What is a co-working space? Many are getting started with remote work these days and you may hear about, or be offered by your employer, to work in a co-working space. So, what exactly are co-working spaces?

Co-working spaces are shared workplaces that offer tables or desks with seating, along with electricity, internet, printers, and coffee. They have been used mostly by freelancers that want to work away from home and for longer periods than coffee shops allow, and by small businesses that need a workplace for employees without the commitment of an office lease. Remote work is making co-working spaces increasingly popular with enterprises to offer employees an office environment in locations with too few employees to justify a full company office.

Co-working spaces often offer plans with flexible seating for temporary or budget-conscious visitors, or with fixed seating for regulars who want to leave office equipment such as monitors, desktop computers, or laptop stands overnight. Many co-working spaces are combined office hotels that allow businesses to rent dedicated private office rooms where groups from the same company can sit together. Most co-working spaces have conference rooms that can be booked for meetings or calls.

The culture of different co-working spaces vary widely with some being very professional and others more oriented towards social activities or even collective living or activism. Owners of co-working spaces or regular patrons often arrange social or educational activities.