Welcome to the next exciting chapter of coworking in 2024! Let's explore the cool trends reshaping the shared space industry. Oh, and quick heads up – remember that WeWork thing in 2023? Well, it happened, but no worries, it's just a unique story, not the norm for coworking worldwide.
Now, onto the good stuff! Did you know that according to Deskmag research, 52% of coworking spaces are making a profit, and 27% cover their costs? We dug deeper, chatting with 150+ awesome folks – operators, real estate whizzes, and influencers – from nearly 20 countries. Get ready for a ride as we share the inside scoop from these experts shaping the future of coworking!
Trends Shaping the Coworking Space Industry in 2024
Embarking on the exciting journey of coworking trends in 2024, we find that flexible spaces are not just four walls and desks—they're dynamic communities, embracing innovation, sustainability, and a dash of futuristic charm.
As we sift through forecasts from industry experts, it becomes clear that coworking is a diverse landscape, shaped by regional nuances and market maturity. Yet, amidst this diversity, we've distilled the essence of 10 key trends that promise to redefine the coworking experience. Some may not be groundbreaking, but hey, knowledge is power, and knowing the ropes of the coworking game in 2024? Well, that's just plain cool. So, let's dive into the vibrant world of coworking, where the future is as diverse as the communities it nurtures.
1. Community Connection
Coworking spaces are becoming more than just work hubs—they're vibrant communities. Initiatives like music, dance, and choirs are bringing members together, fostering collaboration and making the workplace an enjoyable team experience.
2. Rural Retreats and Unique Themes
Coworking is venturing beyond city limits, embracing unique themes like climate labs and health labs. The countryside is now a frontier for coworking experiences, offering a fresh take on workspaces and aligning with the trend of breaking traditional boundaries.
3. Boutique vs. Corporate Vibes
In 2024, coworking is experiencing a split between larger, corporate-focused spaces and smaller, boutique setups. Larger spaces cater to corporate needs, while boutique coworking prioritizes community, offering personalized experiences for freelancers and remote workers.
4. Hybrid Workspaces and Redefined Offices
Post-pandemic, offices are transforming. Hybrid models are on the rise, reshaping architecture with flexible areas and increased demand for external meeting spaces. It's not just about desks; it's about redefining the entire workspace experience.
5. Niche Experiences
Imagine coworking spaces tailored to specific professions—doctors, lawyers, or dentists. That's the new trend. The industry is shifting towards niche experiences, providing specialized environments that enhance member satisfaction and collaboration.
6. Eco-Friendly Coworking
Sustainability is the buzzword. Coworking spaces are going green, focusing on eco-friendly practices and emphasizing well-being. The shift is towards creating work environments that are not only productive but also leave a positive impact on the community.
7. Co-Living and Coworking Fusion (Flex Living)
Picture a lifestyle that seamlessly blends work and living in rural areas. That's Flex Living. Coworking spaces are evolving to offer integrated co-living experiences, turning remote work into a fulfilling lifestyle with a focus on community, sustainability, and well-being.
8. Franchise Frenzy and Maturation
Franchises are booming, mirroring success in the US. The coworking industry is maturing; landlords are getting involved, and the focus is on fair opportunities. It's a dynamic growth phase with both risks and rewards.
9. Live-Work Environments
Coworking is not just about work—it's about living too. Spaces are transforming into live-work environments, prioritizing occupier well-being with gyms, outdoor spaces, and dynamic pricing models for a holistic experience.
10. Tech-Driven Coworking
Technology is the silent trendsetter. Automation and AI are streamlining coworking operations, creating seamless user experiences. The integration of smart tech is shaping the coworking landscape, offering a glimpse into the future of work.
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Around the World in Coworking Trends: Experts Unveil 2024 Insights
Our 2024 edition is packed with insights straight from the gurus themselves. Think Ashley Proctor, the powerhouse behind Coworking Canada; the visionary Carsten Foertsch from Deskmag; the trendsetter Pauline Roussel of Coworkies fame; and many more, including the brilliant minds of Melanie Burnier (Coworking Switzerland), Manuel Zea (Coworking Spain), James Rankin (The Instant Group), Emma Swinnerton (Cushman & Wakefield), and the dynamic Liz Elam of GCUC.
