Finding the perfect workspace: Tips for choosing a coworking space in London as a creative
With 1 in 6 of jobs in London being in the creative economy — totalling over 800,000 workers — it’s no surprise that many of the city’s offices and coworking spaces are filled by freelancers and businesses in the creative sectors.
It’s surprising, then, that there are few coworking spaces that cater specifically to cultural and creative people and businesses in the city. Finding the right coworking space can be tricky, but the benefits can be palpable, from just having a space to work away from home, all the way to connecting and networking with others in the space and building your next creative idea.
Here’s a few tips on what you should look for in your next coworking space as a creative in London.
Types of coworking members
When you’re looking at options for your next coworking space, try to see if they show what types of members are already in the space. Do they cater to a specific industry or sector? What are the reviews like from their current members? Can you see the types of members they accept?
The community in the space can make all the difference. Whether it’s the coworking space managers knowing what you do, what problems you might be facing in your business, and what you need from a workspace; or to the new connections you make in and around your industry; coworking spaces can help grow a wealth of new ideas.
Run by arts charity ASC with over 30 years experience managing artist workspaces, The Handbag Factory understands the needs of creatives in London and is proud to build connections between artists, designers, architects, consultants and other creative fields in the city.
2. The ‘vibe’ and workspace environment
Understanding what it’s like to actually work in the coworking space is a little tricky off the bat. That’s why we offer a free day trial for every membership enquiry at The Handbag Factory, to see if our space would suit you.
If you’re not able to do a trial day at your preferred coworking space, ask if you can could for a short viewing or even take a meeting in the workspace. Is it vibrant and buzzy, filled with lots of people at hotdesks networking and chatting? Or is it quieter and calm, with longer-term members and a few meeting areas dotted around? Both have their positive aspects, and it’s all about finding the place that suits you and your working style the best.
3. Space, facilities, and amenities
While it can be nice to have a lot of add-ons, the main thing is to think about what you really need in the coworking space.
Consider the space itself — is there enough room to do your work effectively? Would you rather have a dedicated desk, where you can leave your things overnight, or a hotdesk, offering some more flexibility?
Take a look at the facilities offered. Does it have enough meeting spaces, or storage? Would there be access to teas, coffees and a stocked kitchen? But also, consider if it’s a larger coworking space - which might have all its amenities set in stone - or a smaller or independent space, which might be more open to suggestions from its members.
4. Budget, affordability, and flexibility
Cost is an important aspect when choosing your workspace. You’ll need to set aside a budget for your coworking space, and understand how this might tie into your monthly business expenses.
Think of what the benefits, or ROI, would be with your coworking space. Would you prefer somewhere a little fancier to impress clients in meetings, and you’d be happy to spend a bit more — or are you comfortable with a bare-bones but more affordable option?
In terms of flexibility, you might be looking for a 9-5 workspace, or somewhere that allows some more freedom. Many creatives have unique schedules and needs. Look for a space that suits your creative process and accommodates your flow. Members at The Handbag Factory can access our venue into the evenings and weekends, and we offer both dedicated and hotdesking options to ensure everyone gets what they need from the space.
5. Location and transportation
If you’re someone who likes to roll out of bed straight into your workspace, then prioritising local workspaces might be beneficial. But there are others factors when it comes to locale.
If you like to get out and about and explore new neighbourhood, find an area that is somewhere you’d like to get to know a little better. Maybe it has interesting creative venues in the area, or is close to your clients? Can all of your team reach the area easily?
If your home is on the outskirts of the city, it might be beneficial to travel closer to the centre on a regular basis. Figure out if the transport works for you, and factor that into your costs, too.
6. Community and events
Take a look at the events that go on in the space. Would you attend regularly? Are they a nice-to-have, which you might drop into every now and then? Outside of events, think about the community in the space, and if it fosters a collaborative environment. Who knows — in the right community, you might end up wanting to lead on your own events, or forge your own network.
Choosing the right coworking space is a significant decision in your creative journey. We hope that these tips help even a small amount in that process. We think that The Handbag Factory is a great option for London’s creatives who are looking for a flexible workspace. Learn more about our desk memberships, or get in touch to book a trial day and see for yourself.
