The coworking industry is undergoing a major transformation. With the impact of AI, changing work dynamics, and evolving member expectations, the future of coworking is full of exciting possibilities.
In this article, we'll delve into the key trends shaping the industry in 2025 and beyond. From the rise of niche spaces and the power of community to the impact of AI and the importance of brand building, we'll explore the strategies that will drive success in the years to come.
This article is based on insights from over 200 experts across 25+ countries, including Austria, Belgium, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, Canada, the US, EMEA, the UK, Portugal, Israel, Bulgaria, France, the Netherlands, Italy, Sweden, Bahrain, Romania, Poland, Turkey, Japan, Finland, Hungary, Latvia, the Czech Republic, and Lithuania.
So, buckle up and join us as we navigate the exciting future of coworking!
Flexspace in prime locations with excellent transport links will remain popular. City fringe locations will struggle. Flex brands will merge across borders to strengthen their network and back-office functions, while retaining their unique identities.Florian KosakCEO, Co-Founder of Unicorn Workspaces
1. The Evolution of Space Design
The design of coworking spaces significantly impacts member satisfaction and productivity. In recent years, there has been a shift towards creating more inspiring, functional, and human-centric work environments.
Dedicated spaces tailored to different needs, such as silent zones for focused work and fun zones for relaxation have potential to be popular in coworking spaces by 2025.Ozgur OzgencerCommunity & Events Manager at Zoku Paris
Biophilic Design
Biophilic design incorporates elements of nature into the built environment. By incorporating natural light, plants, and natural materials, coworking spaces can create a more calming and productive atmosphere. Studies have shown that biophilic design can reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and boost creativity. For instance, the study from Human Spaces "The Global Impact of Biophilic Design in the Workplace" shows that workers in offices with natural elements, such as greenery and sunlight are 6% more productive, report 15% higher level of well-being and are 15% more creative.
Biophilic elements like green walls bring nature indoors, reducing stress and boosting creativity. Natural light and views improve well-being. Eco-friendly materials and green certifications reduce waste and limit toxins.Katya HicksHead of Division at This Way Coworking
Flexible Workspaces
Gone are the days of rigid, traditional office layouts. Modern coworking spaces offer a variety of workspaces to cater to different needs and preferences. Private offices provide a quiet and focused environment for individual work, while shared desks offer a more social and collaborative setting. Collaborative areas, such as meeting rooms and lounge spaces, encourage teamwork and idea-sharing.
Wellness-Focused Amenities
Coworking spaces are increasingly incorporating wellness-focused amenities to promote physical and mental well-being. Yoga and meditation rooms, fitness centers, and healthy food options can help members stay energized and focused throughout the day.
The Ultimate Guide to Designing and Utilizing an Effective Coworking Space Layout
2. The Impact of Technology
Technology is revolutionizing the coworking industry, offering innovative solutions to enhance the member experience and streamline operations.
AI-Powered Automation
Coworking spaces will become more and more technology oriented, so I believe that with the increasing of the AI technology, the business will be more and more automated in the future!Plamen HristovFounder and CEO at Biz Hub
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming various aspects of coworking. AI-powered chatbots can handle routine inquiries, freeing up staff to focus on more complex tasks. Additionally, AI can analyze member data to identify trends and preferences, enabling personalized services. For instance, AI can recommend suitable meeting rooms based on occupancy and member preferences, optimize space utilization through predictive analytics, assist with marketing and sales efforts by analyzing customer behavior and sentiment, and even help customers choose the most suitable membership package or product.
AI voice agents will revolutionize coworking operations in 2025. They'll handle inquiries, schedule tours, and even upsell services, streamlining the entire process and improving customer experience.Suraj NaikFounder of StudentAI.app
How to Boost Coworking Space Efficiency with AI
Smart Building Technology
Internet of Things (IoT) devices are being integrated into coworking spaces to optimize energy consumption, improve security, and create a more comfortable environment. For example, smart lighting systems can adjust lighting levels based on natural light and occupancy, while smart thermostats can regulate temperature to save energy. Additionally, smart sensors can monitor air quality and adjust ventilation accordingly, ensuring a healthy indoor environment.
Beyond environmental benefits, IoT devices can enhance the member experience. For instance, smart locks and access control systems can provide seamless entry and exit, while smart meeting room booking systems can optimize space utilization.
