What makes a good coworking space

Over recent years, the traditional office work space as we know it has started to see numerous changes, and coworking spaces have emerged as a frontrunner for alternative places to spend the working day. With increasing numbers of people now choosing to work away from the office, we take a look at what makes a good coworking space and the benefits they can have on our working life.

Why do coworking spaces work?

Spending all week sitting at the same desk in an office isn’t for everyone – and in fact, many people prefer the freedom and flexibility that alternative options offer. However, working from home or in communal spaces like coffee shops have their drawbacks, as both environments can be noisy, cramped and full of distractions. This is where the coworking space comes in; offering workers a respite from the repetitive scenery of the office, as well as the peace and quiet to get work done distraction-free.

Coworking spaces are also believed to increase motivation, productivity and help to create a sense of community and belonging. They have been shown to be great places to network and meet like-minded individuals that you may not have had the opportunity to connect with otherwise. Further, for those who like variety, rather than sitting at the same desk every day, the ability to choose between working in an open-plan workspace or taking a private booth for the day can be refreshing.

Why coworking spaces fail

Occasionally, coworking spaces fail – and this can happen for a few different reasons. To start with, building a coworking space in a location where there isn’t sufficient demand for one can be a risky move. In buzzy, fast-paced cities filled with young professionals, the coworking space thrives, but sparsely populated areas are less likely to attract regular footfall.

Next, the design of the space itself can cause a coworking space to fail – poorly designed spaces with insufficient desks, lack of space or reduced natural lighting are unlikely to convince visitors to come back a second time.

Finally, amenities and facilities are extremely important when it comes to the success of a coworking space. You don’t always need to provide table football, yoga classes or beer on tap – but perks and benefits usually go a long way to creating and maintaining a loyal clientele.

What makes a good coworking space

If you’re thinking about trying out a coworking space, there are several factors you should take into consideration. Firstly, location will be key – pick a workspace that’s conveniently located and won’t take too long to commute to and from. Next, look at the facilities – is there a good WiFi connection? Will you need specific equipment or meeting rooms during the day? Are there proper chairs and desks to work at? Finally, consider what you find attractive in a workplace. Lots of coworking spaces offer perks such as free drinks and snacks and fitness facilities as extra incentives.

Ultimately, your own preferences and personal requirements will dictate which coworking spaces are likely to suit you best – but we hope this article has given you an idea of the ingredients that go into making a good one.