Fasten your seatbelts as we uncover the latest coworking trends, guided by the wisdom of these industry trailblazers. It's a global rendezvous you won't want to miss!
1. Austria 🇦🇹
In 2024, my focus remains on building a vibrant community within my coworking space, fostering strong connections through initiatives like bands, dance companies, and choruses. While some may aim for business expansion, my enduring wish is to strengthen the bonds among members, creating a collaborative and enjoyable team. Observing industry trends, I see a notable movement in Austria toward co-living and coworking collaborations, especially in rural areas. Spaces are emerging with unique themes like climate labs, health labs, and food labs, embracing the concept of coworking retreats. The countryside beckons as a new frontier for coworking experiences, aligning with a growing trend that transcends traditional workspace boundaries.Mike PoellRochuspark, Vienna
2. Belgium 🇧🇪
Coworking trends tend to vary by country, influenced by market maturity. In conservative markets like Belgium, the focus will be on educating members about coworking benefits, with a shift toward maturation as people recognize the advantages of flexible spaces. The cultural shift from owning real estate to investing in business will likely gain traction. Established players are set to dominate the market, making entry challenging for newcomers. The industry's future lies in customer experience, community-building, and the 'war on talent,' where coworking spaces offer a competitive edge in attracting skilled professionals. It's not just about square meters and pricing; it's a battle for quality, with a focus on generosity and creating spaces that inspire smiles—a trend shaping the coworking landscape in 2024.Olivier KegelsHumgy Cowork Space, Antwerp
3. Bulgaria 🇧🇬
In 2024, coworking continues to expand into the mainstream, with a notable trend of rural locations beyond city centers.Matthias ZeitlerCoworking Bansko, Bansko
4. Canada 🇨🇦
As a devoted advocate of coworking, travel, and communal work for nearly two decades, I've witnessed a lifestyle choice that's now within reach for many, thanks to the evolution of coworking communities, advanced technology, supportive infrastructures, and global networks. Workers are seizing the opportunity to design their lives for better balance, demanding flexibility and agency from employers, and shaping work environments that truly serve their needs. We're fostering meaningful connections, breaking down traditional silos, and actively challenging outdated systems of 'work'. In 2024, the mainstream is poised to embrace this transformative shift, recognizing the value of coworking in empowering individuals and reshaping the way we approach our professional lives.Ashley Proctor
5. Germany 🇩🇪
In 2024, the coworking industry is poised for steady growth, particularly in rural spaces, as people seek opportunities to reconnect with their teams outside the city. While the pace may not match the rapid expansion of 2022, the demand for flexible workstations and spaces beyond urban centers remains strong. In cities, uncertainties linger due to various crises and market unpredictability. However, intriguing trends, like housing developers incorporating coworking into their concepts, emerge, introducing new dynamics to the landscape. Overall, the flexible work industry appears resilient, showing no signs of decline and maintaining an upward trajectory.Julianne BeckerCoconat, Berlin
In 2024, the post-pandemic landscape sees a surge in the hybrid working model, transforming office architectures with a shift toward flexible desk areas and reduced office space. Corporates adapt to the changing dynamics, leading to a rising demand for external meeting and workshop rooms. The hybrid model emerges as a defining factor influencing office structures and the coworking market. Additionally, the acceptance of the home office model by SMEs brings new clients into the coworking space, with a notable focus on freelancers, solopreneurs, and small companies. The trend also emphasizes the need for workshop rooms, where companies gather periodically for in-person meetings and team events, creating a dynamic and evolving coworking landscape.Ferhat EngelEngelnest, Berlin
In the coming year, coworking spaces can achieve long-term success by focusing on two key principles. 1. Campfire atmosphere: to attract members, coworking spaces should prioritize creating a social and enjoyable atmosphere. With the rise of remote work, spaces may face underutilization on low-traffic days like Mondays and Fridays. To counter this, spaces can draw inspiration from successful models, particularly targeting freelancers, who remain a significant group in coworking spaces. 2. Economic influence: the economic situation of a country impacts coworking space success. In democratic systems, the economy tends to be more prosperous in the long run. As elections approach, members are reminded of their role in shaping the future by voting for candidates supporting fair political and economic competition. (The quote is a condensed summary of the author's thoughts.)Carsten FoertschDeskmag, Berlin