Virtual and Augmented Reality
Virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) technologies are opening up new possibilities for coworking spaces. VR can be used for virtual tours of spaces, remote collaboration sessions, and immersive training experiences. For example, a virtual tour can give potential members a realistic sense of the space, while remote collaboration can enable teams to work together seamlessly, regardless of their physical location
AR can provide real-time information about the workspace, such as room availability, occupancy levels, and nearby amenities. Additionally, AR can be used to create interactive experiences, such as virtual signage or guided tours of the space.
A digital platform where the coworking community will be built digitally and globally. One place for each interested party, the users from one side, space owners from second side, event organisers from third side.Slobodan Adji AndovSoftware Engineer at Ambitious Solutions
3. The Power of Community
Community building is more than just a trend in coworking spaces; it's the heart and soul of a thriving space. By fostering strong connections among members, coworking spaces can create a vibrant ecosystem that fuels innovation, fosters collaboration, and boosts member satisfaction.
Coworking spaces will need to measure the impact of community building efforts. This will clarify the role of community managers and justify the investment in community initiatives.Yuta AokiCEO & Founder of Japan Coworking space & Community manager Organization
Beyond Networking
While social events, workshops, and networking opportunities are essential, the future of community building goes beyond simple introductions. Here's where coworking spaces can truly differentiate themselves:
The most important challenge will be building a trusted community. There are many ways of doing it but the most efficient is to have a keen community manager that enrich connections between people with common arguments that can become evident as part of the contact nurturing process.Simone MaterazziCo-Founder and CEO at Enable.Work SA
- Hyper-Local Focus: Coworking spaces can become hubs for local connection. Imagine partnerships with nearby businesses, support for local initiatives, and programming that reflects the unique community. This not only fosters a sense of belonging but also attracts members seeking a work-life balance with reduced commute times.
- Building Trust: Trust is uber important in building strong communities. Dedicated community managers who can nurture connections based on shared interests will be key.
- Data-Driven Decisions: Measuring the impact of community building will be crucial. Analyzing results will help refine strategies and demonstrate the value community managers bring.
Hyper-local coworking spaces will be a major trend in 2025. These spaces will focus on local connections, partnerships, and community initiatives. They will offer personalized services, such as local introductions and neighbourhood events, to create a sense of belonging.Alex YoungDirector of Projects
Collaboration Beyond Borders
The future of community extends beyond the walls of a single space. Coworking experts envision cross-border collaboration between communities, enabling them to achieve greater things together. We all have witnessed coworking spaces across Europe working together to provide spaces for migrants and refugees to enter the workforce. This larger-scale collaboration fosters a sense of global community and creates positive social impact.
Coworking communities will collaborate more in 2025, working together on larger-scale initiatives like providing spaces for migrants and refugees. This increased collaboration will allow communities to achieve greater things and practice what they preach on a larger scale.Ashley ProctorFounder of Coworking Canada
20 Steps to Start, Grow, & Nurture Coworking Community
4. The Importance of Brand and Experience
A strong brand and exceptional member experience are crucial for the success of any coworking space.
Strong Brand Identity
A unique brand identity helps a coworking space stand out in a crowded market. It's more than just a logo and a color scheme. A strong brand identity involves:
Strong brands with large portfolios are gaining ground. Aggregators and brokers are losing traction. Success hinges on transparency and consistent delivery. Large-scale providers will dominate the market.Zoe Ellis-MooreCEO & Founder of Spaces to Places Ltd
- Core Values: Defining what the space stands for, such as innovation, creativity, or community.
- Brand Story: Crafting a compelling narrative that resonates with the target audience.
- Visual Identity: Developing a consistent visual style, including logo, color palette, and typography.
- Brand Messaging: Using clear and consistent messaging to communicate the space's unique value proposition.
Tailored flex offices will see a rising demand as companies are eager to have flex spaces that can enable their culture to thrive in the workplace, replacing the coworking operator branded office.Miguel GomesCEO at Nimbler Spaces
Striving for your coworking space to become a recognized brand?
