As business owners, we need to know what the different types of workplaces are. This will ensure that your employees and the business as a whole, runs smoothly. Knowing what kind of workplace is needed will help you optimize it to your needs and the goals of the business.
In this article, we’re going to take a look at both shared office space and a coworking space. A lot of people tend to confuse one for each other, and that’s pretty understandable. In summary, the differences between shared office spaces and coworking spaces will vary depending on the business’ requirements and goals.
Because each space varies quite a bit, it is important to properly analyze each one. Let’s explore their differences, similarities, the benefits each one brings, and more. We’re also going to provide examples of each office space that you can find in Austin, TX. So, if you’re looking for space in Austin, then read on to find out more.
What is a Shared Office Space?
Shared office space is a large workspace that is rented out for numerous people. It is designed to support small companies. It is when multiple businesses share a commercial office. The term “shared office space” is commonly used when a tenant of a privately leased office rents out the free space to another business. This way, both parties will benefit from splitting the bills, costs, and rent of the space.
The terms for the shared rent and expenses are agreed upon by the involved parties that will share the office space. Most often than not, the tenant host will already have the amenities the incoming business may need. This can include things such as the internet, telephone lines, furniture, etc.
Shared office spaces are equipped with the necessary tech, perks, and features that a small company may need. We will look at these features in detail in the next section.
Shared office spaces differ from coworking spaces in the resources and amenities they offer to the tenants. Another huge difference between the two is their target market. Shared offices tend to be geared towards established, small businesses while coworking spaces cater to solo entrepreneurs, freelancers, and startup businesses.
Shared Office Space – Features
Now you know what shared office space is, let’s look at the various features it offers that differs it from a coworking space.
Large Space
Because shared offices tend to target small, established businesses, they tend to have larger spaces compared to a coworking space.
Plenty of Amenities Offered
Due to its inherent large space, shared office spaces have plenty of traditional office amenities on offer to help the workers run their company daily. Some of the amenities a shared office space may have can include a dedicated kitchen, reception services, and a wide collection of office equipment to help with the operations.
Traditional Office Layout and Design
Shared office spaces tend to have a more traditional office layout and design compared to coworking spaces. A business can rent out their private rooms for the employees. In a shared office building, companies are segregated into their own rooms and spaces instead of mixing together.
The overall design is more conventional, reminiscent of a traditional office building. So if you’re looking for that kind of atmosphere for your company, then a shared office space may be for you.
Shared Office Space – The Benefits
There are plenty of benefits a shared office space can provide to your company. However, just like anything in life, there will be pros and cons to consider. We’ve compiled some of our thoughts and opinions on the benefits and cons that a shared office space can bring to the table.
Pros of a Shared Office Space
Ready to use
One of the main pros of shared office spaces is that it is very convenient to move in. Most of them already have the amenities you need, all you have to do is move in. You can get back to work as soon as possible.
Keep costs low
Keeping expenses as low as possible is crucial for every level of business, especially so for startups. With shared office spaces, you can keep your overhead costs low while still having access to traditional office space and amenities.
Freedom and Flexibility
When renting out shared office spaces, you are free from the responsibilities and commitments of a long-term lease that is associated with commercial offices. Most shared office space agreements are quite flexible, they can offer you to pay rent every month.
Cons of a Shared Office Space
The Layout and Design
Most shared office spaces are buildings that are divided into large sections for each company renting. This can mean that the layout and design of the space may be too practical, and sometimes dull, for some people.
Lack of Customization Options
Due to the practical layout and design, you don’t really get many options to really customize your space to your liking.
Examples of Shared Office Spaces in Austin, TX
Examples of shared office spaces you can find in Austin, Texas.
- Createscape Coworking
- Techspace – Austin
- Vessel Coworking
What is a Coworking Space?
Now, on the other hand, we have coworking spaces. The differences between coworking spaces and shared office spaces have been quite blurred overtime. However, coworking spaces still have unique features that make them differ and stand out.
A coworking space is an office space that is geared for individual freelancers and entrepreneurs to rent. The space provided is generally smaller compared to shared office spaces. One of the main things that differ coworking spaces from traditional offices or even shared offices is that the individuals that use the space together aren’t all working for one company.
Think of coworking spaces as spaces for individual freelancers, working on their own projects, and sometimes collaborating with each other. This is why most coworking spaces are large open rooms instead of individual rooms, it promotes collaboration and community building between the freelancers.
In recent years, coworking has seen a meteoric rise. According to statistics, available coworking spaces are expected to double by 2024 which will surpass 40,000 spaces. The United States is home to the largest coworking space market in the world, boasting 3,700 coworking spaces across the country.
Coworking Space – Features
Let’s look at the features that coworking spaces provide. If you think any of these features suit your freelance career, then we highly recommend checking out coworking spaces.
Community Oriented
Coworking spaces are most commonly known for their excellent community building. The focus is to expand your network of contacts, which is crucial for any freelancer or startup entrepreneurs. You’ll be amongst dozens of people and meet new contacts on almost a daily basis.
Flexibility and Customization
Compared to shared offices, coworking spaces are flexible in nature. This is their main selling point and advantage. Small businesses and even individuals can rent their own dedicated desks or hot desks on a daily basis. However, a lot of coworking spaces offer reduced rates if tenants sign up for a fixed term; this is usually around three to six months.
Significantly Lower Prices
Because the overall space is fairly small, and you only have to rent a portion of the space for work, the costs are very minimal. Especially when you consider that you get access to various amenities and equipment while surrounded by hard-working, and driven people.
Highly Customizable
Because the space is fairly open and flexible with its design, coworking spaces tend to be more customization friendly compared to the shared office spaces. You’ll be able to really personalize your space and even collaborate with your fellow tenants to spruce up the overall design.
Coworking Space – The Benefits
Here we’re going to look at some of the pros and cons of renting in a coworking space that you should consider.
Pros of a Coworking Space
Very Affordable
A coworking space is significantly more affordable than leasing your own commercial office. This is especially important if you’re a solo freelancer or a small startup business. Every saved penny counts.
Plenty of Amenities Provided
Most, if not all, coworking spaces will be equipped with all the amenities you will need to help you work efficiently every day. These amenities can include a stable internet connection, meeting areas, a small kitchenette for snacks, various office equipment, and more.
A Great Sense of Community
One of the main selling points of coworking spaces is their sense of community and acceptance. You’ll be able to form long-lasting bonds with the people in your coworking space. Coworking spaces are heavily designed to promote collaborative and creative works.
Highly Customizable
Most coworking spaces are very customizable. You can work with your fellow tenants to enhance the overall space and optimize it for both efficiency and style. We know that no one enjoys working in a dreary environment.
Cons of a Coworking Space
Fairly Limited Space
Coworking spaces are designed for individuals, this is why it has less space compared to shared office spaces. If you’re a freelancer who needs a larger space, renting into a coworking space may not be ideal.
Examples of C-Working Spaces in Austin, TX
Here are some of our top favorite working spaces here in Austin, TX.
- Galvanize
- Link Coworking
- MELD Coworking
Conclusion
There you have it, now you know the main differences, features, and benefits of shared office and coworking spaces. We hope that you’ve learned something new about these workplaces. We wish you good luck in your business or freelance ventures.