As the global coworking landscape diversifies, 2024 marks the rise of niche coworking brands tailored to specific professions like doctors, lawyers, and dentists. Simultaneously, the industry undergoes a paradigm shift, placing a heightened emphasis on enhancing member experiences to foster retention and attract new collaborators. Amid this evolution, sustainability takes center stage, with coworking operators adopting a stronger stance on eco-friendly practices, positioning 2024 as a pivotal year for recognition and broader sustainability initiatives within the coworking sphere.Pauline RousselCoworkies, Berlin
6. Ireland 🇮🇪
In 2024, small coworking spaces are likely to continue grappling with sustainability, confronting the impact of the pandemic and the encroachment of large businesses. The genuine essence of coworking, rooted in values of openness, accessibility, collaboration, and community, risks being overshadowed by commodification, urging smaller operators to navigate a delicate balance between fair pricing and sustaining their unique identity in a changing coworking environment.Mike HanniganCoworkinn, Dublin
In 2024, larger employers will view coworking spaces as the 'third space,' a crucial factor for talent attraction and retention. Recognizing the limitations of location, businesses will embrace flexibility to overcome housing challenges and attract top talent. Despite overcoming the challenges posed by COVID-19, global technology leaders still struggle with defining the future of work. Conferences like the one in Porto aim to consolidate diverse perspectives and formulate a coherent vision for the evolving work landscape.Stephen CarolanConnected Hubs, Ireland
7. Israel 🇮🇱
In 2024, the demand surge for flexible and serviced office spaces persists, with companies prioritizing the employee experience within coworking environments. The shift from traditional leases continues, and businesses increasingly expect comprehensive services, including wellness offerings like yoga and Pilates sessions, as well as enriching content sessions. The trajectory points towards an accelerated integration of experiential elements into the coworking landscape.Nir KelnerThe Brain Embassy, Israel
8. Italy 🇮🇹
In 2024, Italy anticipates a 21.3% increase in coworking, with a notable 38% surge in professionals and companies choosing coworking spaces. Despite a recent decline in desk and private office requests in Genoa and other cities, a shift towards day offices and legal domiciliation is evident. The trend aligns with the growing demand for hybrid solutions, reflecting flexibility in adapting to home working and economic challenges. For the upcoming year, the most valued service is expected to be a mix of domiciliation, day offices, and meeting rooms, emphasizing the importance of competence and professionalism in independent centers like mine.Erika Visconi
9. Japan 🇯🇵
In 2024, Japan's coworking landscape is poised for robust growth, with a focus on incubation roles and a surge in large-scale facilities, notably exemplified by the anticipated opening of 'STATION Ai' in Nagoya. The nation embraces community-driven support for startups, backed by government initiatives emphasizing the importance of fostering coworking space communities. As Japan gears towards sizable incubation spaces exceeding 2,000 square meters, the coworking industry is expected to thrive, propelled by strategic clustering, international collaborations, and a realization of the pivotal role community plays in workspace success.Yuta Aoki
In 2024, anticipate a rise in digital nomads choosing Japan as a destination for remote work, despite language barriers. Japanese coworking spaces need to adapt to this international trend, focusing on workstation needs and overcoming language challenges. Major players, including WeWork, may shift towards a hospitality-oriented model in response to evolving industry dynamics. Additionally, expect a revival of coworking spaces in rural Japan post-COVID, contributing to the positive trend of maturation in these areas.Yoshio TsudaMori-no Office, Japan
10. Latvia 🇱🇻
In 2024, the newly developed A-class buildings are increasingly becoming dedicated coworking spaces. Notably, state and federal governments are also stepping into the scene, planning coworking spaces for their employees in various regions. Expect three new coworking spaces to emerge in different cities within the next two to three years, signaling a continued expansion and integration of coworking into prime urban locations.Girts ZalitisVAS "Valsts nekustamie īpašumi", Latvia
11. Netherlands 🇳🇱