Exceptional Member Experience
A positive member experience is essential for attracting and retaining members. Coworking spaces can enhance the member experience by:
We believe that providing an all round service covering multiple aspects of members business will be crucial in the business. Providing well designed space is not enough anymore and coworking providers will need to dive in deeper to provide workplace-as-a-service.Bozhidar GeorgievCEO at Work&Share Coworking Space
- Personalized Services: Tailoring services to individual needs, such as offering customized membership plans or personalized concierge services.
- Welcoming Atmosphere: Creating a warm and inviting space through thoughtful design, friendly staff, and community-building events.
- High-Quality Amenities: Providing top-notch amenities, such as fast Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and state-of-the-art meeting rooms.
- Excellent Customer Service: Responding promptly to member inquiries and addressing issues efficiently.
I think a lot of coworking places are going to incorporate country club amenities, such as wellness centers, lounges, on-site gyms, private dining, spas ect. Attracting members who want a lifestyle experience rather than just a desk.Morgan RochesterMarketing Manager at isofy
Strategic Partnerships
Strategic partnerships can significantly enhance the value proposition of a coworking space. By collaborating with other businesses, coworking spaces can offer exclusive perks and discounts to their members. For instance, partnerships with local restaurants, gyms, and technology companies can provide members with access to discounted meals, fitness classes, or software licenses.
To make these benefits easily accessible, coworking spaces can create a dedicated benefits catalog, available directly within the member app. This centralized platform allows members to quickly browse and redeem offers, enhancing their overall experience.
5. The Rise of Niche Coworking Spaces
Niche coworking spaces are on the rise, catering to specific industries, interests, or demographics. These specialized workspaces offer tailored services and foster strong communities of like-minded individuals.
Coworking cafes are popular for their hybrid spaces, blending coffee shop vibes with private office functionality. They cater to freelancers, remote workers, and entrepreneurs seeking a comfortable yet productive workspace.Carlos GoncalvesCEO & Founder of Avila Spaces
For instance, tech hubs can provide high-speed internet, developer tools, and networking events for tech startups and entrepreneurs. Creative studios can offer specialized equipment, workshops, and exhibition opportunities for artists, designers, and musicians. Additionally, niche spaces can cater to specific professions like chefs, hairdressers, doctors, or photographers, offering industry-specific resources and networking opportunities.
Beyond industry-specific niches, there are also interest-based coworking spaces. These spaces might focus on hobbies, passions, or social causes, such as gaming, sustainability, or social impact. By bringing together individuals with shared interests, these spaces foster a sense of community and enable collaboration on projects and initiatives.
6. The Future of Work and the Role of Coworking
The future of work is evolving rapidly, and coworking spaces are well-positioned to play a crucial role in this transformation. As more and more companies adopt hybrid and remote work models, coworking spaces can offer flexible workspace solutions to meet the needs of a diverse workforce.
Customers now prioritize flexible solutions like coworking and flexible office space due to global uncertainties. Additionally, ESG compliance is becoming a key factor in customer decisions.Hubert Abt, FRICSCEO & Founder of New Work and workcloud24 AG
Hybrid Work
The rise of hybrid work has created a demand for flexible workspace solutions. Coworking spaces can cater to the needs of hybrid workers by offering a variety of membership plans, including flexible plans that allow members to access the space on a pay-as-you-go basis. Additionally, coworking spaces can provide remote work solutions, such as virtual office packages that include a dedicated phone number and mailing address.
Corporate Partnerships
Many corporations are partnering with coworking spaces to provide flexible workspace solutions for their employees. These partnerships offer several benefits, including:
- Increased flexibility: Employees can work from different locations, improving work-life balance and productivity.
- Reduced overhead costs: Corporations can save on real estate costs by utilizing coworking spaces.
- Access to a wider talent pool: Coworking spaces can provide access to a diverse pool of talent.
I believe we will see a greater shift to joint ventures or management contracts with landlords, rather than operators leasing the spaces from the building owners. We'll also see greater AI impacts to the industry—particularly as it relates to pricing and availability of inventory.Mike LaRosaFlex Workspace Expert
The Rise of the Digital Nomad
Digital nomads are individuals who work remotely and travel the world. Coworking spaces can cater to the needs of digital nomads by offering high-speed internet, comfortable workspaces, co-living facilities, and networking opportunities. Additionally, coworking spaces can provide additional services, such as visa assistance and local recommendations, to help digital nomads settle in.
