A co-working space is a shared workspace where people from different companies or freelance professionals work together. Such spaces are designed to provide a conducive work environment for people who work independently or work from home. Bednar and colleagues (2023) discovered that co-working spaces can develop a creative ecosystem with systematic collective learning engaging different stakeholders.
With hybrid and remote work policies becoming increasingly popular, such spaces offer a convenient arrangement for employees and entrepreneurs.
In 2022, a study by Coworking Resources, a publication dedicated to the co-working industry, estimated a 158% increase in the use of co-working spaces by 2024. Private companies and entrepreneurs often invest in commercial real estate to design these spaces and offer memberships or rental options to start ups or individuals.
How to craft a perfect co-working space?
Designing a co-working space that suits the needs of individuals from different organizations with different work habits, sounds like a challenging feat. Here’s a step-by-step approach that will help you figure out your design plan.
A thorough needs assessment
It is important to assess the needs of your target community before you start designing your co-working space. You can do surveys, distribute questionnaires, conduct focus group discussions, take interviews, observe existing spaces, and use your research insights for a pilot program. Once your space is soft launched, offer free trials or memberships to a small number of people to test it out. Ask for feedback and re-design certain aspects before you proceed to reach out to a bigger audience.
Basic design principles
Every group of users has different preferences, and the design can change according to that. But there are a few basic elements that act as a blueprint on which finer details can be constructed. Here are a few things that almost every co-working space needs to appeal to its users.
1. Invest in a good interior
Research in architectural firms revealed that workspace design is linked to productivity of employees (Fahim et.al., 2023). The aesthetic value of a co-working space is linked to people’s motivation, energy and productivity. As you get to know your users, think about what kind of ‘vibe’ they would want in their co-working space.
Some people might value a functional space with enough amenities, some might want an inspiring, unconventional environment, and others might just want a homey arrangement with soft furniture and subtle interiors. Make sure you know what kind of interior you are aiming for, so that you can decide your color palette and choice of furniture accordingly.
2. Attractive lighting
Attractive lighting creates an inviting environment for users. A study by Kropman and colleagues (2022) revealed that factors like daylight, office layout, and temperature are related to the mental health of employees. A blend of natural and artificial lighting sources can be achieved by placing workstations near windows for ample daylight. Light-colored curtains or blinds can allow natural light to filter through, while.
Adjustable desk lamps for quiet spaces and pendant lights over communal tables are great examples of customizing lighting according to what the space needs. The lighting should be adjustable in terms of brightness to match the natural daylight patterns. Incorporate indirect lighting, such as LED strips or wall-mounted fixtures, to create a soft, diffused glow that enhances the overall ambiance without causing harsh shadows.
3. Seating options
Comfort and functionality are equally important while designing seating options in a co-working space. It is a good idea to keep separate work zones for different kinds of tasks so that users can switch according to their convenience.
An open space with rows of workstations gives people a sense of community. Collaborative areas with whiteboards and comfortable seating could be great for small team meetings. It can be a daunting task to accommodate all needs in one space. Modular and mobile furniture is the key to achieving this goal. Movable partitions, rolling chairs, portable storage units, and adjustable desks are the building blocks of a dynamic workspace.
4. Accessibility
Inclusivity and accessibility are vital for reaching out to a larger audience. Parking spaces, wheelchair ramps, visual and auditory signage, accessible washrooms and elevators ensure easy access to users with disabilities and users with an advanced age.
Sensitivity training for staff helps create an inclusive atmosphere. It fosters a sense of responsibility among users to make the space inclusive and welcoming for all. A study by Akhavan and Mariotti (2023) shows that social proximity and a sense of community is linked to coworkers’ wellbeing. Provide a channel for your users to give feedback about the accessibility of the space. Also, ensure that your website is visible, accessible and user-friendly for the people who look you up online.
4. Efficient layout
While aesthetics is important to attract users, the functionality of the layout is the key to sustaining it. As you make arrangements for diverse seating areas and zones, make sure that it is easy for users to move about and access these spaces without disturbing the work environment.
Consider how much physical space you have, and select elements accordingly. For instance, make sure that desks are not crammed, quiet zones are not located close to social areas, and important doorways are not blocked by a coffee station or water cooler. Ensure seamless high-speed internet and enough power outlets and charging stations, as technology is vital for remote employees.
5. Invest in technology
A basic design may not necessarily require features like soundproofing and smart lighting, but they can certainly add to the attractiveness of your co-working space. Apart from work-related tools like video conferencing services, projectors and workspace management software, you can also explore tools that help users connect with each other and socialize on a personal level. Mobile apps for socializing, fitness and stress reduction are a great way to increase community engagement.
Designing a co-working space requires a comprehensive understanding of the needs of your target audience, and creative solutions that allow you to create a customized workspace with available funds and resources. You can use the strategies from this article to create a blueprint for your co-working space plan.
By understanding the specific needs of the community, creating a functional layout, and ensuring comfort, co-working space providers can create a space that attracts and retains members. After all, a well-planned co-working space is not just a physical location; it’s a hub of innovation and inspiration, shaping the future of work.
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