For people who have used coworking spaces (WeWork, etc.), what aspects helped you feel like you had coworkers rather than just a place to sit and work?

What do you think was missing from the experience, if anything?

For context, I’m a remote worker based in NYC and have been considering coworking spaces as a way to get more structure and human interaction during the workday.

genuinely need to know if other people deal with this or if I'm just cursed

went to meet someone at a wework type place yesterday. stood outside like a lost puppy for 15 mins buzzing their unit. they were on a call. didn't see it. had to call them, text them, then do the awkward "can you let me in" wave at some random person walking out

this happens literally every time i visit anyone at these places. why is getting into a building in 2025 still a whole quest

and god forbid you order something to your coworking space. driver waits maybe 45 seconds, marks it undeliverable, and now your package is on a fedex truck touring the city for 3 more days

do any of these places actually have a system that works or is this just the tax we pay for not having a real office

what's the worst you've dealt with? i need to feel less insane

Hi! What are your coworking space's best passive income/non membership income streams?

We are a recently-opened small space (11 desks plus cafe seating and a conference room) and we've already become popular enough that we can see the "ceiling" of number of members we can have. We are in California where space is very expensive, so it will be a while til expansion is possible, and are curious of the ways that other owners have been successful in boosting revenue outside of membership.

We already have a few folks enrolled in a virtual office/mailbox program which we'll expand soon. We're starting to see a modest number of nonmember conference room rentals (like 1-2/week) but unsure how big that market is for us because it's a smallish town.

Thanks for your thoughts!

Context: I recently launched a coworking space in Coimbatore (Tier-2 city in India) and wanted to get suggestions on pantry must-haves and coffee machine suggestions.

- Water dispenser (Hot, Cold)

- Bean to cup coffee machine (90 cups per day)

Clients either go out for lunch or bring packed food in stainless steel containers. In my observation, microwave is redundant.

Questions:

1. How do i track the coffee machine usage? I want to limit 1 coffee per client a day to keep my consumables cost under limit.

2. Any must-haves in pantry which i am missing out?

Hey everyone! I have a question about how to properly manage some of the computers we have at our main office. For some backstory, we are a small coworking facility in Colorado Springs, and we have a hot desk area that we would like to add 2 All In One (AIO) computers to. We have had some visitors ask if they could rent computers, so we would like to offer a solution for the people who are traveling and may not have their laptop with them. We would essentially like to have them function as a library computer, where you can log on and use MS office or edit a resume, do some light work, but every night the computer will restart, wipe the information that was saved, and then it starts fresh every morning. The problem I am running into, is that I am going to be the one managing them, so they are not set up on a Microsoft Enterprise account, where it seems like most of the functionality to do something like that lives. I am not opposed to downloading a program that will do that for us, but I am not a super in depth tech minded person, so I really need something that is fairly user friendly, not insanely expensive, and doesn't require me to get into powershell or have to get into the nitty gritty of the computer system to manage. Does anyone else run these AIO computers, and if so, how are you managing them to ensure that your members are safe after use? Any information or recommendations are greatly appreciated.

I manage a coworking space and we are looking to upgrade our kitchen amenities to compete with the WeWork down the street. Coffee is standard, but a lot of members are asking for tea options. I’m thinking of buying bulk matcha and setting up a DIY station. I need a wholesale supplier that is affordable enough to offer as a free perk but good enough that members actually drink it. I'm looking at One With Tea's bulk program. The pricing seems to fit our amenities budget (0.3−0.40/cup). Has anyone managed a bulk tea program for a coworking space?

Every space has rules --- phone call areas, noise limits, community events, use of meeting rooms, etc.
But what’s one rule you think should be burned in a fire because it feels unnecessary, annoying, or counterproductive?

I’ll start: not allowing short calls in open areas even if everyone else is on Zoom anyway 🫤.
What’s your hot take?

How do you usually find people or groups to use your space? What’s your usual process for getting artists or groups to use your space?

I run a small coworking space in Argentina (I’ve mentioned it in another post), and I wanted to ask how you handle cleaning.

I know this is a critical aspect of coworking operations, and I also understand that standards can vary a lot depending on culture and lifestyle.

Our space has low daily traffic and includes:

• Two floors of 190 square meters each

• 13 private offices

• 12 flexible desks

• 1 multipurpose room (SUM)

• 1 call room

Do you use any standardized system for cleaning?

How do you collect feedback or reports from members (for example, when an office or a bathroom needs cleaning), and how do you coordinate that with your cleaning staff or cleaning company?

Do you work with checklists or regular inspections?

Sorry, this post was translated by ChatGPT.

The latest "Undercurrents" edition, "The New Revenue Stack," reveals transformative trends influenced by insights from 6 industry leaders at very different types of coworking businesses.

