What’s the Best Coworking Layout?
This article explores the best coworking space layouts to boost productivity, collaboration, and member satisfaction. It highlights common design mistakes - such as overcrowding, lack of communal areas, monotonous spaces, and poor comfort - and provides practical guidance on creating flexible, functional, and inspiring workspaces. Operators will learn how to research member needs, incorporate sustainable practices, and design spaces that balance focus, collaboration, and comfort for long-term success.
It’s estimated that 30% of all workspaces will be flexible by 2030, so getting the layout right has never been more important for providers. From collaborative work zones that inspire creativity to spaces where meetings and focused work can take place in peace, there is a growing need for variety.
When designing your coworking space layout, how can you get it right? While the best setup depends on your members’ work habits, there are common design mistakes you should avoid.
Mistakes in Coworking Layout and Design
Most flexible workspaces offer a better setup than a home office, but poor planning can still lead to major layout issues. Here are design choices that can detract from the cohesion and overall feel of your coworking space.
Overcrowded Spaces
Not having enough room is a major drawback. While squeezing in as many desks as possible might seem profitable, overcrowded spaces feel unwelcoming, uncomfortable, and unproductive. No one wants to feel like they are working on top of someone else.
Skipping Out on Communal Space
Many people choose coworking for the social aspect. Being around others increases connection, comfort, and productivity. Without communal areas to grab lunch, exchange ideas, or build relationships, your layout may push members away instead of attracting them.
Making the Space Too Monotonous
People want to feel inspired, not bored. A successful coworking layout includes a mix of zones, workspace types, and interior styles. Breakout areas, phone booths, private meeting rooms, and visual focal points help create variety and appeal to different demographics.
Putting Comfort Last
If desks are uncomfortable, chairs are rigid, and lighting is harsh, members will not stay long. Your competition is often the comfort of someone’s home. Supporting physical comfort is essential to creating a space people want to travel to and spend time in.
How to Get Your Coworking Layout Right
Research is the starting point. Ask what people truly want from a workspace.
Consider the businesses in your area and what would attract them. Review your current space and identify which areas are most used. Gather feedback and use it to guide your redesign.
Your layout must also be fit for purpose. Provide services and features that integrate with your members’ needs, such as 24-7 access, easy printing, bookable rooms, natural lighting, and comfortable seating.
Comfort and efficiency lead to happy, productive members.
Sustainability should also play a role in your layout decisions. Energy-efficient lighting, responsible waste management, and thoughtful material choices can reduce costs while making your space more attractive to environmentally conscious members.
Flexible working is here to stay. Designing a coworking space that aligns with your audience’s needs is an ongoing process. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but focusing on variety, comfort, functionality, and sustainability will help create a workspace people enjoy using every day.
Key Takeaway
The best coworking layout balances collaboration, focus, comfort, and sustainability. By avoiding overcrowding, incorporating communal areas, offering varied work zones, and prioritizing member needs, you can create a flexible workspace that drives productivity and long-term loyalty.