In 2024, we anticipate a surge in coworking chains as the market evolves and embraces change, leading to increased mergers and acquisitions. The maturation of the market, highlighted by the WeWork rise and fall, is poised to impact various sectors, though the Netherlands remains relatively unaffected. The underestimated role of AI in the coworking sector is a key focus, with brands leveraging AI poised to outpace competitors. The future of coworking lies in digitalization and a strong emphasis on hospitality, where customer care is paramount. The days of uninspiring office spaces are numbered; thriving coworking brands will excel in providing a hospitable environment, surpassing outdated models, and embracing the trends of 2024.Thom WernkeStartDock, Amsterdam
In 2024, a notable trend is the increasing adoption of flexible workspace by larger businesses, comprising 34% of global take-up compared to 22% in 2022 and 13% in 2020. Larger companies and scale-ups now represent 54% of global flexible office members. The surge in demand for phone booths and internal meeting rooms highlights the growing need for privacy in response to hybrid working and video calls. Additionally, the Flexmark report reveals a 50:50 split among operators regarding Net Zero strategies, with 15% already achieving their targets, while others plan to reach them within the next five to 20 years.Ed BouterseSavills, Amsterdam
In the evolving landscape of coworking, 2024 heralds the ascendancy of residential areas as high-potential zones for coworking growth, where the symbiosis of co-living and coworking flourishes. Beyond physical spaces, this trend embodies a lifestyle offering affordability, networking opportunities, and community building. The integration of co-living and coworking not only provides essential amenities but transforms the 'working from home' concept into a productive and enjoyable experience, enhancing overall living and working satisfaction. This nuanced trend, known as Flex Living, exemplifies the convergence of sleep, amenities, services, and community, reflecting a global shift towards integrated coworking and co-living experiences.Tom HeckmansThe Villy, Amsterdam
12. Portugal 🇵🇹
In 2024, the future of coworking unfolds with a focus on community, tech integration, sustainability, and niche offerings. Successful spaces prioritize vibrant communities and networking opportunities, leverage tech for efficient engagement, embody sustainability and wellness initiatives, and tailor services to niche industries. Initiatives like Porto i/o's Co.Po project exemplify this trend, fostering city-wide coworking growth and emphasizing social responsibility. The future is about making a local and global impact, with coworking communities transcending challenges and inspiring innovation.Rita PintoPorto i/o, Porto
In 2024, coworking undergoes a transformation, aligning more closely with the hospitality industry than traditional real estate. The focus shifts towards lifestyle offices that prioritize comfort, well-being, and a rich array of amenities. With companies adopting hybrid models and valuing talent attraction, the symbiotic partnership between coworking operators and building owners strengthens. This trend extends to unique collaborations, such as coworking spaces within shopping malls, creating win-win situations for landlords and operators, redefining coworking as a hospitality-driven business.Carlos GoncalvesAvila Spaces, Lisbon
In 2024, the rise of remote work, fueled by evolving work dynamics and lifestyle preferences, continues to drive the growth of rural coworking and co-living spaces. With the younger workforce prioritizing remote options, freelancers, and digital nomads seeking flexibility, rural areas, notably in Portugal, are becoming popular choices. Municipalities recognize the potential of rural coworking in combating depopulation, promoting social development, and attracting youth to low-density regions. Anticipate a surge in individuals opting for a countryside lifestyle, blending remote work with sustainability and a more human pace, emphasizing community, purpose, and well-being—a transformative trend echoing longevity principles found in Blue Zones.Maria do Céu BastosNowhere Desk, Arcos de Valdevez
In 2024, the coworking sector's evolution centers around four key themes: Community, Sustainability, Technological Innovation, and Premium Locations. Differentiation becomes crucial in a competitive market, prompting the creation of spaces with diverse themes to address varying member needs. Community remains paramount, fostering a sense of belonging and security through contact and meaningful events. Technological innovation continues to shape the coworking experience, from booking processes to potential future applications like Virtual Reality. Sustainability takes center stage, with a focus on eco-friendly practices and community engagement, exemplified by initiatives such as tree planting and beach clean-ups. Premium locations, particularly in city centers and thriving economic hubs, are sought after, making cities like Porto appealing to digital nomads and companies seeking a vibrant business environment.Francisca MorimVertical Coworking, Porto
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- Spain 🇪🇸
