What is a Coworking Space?

A coworking space can be simply described as a space you can rent in a professional work environment. But that dry description does not do them justice. Coworking spaces go far beyond just being a place to work; work is important, but coworking spaces can be about creating, networking, and even having fun. They have become one of the most flexible, dynamic, and cost-effective ways to work.

The rise of coworking

The history of coworking is linked to social and technological change. Historically, coworking spaces were relatively rare. Although many landlords provided office space, coworking spaces were not common. If you could find a space, the chances were, you’d be sharing a poorly maintained room with poor facilities that the landlord hadn’t managed to rent any other way.

But over the last decade, it has become more popular as people increasingly value their work-life balance, and technology has made remote working easier. It has meant more and more people have sought places to work, whether it’s for an employer or because they are striking out as a freelancer or a small business.

Coworking spaces have matched this trend, providing more than just a desk space, but everything a traditional office does. And more.

Types of coworking spaces

Modern coworking spaces can be compared to professional open-plan and hot desk environments. One of the benefits of coworking, though, is the flexibility. And that’s matched by the coworking options we offer.

Flexible desk space

If you occasionally need a place to work, we have spaces ready for you. You can rent a desk for just a day, giving you a calm, focused space, whether for a change of scene or to help you focus on meeting that deadline!

Desk space packages

If you want a regular space because you don’t have a home office or just want the separation, we offer a range of packages. From discounted hot desk access to a dedicated space, so you always have somewhere ready for work.

Virtual office packages

Just because you are coworking doesn’t mean you don’t need an office. Our venues have staffed receptions, but our packages can give you benefits more often associated with a physical business, like a business mail address and a dedicated direct line.

The benefits that coworking spaces offer

People frequently see coworking as a compromise between working from home or in an office. In fact, it offers the benefits of both, and adds even more.

Flexibility

Coworking can be incredibly flexible. Some of our locations offer hot-desking from just £10 + VAT for those that may just want a few hours for flexible working. We also know businesses grow and change, so our packages match that. We can increase your space and facilities exactly when your business needs them, making that part of growing your business easy.

Cost-effective

The fee you pay for your coworking space covers everything. You just need to bring your computer along, and everything else is included. From practical services like connectivity, to breakout areas away from your desk, all the way to free refreshments and relaxation, like enjoying a stroll in the woodland around Wrest Park, or a slightly more energetic game of table tennis at Regal Court.

Networking

For many, the networking opportunities of coworking are the best part of it. When you use a coworking space, you will be sharing it with everyone from new freelancers to established businesses you would never meet working at home or in an office. All our locations run regular events; we’ve lost count of how many coworkers have made new friends and found new business through them.

Who uses coworking spaces?

There is no such thing as a typical coworker. The only common factor between all the people who use our locations is that they value the space we provide, but they can come from almost anywhere.

• Freelancers and homeworkers: coworking spaces are a popular option for those who do not have an office space, giving them a dedicated place to work and the social opportunities that they miss from an office.
• Small businesses and startups: Coworking spaces are ideal for smaller and growing businesses. It provides them, and their staff, with flexible, affordable workspaces that can grow with them, avoiding the headaches of managing leased office space.
• Big businesses: Larger businesses use coworking spaces in addition to their established offices. Uses can include providing spaces for remote workers who are not based near an office, but also to bring project teams together, or to manage moves, taking advantage of the flexibility that coworking spaces offer.

Choosing the ideal coworking space

We all have different needs and preferences, and there will be a coworking space to match.

Location

Perhaps the most important factor will be location. You need to be able to get to your coworking space. We have coworking in four locations, from city centres to out-of-town centres in beautiful rural settings. But most important are the transport links; our centres are all close to major transport networks, and offer private parking and secure cycle spaces, making it easy for you to get there, however you travel.

Facilities

We aspire to be more than just a desk for you. We know that your workspace is essential, that’s why our working areas feature careful design and high-quality furniture. But we know that time away from the desk matters too.
All our coworking spaces feature break-out spaces, private offices, meeting rooms, communal areas, and well-maintained facilities, as we know that a five-minute break can be just as critical to your productivity as the hours at your desk.

Community

Perhaps the biggest strength of coworking is the community. We provide great places to work, but put just as much effort into building great communities. All our venues offer events all year round, from Christmas parties to summer picnics, giving you a chance to relax, meet your coworking neighbours and network.

Find your coworking space today

Whatever your needs, we can help you find the right space for you. From an occasional desk through to a virtual office while your business grows, call or email us to discuss how we can help. You can also book a tour to see our workspaces for yourself; you might just find your perfect coworking space.