role, helping people discover the business and feel familiar with the space before they visit.
“Social media gives people a glimpse into what we do and helps them feel comfortable before they even step through the door.”
At the heart of the business is a strong focus on care. Every guest is treated as an individual, with the aim of ensuring they leave feeling even better than when they arrived.
“Caring for our community is everything to us. We are truly and proudly a heart-led business.”
Challenges and lessons along the way
Like many businesses, Little Lane faced significant challenges during COVID-19.
With in-person workshops no longer possible, the team quickly adapted, developing an online store and offering art kits and virtual classes to stay connected with their community.
While the shift was driven by necessity, it also created new opportunities. When face-to-face classes resumed, the business had an additional revenue stream and a broader reach.
That experience reinforced the value of staying flexible and open to change — with some of the most challenging moments creating unexpected opportunities for growth.
“What felt like one of the hardest moments turned out to have a silver lining.”
The experience reinforced an important lesson: challenges can often lead to new directions.
“Sometimes we need to believe that good things can come from not so good things.”
Life on the Northern Beaches
Running a business on the Northern Beaches offers both lifestyle and connection.
For the Little Lane Workshops team, it’s the people that make the biggest difference - a community that values creativity, support and shared experiences.
“The scenery is incredible, but it’s the people and the sense of community that make it special.”
Outside of the studio, creativity remains a constant, with new projects always on the go.
Time is also spent enjoying the local area, from markets and cafés, to simply slowing down and taking in everyday moments.
Supporting local businesses is something the team values deeply.
“When you support local, you’re supporting families, livelihoods and the dreams of the people around you.”
Looking ahead
Little Lane Workshops continues to grow its creative community.
Plans include expanding the network of local teachers and introducing new workshops, including more opportunities for families and children to create and connect together.
The focus remains the same — creating a welcoming space where people can come together, learn something new and leave feeling inspired.
Little Lane’s tips for other small businesses
- Back yourself - even when the path forward feels uncertain
- Look for opportunities in challenges and be open to pivoting
- Create experiences people want to return to and share
- Focus on building genuine community, not just customers
- Stay true to your values as that’s what sets you apart
- Protect your mental health - it underpins everything you do
Our monthly Beaches Biz News delivers local Northern Beaches news straight to your inbox from promotional opportunities you can get involved in, Council news, grants available and more.