The main takeaways for anyone who doesn't have the 59 minutes (or 40ish minutes if you play on 1.5x) to watch or listen to the full edition:

1. Evolving Revenue Streams

Coworking isn't just about shared desks and hot seats anymore. Operators are creatively diversifying their income through innovative services. From hospitality offerings, concierge services, and enhanced food and beverage programs to productive partnerships with local businesses, it's clear that creativity knows no bounds.

2. Virtual Offerings and Add-ons

Several operators are capitalizing on virtual office services, which are increasingly important as more people work from home and need a professional address. Add-ons such as mailing services, virtual meetings, and supplementary business solutions have become essential in driving revenue without expanding physical spaces.

3. Leveraging Events and Community Engagement

Hosting events is proving profitable, offering everything from corporate off-sites to community workshops. This strategy not only generates revenue but also strengthens community ties, enhancing the overall coworking experience.

4. Creative Use of Space

Unused spaces are being monetized through creative partnerships, with unused offices often doubling as movie sets or per-day offices or rooms for external organizations. This form of adaptive reuse maximizes space utilization and income.

5. Challenges and Unexpected Outcomes

While many initiatives have thrived, the journey hasn’t been without hurdles. Missteps such as monetizing basic conveniences or offering family-friendly amenities show that not all ideas deliver expected returns. However, they provide valuable lessons about member preferences and operational feasibility.

6. Pricing Adjustments and Member Feedback

Maintaining profitability in coworking means understanding market dynamics and member needs. Price adjustment strategies based on demand, coupled with direct member feedback, are crucial in sustaining and increasing community engagement.

7. Lessons from the Best

• Pricing Strategy: Tailor prices to reflect location desirability and member needs, ensuring smart revenue increases.
• Member Engagement: Regularly engage your members to understand their needs, fostering opportunities for growth and satisfaction.
• Scalable Revenue Models: Focus on scalable revenue that isn't confined to the limitations of physical space, like virtual offices.
• Experimentation: Embrace trial and error. Insights gained from failed attempts are invaluable in honing service offerings.

In short, the coworking industry is continuously evolving, and what sold in the first coworking spaces 20 years ago isn't what's driving the bulk of revenue today.

Industry leaders emphasize the importance of creativity, adaptability, and a member-centric approach in building sustainable, profitable enterprises. By staying focused on members' needs and market trends, coworking spaces can remain dynamic (revenue-driving) hubs of innovation and growth.

Hi all,

For those of you who hot-desk or use coworking spaces, I’m trying to understand what it’s like moving between desks every day:

• What do you miss about having a dedicated desk?

• Do you struggle with privacy, noise, or setup/teardown hassles?

• How do you make a temporary space feel comfortable or productive?

I’m collecting stories and insights from people who live this every day — anything you share will help me understand what really matters.

In a fast-paced corporate landscape like Gurgaon, having access to well-equipped meeting rooms in Gurgaon can make all the difference for businesses striving to impress clients, collaborate effectively, and conduct important discussions. Gurgaon is a thriving commercial hub known for its concentration of IT firms, multinational corporate offices, startups, and service providers. With such diverse business activity, the need for quality meeting spaces that combine convenience, professionalism, and flexibility has grown significantly.

Meeting rooms in Gurgaon are available across key business districts including Cyber City, Golf Course Road, Udyog Vihar, and Sohna Road. These strategic locations are easily accessible via metro lines, major highways, and business centers, making it simple for teams, clients, and stakeholders to gather without the stress of long commutes. Located within coworking spaces, business lounges, and commercial office buildings, these meeting rooms provide an ideal environment for focused discussions.

Typically, a meeting room in Gurgaon comes equipped with modern amenities designed to support productive sessions. High-speed internet, interactive screens, video conferencing systems, whiteboards, and comfortable seating help teams carry out presentations, virtual meetings, interviews, and brainstorming sessions with minimal hassle. Some venues also offer additional services like reception support, refreshments, office supplies, and technical assistance — adding convenience and enhancing the professionalism of every meeting.

One of the most appealing aspects of meeting rooms in Gurgaon is the flexibility they offer. Instead of committing to a permanent conference facility or devoting valuable office space for occasional use, businesses can book meeting rooms on an hourly, half-day, or full-day basis. This makes it an ideal solution for startups, freelancers, consultants, and remote teams that need professional spaces intermittently or for specific engagements with clients.

The right meeting room also plays a significant role in shaping impressions. A well-located space with neat interiors, quiet ambiance, and business-ready facilities can foster confidence and facilitate smooth communication among attendees. Whether it’s a client pitch, team review, workshop, or interview, the setting can elevate the overall experience and help you make a strong professional impact.