In Spain, the coworking landscape is undergoing a shift as traditional offices embrace flex spaces, leading to increased supply in cities like Barcelona. However, in cities with high demand, such as Malaga, the limited supply is driving prices upward. Another notable trend is the aggressive expansion of IWG, with frequent openings across the country, presenting a different model focused on partnerships with companies. Additionally, the anticipation for the upcoming coworking conference in May 2024 adds excitement, with expectations for it to be the best edition yet, featuring new locations and progressive developments in the industry.Manuel Zea BarralCoworking Spain, Madrid
2024 holds exciting trends for coworking. The mobility wave is real, with people seeking spaces to live and work seamlessly. Evolution in third places is evident, as remote work drives the search for more diverse and social work environments. The rise of coworking boutiques is transforming the landscape, offering premium experiences. Services like transplanter stations and on-demand hot desks are simplifying work life. Companies are reimagining office setups, favoring flexible salaries, and adopting coworking as their headquarters. Notably, small towns are becoming coworking hotspots, eliminating the need for long commutes. These trends signal a dynamic shift in how we perceive and embrace workspaces.Vanessa SansHappy Working Lab, Barcelona
In the future of coworking, I predict the emergence of two distinct audiences: one favoring corporate-oriented, flex office environments in larger spaces influenced by real estate, and the other drawn to boutique coworking spaces. The latter, privately owned and community-focused, caters to freelancers, entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and remote workers seeking meaningful connections and experiences over shiny facilities. Both offerings, serving diverse needs, are set to coexist in the evolving coworking landscape.Ben KolpThe Living Room Coworking, Málaga
In 2024, coworking space design trends pivot towards well-being and sustainability, placing a heightened focus on certifications like WELL or LEED. Expect an increased commitment to community well-being through thoughtful furniture arrangement, enhanced natural lighting, improved indoor air quality, and the incorporation of sustainable materials. The emphasis on these elements reflects a growing awareness of creating work environments that prioritize health, sustainability, and a positive impact on the community.Maria CadenaCloudworks, Barcelona
As we anticipate the next 12 months in the coworking realm, growth and adaptation of flexible options and hybrid models are on the horizon. Delving into the social and impact dimensions, the future lies in building communities that shape spaces, not the other way around. Common values and the collective DNA of both space creators and coworkers become pivotal in defining and positioning these shared environments. Beyond prediction, my heartfelt wish is for sustainability and health to intricately weave into the daily strategy of each space, influencing decisions from construction and design to energy usage, waste management, lighting, furniture, air filtration, and community activities.Beatriz Jiménez PardoTRIPLE, Madrid
14. Sweden 🇸🇪
In 2024, coworking takes center stage as a catalyst for community development and collaboration. Anticipate a surge in community-based initiatives, forging deeper relationships between individuals and contributing to the growth and vitality of cities and local areas. The trend extends beyond individual spaces, with collaborative efforts among coworking spaces forming industry alliances and new associations globally. The year ahead holds the promise of coworking not just as a workspace but as a force shaping industries, policies, and fostering meaningful community connections.Maria Svensson WiklanderGomorron, Ostersund
As we step into 2024, the coworking landscape continues to evolve, offering a delicate balance between home and office environments. The concept of the 'third place' takes center stage, with coworking spaces serving as vital hubs fostering connection, community, and a sense of belonging. Prioritizing well-being, these spaces are designed to not only enhance work efficiency but also promote relaxation, exercise, and proximity to nature, supporting mental health. The trend of Spaces for Specific Interests emerges, tailoring coworking environments to tech enthusiasts, artists, and eco-friendly professionals. Embracing Smart and Fancy Technology, coworking spaces integrate automation and artificial intelligence, streamlining operations for a seamless user experience. In this transformative journey, the coworking market expands to rural areas, recognizing diverse lifestyle choices, and adapts pricing policies akin to the travel industry's flexibility. As we embrace these changes, adaptability remains key to meeting the dynamic needs of our ever-growing and diverse community.Cecilia BerglundGreat Hub, Umeå
15. Switzerland 🇨🇭
