Coworking spaces are the future of work. They’re flexible, collaborative, and fun. But how do you make a coworking space that inspires people to work better? Here is how to understand what coworking is and how its design can impact work.
Design matters
Design matters. It influences the way you work, and it influences the way people feel about a space. Design can make a space more efficient and functional, but it also has an impact on productivity and creativity.
Design can help you stand out in the marketplace by creating a unique experience for your employees that differentiates your company from its competitors.
Size counts
The optimal size for a coworking space is large enough to accommodate your needs but small enough that you can easily communicate with each other. A too-large space will make it difficult to have meaningful conversations or build relationships within the group, while a too-small space will make it difficult to share ideas or get work done.
To determine how many people you should plan on accommodating in your new coworking space, ask yourself the following questions:
- How many desks do I need?
- Are there going to be frequent meetings?
- Will my clients want some privacy when they talk with me?
- Do I need space for private phone calls?
- How much storage do I need for files and equipment?
- Should there be a place where people can eat lunch together (or at least sit down)?
- How much room does everyone need between their desk and other members’ desks?
Once you’ve considered these questions, consider as well what kind of activities take place in your coworking space — are people mostly working alone or collaboratively; do they spend most of their time having meetings or just setting up shop at their desks; do they spend most of their time talking on the phone or working silently at their computers; etc.
Let there be light
Lighting can make a huge difference in the way you work. Lighting can be used to create a mood and set the tone for your workspace.
For example, if you want to create an open and inviting environment with plenty of daylight or natural light, then large windows would be best. You may also want to consider adding some task lighting by placing lamps on desks or tables that are ideally adjustable so that they can be moved as needed. This will help ensure that everyone has enough light when they’re working on projects or reading materials online.
If you prefer dimmer settings with less natural light coming through windows and doorways, then recessed lights are probably right up your alley. They’ll give off soft illumination which makes them ideal for brainstorming sessions in the evening where there’s no need for harsh overhead lighting that could disrupt conversations among coworkers who may be using different areas within your coworking space at any given time during business hours.
The right color in the right place
Color is often the first thing that comes to mind when you think about designing spaces. It can be used to create a mood, make a space feel bigger or smaller, and help people focus on their work. But what about other aspects of color?
Think about how colors interact with each other in different situations. For example, blue and red create a warm sensation; purple and yellow create an uplifting one. While combining colors may seem contradictory at first glance (red and green don’t go well together if you want to convey Christmas), they can be used in tandem when done correctly.
Here’s an example: If you want your coworking space to feel more formal, try using darker colors like navy blue or burgundy on walls while keeping tables neutral with lighter shades such as white or gray tones
Furnishings make a space
Furnishings can make a space feel cozy, stylish, and welcoming—or they can suck the life out of it. It’s important to have the right furniture and accessories that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
For example, if you are working on an office space with a limited budget, then there is no reason why your desk should be covered in coffee stains from your last long night at work; instead, invest in some attractive coasters if you’re worried about staining your item of choice. Similarly, make sure that when someone enters your coworking space, they don’t feel like they’re about to step into a college dorm room or an old folks’ home.
On top of being able to help create an inviting environment for clients, furnishings can also help you create a space where you can focus on what matters most: doing great work.
Conclusion
Coworking spaces are a great way for coworkers to meet new people and grow their businesses. The best ones are designed with your comfort and productivity in mind, so you can get right down to work without any distractions or interruptions.