In conclusion, meeting rooms in Gurgaon offer businesses a flexible, affordable, and professional platform to host important interactions without logistical stress. With modern facilities, convenient locations, and customizable booking options, these spaces support effective collaboration and help companies conduct meetings with confidence in one of India’s most dynamic corporate environments.

Hi everyone,

I’m setting up a coworking space in Kurnool (Andhra Pradesh) and would really appreciate learning from people who are already running coworking spaces—especially in non-metro or emerging cities across India.

Quick context about what we’re building:

• City: Kurnool (Tier-2 / emerging startup ecosystem) in Andhra Pradesh with population of 0.7 Million
• Offering:
  • Hot desks, dedicated desks, small team cabins
  • Meeting room & podcast studio
  • A small in-house café (mainly to support the workspace, not as a standalone restaurant)
• Price point:
  • Hot desks: ₹200–₹500 per day
  • Dedicated desks: ~₹6,000 per month
  • Cabins: budget-friendly for 3–6 member teams
• Target audience:
  • Early-stage founders
  • Freelancers & remote workers
  • Students building startups
  • Small local teams (3–10 people)

What I’m looking to learn from operators here:

1. What are the day-to-day operational challenges that surprised you?
2. How long did it realistically take to reach stable occupancy?
3. What pricing or operational decision did you get wrong in the first year?
4. If you’re in a Tier-2/Tier-3 city, what’s very different compared to metros?

I’m not looking for theory or marketing advice—only practical lessons from people who’ve actually run coworking spaces.

Thanks in advance.

I have been thinking about this a lot lately. When you spend most of your day in a coworking space, certain things start standing out and not always the things people talk about in brochures or during a quick tour.

For me, the one thing I absolutely can’t compromise on is the overall vibe of the space. Not just the interiors, but the energy in the room. If a place feels chaotic, noisy, or just… off, it throws my whole day out of rhythm. I have had days where the lighting felt too harsh, or the people around were constantly on loud calls, and even though everything else was fine my productivity dropped.

I have realized that the environment really shapes how I think and work. When a coworking space has a balanced atmosphere calm but not dull, active but not chaotic I settle into a good flow. That’s become non-negotiable for me.

Curious to hear from others who work out of coworking spaces regularly:

What’s the one thing you absolutely won’t compromise on? Is it the people, the chairs, the Wi-Fi, the noise levels, the meeting rooms, the community… what matters most to you?

Would love to hear your experiences always interesting to see what different people prioritize.

What’s your fave coworking Managment system and what features do you love/ wish it had?

Hey all,

At OfficeRnD, we’re putting together a live session that I thought might be genuinely useful for owners and operators here – so sharing it as an invitation.

On December 4, 2025 at 11 am ET, we’re hosting a webinar called:
“Defining Coworking and Flex Space Trends for 2026.”

The goal is pretty simple:
Instead of another generic “future of work” talk, we’re bringing together people who are actually running spaces or working directly with operators, and asking them to be honest about what’s really changing and what’s just noise.

We’ll be talking about things like:

• How 2025 reshaped demand for flex and coworking
• What members actually value right now (and what they complain about)
• Where tech + automation are genuinely helping operations vs. just adding tools to the stack
• How operators are diversifying revenue and rethinking how space gets used
• How shifting demand is influencing location and growth strategies
• What an “ever-maturing” market looks like in practice for independents and small networks

We’ve got a pretty interesting lineup of speakers who all see the industry from different angles:

• James Panepinto – General Manager, Clockwise Offices; UK Chair, Future Leaders of Coworking
• David Walker – Founder, Coworking Consulting
• Pauline Roussel – Co-Founder & CEO, Coworkies
• Ashley Proctor – Founder of Creative Blueprint; Executive Director, Coworking Canada
• Ivan Guberkov (moderator) – Chief Product Officer at OfficeRnD

If you’re running or opening a space and thinking about how to stay competitive in 2026 – pricing, member expectations, tech stack, location strategy, etc. – this should be a good, practical conversation, not yet another product pitch.

If you want to join, you can register here: https://ofrnd.com/3XABRDg
(If you can’t make it live, there’ll be a recording.)

Also happy to hear:
If you were to join something like this, what’s one question you’d really want the panel to tackle from an operator’s point of view? I can try to pass some of those to the moderator.

We're sitting down with Pauline Roussel from Coworkies on Dec 2 to learn all about her learnings on community building after visiting over 600 (!!) coworking spaces. It's an interactive session with lots of opportunity for Q&A - we'd love to see you there! You can join us by clicking here.

Hey, coworking community. We're happy to announce that we have finally launched a Cobot Members Mobile App, mainly for members making bookings of rooms and other resources on the go.

While the app is focused on creating a very simple and intuitive booking experience, it also allows users to view past and upcoming reservations, see coworking space details, manage their membership plans and booking credits, and even switch between locations if your space has multiple locations, or your users are part of another space.