7. Sustainability and Social Impact
Coworking spaces are increasingly becoming hubs for sustainability and social impact. By adopting eco-friendly practices and supporting local communities, these spaces can contribute to a more sustainable future.
Amy King on How to Start a Sustainability Journey as a Coworking Business Owner
Eco-Friendly Practices
Coworking spaces can reduce their environmental impact by implementing energy-efficient practices, such as using LED lighting and smart thermostats. Additionally, recycling programs and composting initiatives can help reduce waste. By choosing sustainable materials for furniture and decor, coworking spaces can further minimize their environmental footprint.
Social Responsibility
Beyond environmental sustainability, coworking spaces can also make a positive impact on their communities. By organizing community events, volunteering initiatives, and partnering with local organizations, coworking spaces can foster a sense of belonging and contribute to social causes. Additionally, creating inclusive spaces that welcome people from all backgrounds can promote diversity and equity.
Inclusivity and Success: Her Power Space
The Future of Coworking: A Bright Horizon
After speaking with numerous industry experts, it's clear that the future of coworking is incredibly promising. By embracing the trends we've discussed, coworking spaces can continue to evolve and thrive.
Let's prioritize community building, exceptional member experiences, and technological innovation to create dynamic and inspiring workspaces. Together, we can shape the future of work and make a positive impact on our communities.
Ready to elevate your coworking space? Schedule a demo call with our product expert today to learn how Spacebring can help you streamline operations, enhance the member experience, and achieve your business goals.
A heartfelt thank you to all who contributed to this report. 💜
We couldn't have done it without your insights and expertise. Your contributions have made this report possible and have helped us gain a deeper understanding of the future of coworking.
Nevena Bacheva, Ahoy! Berlin | Suraj Naik, StudentAI | Yordan Bogev, Campus X |
Kristelina Staykova, Entract 127 | Yuta Aoki, JCCO | Özgür Ozgencer, Zoku |
Tomasz Ziemak, Skanska Property Poland | Simone Materazzi, Enable.Work SA | Ana Sousa, Vertical Coworking |
Slobodan Adji Andov, Ambitious Solutions | Miguel Gomes, Nimbler Spaces | Florian Kosak, Unicorn Workspaces |
Mike LaRosa, ThisWeekInCoworking.com | Freddie Scobey, Work+Play | Katya Hicks, This Way |
Borislava Tzvetkova, This Way | Fofie Mimi-Saltiel, coho.gr | Miruna Cuzman, Cowork Timișoara |
Agnieszka Ciunajtis, Creo Concept | Bozhidar Georgiev, Work&Share Coworking Space | Plamen Hristov, Biz Hub |
Xavi Bassons, Monday Working Spaces | John Milhado, Spazepod Benelux | Hubert Abt, workcloud24 |
Aurelio Balestra, Toolbox Coworking | Tony Bacigalupo, Open Coworking | Morgan Rochester, Isofy |
Carlos Gonçalves, Avila Spaces | Mare Demoya | Francesco Decamilli, Uniti |
Maria Bastos, Nowhere Desk | Christofi Christou, Peabody | Zoe Ellis-Moore, Spaces to Places |
Alex Young, Projects | Joachim Gripp, Design Offices | Matthias Zeitler, Coliving Semkovo |
Miriam Constantin, V7 Startup Studio | Fabian Munz, Coworking Bottighofen | Irena Teneva, KORNER Coworking |
Olivier Kegels, Humgy Cowork Space | Thom Wernke, StartDock | Alexandra Bernhardt, Friedrich Schiller University Jena |
Ferhat Engel, Engelnest | Koen Batsleer, OFFICENTER | Szilvia Filep, Coworking Hungary |
Sergio Fernandes, Zoku Copenhagen | Bruno Rebille, Choose and Work | Jean Yves Huwart, Coworking Europe Conference |
Stefania Pasquarelli, Toolbox Coworking | Iwona Barszcz, Brain Embassy | Marc Navarro, Coworking Spain |
Vanessa Sans, Happy Working Lab | Jens Quast, GoNetworking Space | Ann Marie Kinlock, KindHaus |
Karen Tait, The Residence Coworking | Caleb Parker, Brave Corp | Laura Agnew, Peabody |
Pauline Roussel, Coworkies | Ashley Proctor, Coworking Canada |