In 2024, companies reconsider the sustainability of full-time remote work. Recognizing the impact on mental health, social connections, and overall well-being, there's a growing sentiment favoring a hybrid approach. The vision is to bring employees back to the office for a few days a week, with the remainder spent in near-home offices, emphasizing coworking spaces as a key player in this paradigm shift. The focus is on employee wellness, human connections, and improved productivity, challenging the notion that sustained remote work is the most effective model.Melanie BurnierTheWorkHub, Lausanne
16. Turkey 🇹🇷
In the trajectory of coworking trends for 2024, HAN Spaces stands as a beacon of innovation, weaving together flexible spaces, sustainable practices, and a rich cultural heritage. The emphasis on sustainability goes beyond mere rhetoric, encompassing a human-centered approach to well-being, conscious space design, and a commitment to align with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. HAN Spaces seamlessly integrates work and play, extending its footprint to scenic locations and fostering global collaborations. With a unique blend of community-building, meaningful partnerships, and a dedication to art and aesthetics, HAN Spaces sets a transformative standard, not just for workspaces, but for a holistic and inspiring work-life experience.Gizem BurtecinHAN Spaces, Istanbul
17. United Kingdom 🇬🇧
In 2024, the coworking landscape sees a diverse shift as various spaces beyond traditional workspaces vie for customer attention. The competition intensifies with shops, hotels, banks, and restaurants offering free or low-cost alternatives. This prompts coworking hubs and flexi-work providers to innovate and retain customers amid the expanding choices. The dynamic between employers and employees regarding where and how work happens becomes a pivotal point, ushering in a significant shift in the coworking industry's landscape.Claire CarpenterClaire Carpenter Coaching, Edinburgh
In 2024, anticipate significant expansion through franchise models across Europe, mirroring the success seen in the US. The coworking industry is set to mature as asset owners become more involved, seeking a fair share of the potential upsides and recognizing both opportunities and risks. The global flex workspace market, particularly in Europe, is poised for strong double-digit growth, with a focus on regional cities and a demand for new, higher-quality supply to meet the evolving market needs.James RankinThe Instant Group, Winchester
I think that 2024 will be a year of consolidation and growth for the flexible workspace industry. I think a lot of operators have now recovered from the negative effects of the pandemic, and it's starting to look forward to the future. Also seeing increased occupied demand for more flexibility which is going to support that growth.Emma SwinnertonCushman & Wakefield, London
In 2024, coworking is set to transform into live-work environments, prioritizing occupier well-being with sophisticated features like on-site gyms, outdoor spaces, and dynamic pricing models. Growth strategies, including franchising and mergers, gain traction for rapid expansion. The rise of 'brandlords' sees office landlords evolving into flexspace brands, reshaping market dynamics. Examples include Landsec, GPE, and British Land in the UK, Penta Investments’ FLEKSI and CTP’s Clubco in the Czech Republic, and Highbrook Investors and REB with The Collection in the Netherlands.Zoe Ellis-MooreSpaces to Places, Downside
18. United States 🇺🇸
In 2024, the coworking landscape undergoes a transformative shift as landlords seek new data-driven insights to confidently enter the flex office market. With coworking evolving into a consumer-focused product, the emphasis shifts to understanding individual preferences and lifestyles. Innovations like DenSwap, leveraging data to project demand and guide investments, signal a trend that could unlock numerous coworking locations and attract millions in investment, reshaping the industry dynamics.Craig BauteDenSwap, Creative Density, Denver
In 2024, coworking continues to thrive as more and more companies choose to downsize their underutilized office space and send their workers into coworking spaces for a place to work in a community. Real Estate will have a real reckoning with office space on the decline and with no end in sight.Liz ElamGCUC, Austin
To Take Away
And there you have it—the exciting scoop on 2024's coworking space trends straight from the experts! As we wrap up this journey, remember: staying on top of these trends is like having a secret map to navigate the future of shared spaces.
But hey, we get it. Keeping up can be a bit of a challenge. That's where we come in. Consider this your friendly nudge to stay in the loop with the latest coworking vibes. How? Easy! Just stay tuned to our blog, and, of course, make the most of the tech magic.
And speaking of tech magic, why not give Spacebring a spin? Your coworking experience is about to get a whole lot smoother. So, here's to the future of work, to learning and growing, and to making coworking a breeze.