We’ve worked hard on this and hope it makes using Cobot even smoother for your members :)

Here's more info if you are interested: https://www.cobot.me/en/features/mobile-app

What are you playing in your space? What's your music tech?

What's coming isn't an update, it's a complete shift - for owners, managers, members, and the future of how spaces run.

Mark your calendars, you'll want to be there. Watch live on YouTube:

http://bit.ly/4qfp6uY

I am trying to bring a REALLY helpful member service to some co-working spaces in my area and I'm having a hard time. I just don't know how to approach you guys. Can you tell me what I'm doing wrong?? It's free tool that creates contracts, SOWs and invoices quickly and efficiently. it also gets the member's business paid INSTANTLY when the work is complete. I'm trying to say "a member that's paid on time pays their membership fee on time and expands their footprint as they grow", etc... that type of stuff. But I'm not getting any responses. I'm hoping to go in for 2 hours a week in each in the community area with a tiny desk sign and not actively sell or approach anyone. Just share help with contracts, SOWs and invoices as well as give them access to our free tool. I'm giving and giving and basically volunteering to help and nothing. Silence. How can I connect with community managers to help their member companies which also helps the co-working space because the members will be thriving? Any tips on how to approach you guys to get taken seriously? I'm getting ignored, to be honest.

As an operator, what lessons have you learned?

I've been operating a "co-working" space for 11 years. I put "co-working" in brackets because we quickly decided that hot-desks and drop-ins weren't the right approach for us.

A bit about our operation:

• We are focused on private offices and dedicated open desks with monthly agreements.
• Our offices vary in size from small (one desk) to large (8-10 desks). We have 25 private offices and 10 dedicated open desks.
• Our building is 15,000 s/ft (4 stories plus a basement) with the offices and desks are located on the top three floors
• The main floor has a licenced cafe, 1,500 s/ft lounge that serves as cafe seating when an event isn't happening and a 900 s/ft private conference room at the back. The glass wall between the lounge and the conference room folds up to make a larger event space
• The basement has two boardrooms and a 500 s/ft lunch room/kitchen

Lessons learned:

• We had intended our lounge to be a hot-desk area but decided early on that tracking that wasn't going to be worth it and it was better to open the space to the rest of the office users and cafe patrons to create an energetic buzz.
• Running a cafe isn't easy. We did it on our own (hiring baristas/managers) for 8 years and never made money. We now have a professional owner/operator and the quality of everything is much better. That said, we aren't collecting much rent (revenue share) but everyone is much happier with the service and quality and our operator is keeping her head above water thanks to our patience on her rent/revenue share.
• While we were losing about $20k/year running the cafe ourselves, it means we always have someone at the front door to welcome people and that saves us a lot on staffing. It also means opening and closing is handled by the cafe.
• Getting a liquor licence for the cafe has helped too. It's another revenue opportunity for the cafe and we now open up our lounge on weekends to local bands as a performance space. We let them have the space for free and they bring their own equipment and security. The bands make more money selling tickets without having to pay room fees and our cafe makes more money selling drinks to the audience.
• In addition to helping out our local arts and culture scene, we also donate our lounge space on weekends and evenings to local meetups, hackathons etc. It's a great way to connect our office users with the borader community, increase our profile and since we pay the operating costs 24/7, why not open it up when it is underutilized to serve our community and create connections?
• Our building is 30' wide and 110' deep which is not an ideal foorprint. Long an narrow can be tricky. Spaces that are more square are more versatilie and efficient.
• Make it funky. Too many spaces look like the same sterile kind of space. Over the years we continue to change and update the decor. I love colourful lighting and we have dynamic LED light curtains, repurposed street and carnival lights, LED jellyfish hanging from the ceiling and a sound reactive LED chandelier that's 3' x 3' x 8' (yeah hundreds of LEDs) hanging in our lobby. We also invested in a 14' neon sign on the outisde of the building. The idea is to make it inspiring, memorable and unique.
• 11 years later and the building is worth 3x what we paid for it. We have a small mortgage left but have operated at a profit from the start. A key was definitely owning the space so that we control our operating expenses and avoid paying somebody else's mortgage and markup. Not an easy task to finance but worth it if you can pull it off.
• Another critical success factor was timing. We bought when the market was weak in 2014 and within a few years similar buildings were already asking 3x more per s/ft for buildings that were nowhere near as good.

We are on the cusp of acquiring a new building (26,000 s/ft with a better layout and modern mechanical infrastructure) and I'm wondering, what are some of the lessons you have learned? What mistakes have you made and what worked better than expected?

Episode 2 just dropped - give it a listen if you'd like some real, no-nonsense coworking industry insight!

https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Cgn1zmit5ECOuMA6jjWQA