The co-working space trend is showing no signs of slowing down. If you worked on starting your own business or at a start-up, chances are good that you’ve worked in a shared office at some point. Everyone who has worked in that type of environment knows, having a well-designed space can advance your business's chances for success exponentially.
What makes a good office space?
In one-word co-working spaces offer flexibility. Thanks largely to the increase of independent work, i.e. freelancing, startup jobs, new business start-up, more and more people are seeking a place where they can not only get things done but also have plenty of autonomy when they need it.
7 Elements of Good Co-working Space Design
1 – Flexibility, part 1: “I” and “we” spaces
At its core, a co-working space is a workplace that offers both private and group work areas. The greatness of a co-work space is that they offer unique cross-breed opportunities. For example, say you’re a tech startup CEO, you might be pleasantly surprised to find that an uber-talented developer that you need is sitting right next to you. That is the best of what co-work space design offers, the opportunity for professional mingling.
2 – Flexibility, part 2: varied seating arrangements
In a traditional office set up the desk and office chair setup has their place. At a co-working space, so does a beanbag, a bench, a single office alcove, etc…
Why all this variety? It helps the brain get a fresh perspective. This is especially helpful for coders trying to solve specific problems, or creative who are stuck in a rut.
3 – Flexibility, part 3: different sceneries
Essentially, this is taking varied seating arrangements to a whole new scale. This is an even more powerful tool for stimulating the brain, creating a different mood, or simply taking a break. You can have rooms that are closer in looks to traditional office space or looks that are more modern, colorful, or Artsy with playful patterns and accessories.
For example, designs can include converting a former church or be inspired by a coffee bar.
4 – Good design
Beautiful things are very effective in attracting people. In the case of a shared workspace, it makes members excited to come in. On a deeper level, good design isn’t just easy on the eyes: It’s also a reflection of the type of members a co-working space wants to attract.
5 – Going green
This means two things: living plants and being green-certified. The first has been proven again and again to reduce stress. Not only that: They’re pretty!
6 – Snacks
This is not trivial, snacks, and the quality thereof; make a big difference in members’ experience and perception of a co-working space. Some nice coffee, healthy food, fruit, chips, etc. would be good. Food stations make an extra area for collaboration.
7 – Office necessities
Of course, the fanciest co-working space won’t be any good unless the basics are covered. Start with a variety of lighting: big windows for natural light, task lighting, and warm ambient light. Don’t forget climate control — allow variability in different areas if you can.
Also included in necessities are office supplies; basics like paper, pens, pencils, staplers, paper clips, a copy machine, a printer, and more. It’s conveniences like these that make a difference.
Last but not least Wi-Fi coverage and speed, are a must.
Finally
You can save yourself lots of time and effort by creating a product specification template specifically for this type of project. Make a checklist of the standard items: lighting, HVAC, flooring, furniture, etc. Then contact our team of experts at www.BHIbuilds.com and we will help you build the co-work space of your dreams.
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