Why are freelancers choosing shared office spaces?
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Archie Richards
Table of Contents
Oh, freelancing. One minute you’re sipping a latte at a cosy café, and the next, you’re fighting off the screams of an espresso machine while desperately clinging to the café’s painfully slow Wi-Fi. I’ve been there—trying to work while wondering if it’s possible to soundproof a coffee shop with just a stack of napkins.
That’s why I decided enough was enough. I wanted to build a better way for freelancers like you and me to work—a space where we can actually focus, meet other like-minded people, and stop feeling so isolated. That’s how my shared office spaces were born—a solution built from my own experiences and frustrations as a freelancer.
What is a shared office space?
So, what exactly is a shared office space? Well, picture this: it’s like all the best parts of working from home or a café, but without the constant coffee shop noise or the temptation to take a “quick” nap on your sofa. It’s a communal workspace where freelancers, remote workers, and small businesses can actually get stuff done.
In Melbourne, where I’ve set up shop, these spaces are booming. Why? Because freelancers like us are tired of balancing laptops on shaky café tables or trying to ignore the laundry pile staring us down at home. I know—I’ve been there. That’s why I knew a shared office was exactly what we all needed: a professional yet laid-back spot to work, without the crazy overhead costs of renting an entire office.
Why I built shared spaces (and why they’ll work for you)
When I made the jump from freelancing to running coworking spaces, I knew exactly what freelancers needed because I’d been there myself. Let me break down why shared spaces are a game-changer for people like us.
No More Distractions
If you’re like me, trying to work from home or a café can be a disaster. I lost count of how many times I was interrupted by the washing machine or the café next to me turning into a concert venue. Studies show that having a dedicated workspace can boost productivity by up to 30%. Trust me, having a quiet space to focus makes all the difference—I was able to get so much more done when I wasn’t battling distractions.
Collaboration Without Competition
Freelancing can get lonely. One of the things I missed most was bouncing ideas off other professionals and collaborating on projects. That’s why I designed my coworking spaces to make networking feel natural. Harvard Business Review found that 70% of people in shared spaces feel more productive and healthier, and I’ve seen it in action. Freelancers here share projects, refer clients, and actually connect in ways they never could work solo.
Affordability
Back when I was freelancing, renting a private office wasn’t even on the table—it was just too expensive. In Melbourne, office leases can run over $1,200 a month! But with coworking spaces, you can have all the perks of a professional setup for much less. Hot desks start at around $300 a month, so you’re getting flexibility and professionalism without the massive price tag.
What are the different types of shared workspaces for freelancers like you?
As a freelancer, I often wished I could choose a workspace that suited my mood or project. Some days I needed a quiet spot to focus, and other days I craved a more lively, collaborative atmosphere. That’s why, when I created my coworking spaces, I made sure to include options for every kind of freelancer.
| Type of Workspace | Description | Price Range (AUD) | Best For |
| Hot Desk | Shared, unassigned desks. First come, first served. | $250 – $400/month | Freelancers who like flexibility and variety |
| Personal Desk | Your own fixed desk in a shared environment. | $400 – $600/month | People who need a consistent spot |
| Private Office | A fully private, enclosed office. | $800 – $1200+/month | Teams or individuals needing a quiet, private space |
Hot Desk
Sometimes, I needed a change of scenery and didn’t want to commit to one desk all the time. Hot desks are perfect for that! Studies have shown that 62% of workers using hot desks feel they get more networking opportunities. It’s a great way to keep things fresh and meet new people without locking yourself in one spot.
Personal Desk
Having a consistent space was a lifesaver when I freelanced. It gave me a sense of routine, which is key to staying productive. Did you know that 75% of freelancers say having a dedicated workspace increases their productivity? This is perfect for those who value a stable, familiar environment while still enjoying the perks of a shared office.
Private Office
When I needed to buckle down or had big client meetings, nothing beat the peace of a private office. Having that space to focus made all the difference. Private offices are a great option for those who need some headspace or want to work without interruptions. And compared to the typical $1,200+ monthly cost of renting an office in Melbourne, it’s a much more affordable option.
Solving freelancers’ biggest challenges with my shared office space
As a former freelancer, I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges of working independently. To address these issues, I founded this coworking space, offering a supportive community and practical amenities designed to enhance productivity and well-being.
- Isolation: Let’s be real—freelancing can get lonely. I missed the daily chats with colleagues and the simple act of being around other people. That’s why I made building a community a top priority in my space. According to Deskmag’s Global Coworking Survey, 89% of coworkers say they feel less isolated, and that’s exactly what I wanted for the freelancers who work here. You’ll have plenty of chances to connect and collaborate, but in a way that feels natural, not forced.
- Lack of structure: One of the hardest things about freelancing is keeping work and home life separate. I know how easy it is to let work bleed into your personal time when you’re working from home. That’s why my coworking space is designed to give freelancers structure. Here, you can set clear work hours, maintain a routine, and finally enjoy your free time without guilt.
- Professionalism: I’ve had my fair share of client meetings in noisy coffee shops and awkward video calls from my kitchen. It’s not the best look. That’s why I made sure my shared office spaces provide a professional setting. You’ll have a polished environment where you can meet clients, host meetings, or just look more credible when pitching your freelance services.
Is a coworking space or shared office space right for you?
When I made the leap from freelancing to managing coworking spaces, I quickly realised it wasn’t the right fit for every freelancer. But for those like me—freelancers looking for more structure, community, and professionalism—it’s a game-changer. Here’s how to figure out if it’s the right move for you:
- Do distractions at home make it tough to focus?
- Do you miss the social side of working with others?
- Would having access to things like meeting rooms and reliable internet make your work life easier, without the headache of a long-term lease?
If you’re nodding along, then a coworking space might be the change you need. Personally, transitioning into a shared workspace gave me the structure and professionalism that helped me thrive as a freelancer.
Book a shared office space at Storage Glen Iris
To wrap it up, freelancing can get lonely and distracting, but coworking spaces solve those problems. They give you the structure, community, and professionalism you need to stay focused and productive. Whether you need a flexible hot desk or a quiet private office, coworking spaces offer affordable options that help you thrive. If you’re ready to take your freelance work to the next level, a shared office here at Storage Glen Iris could be just the boost you need.
FAQ
A coworking space is more casual, offering freelancers and remote workers flexible, short-term memberships with access to shared amenities like hot desks, communal areas, and event spaces. On the other hand, a serviced office is a more formal, private office setup with dedicated facilities such as reception services, phone lines, and long-term lease agreements, typically suited for larger businesses or teams.
If you’re seeking flexibility and community, a coworking space might be the perfect fit for you. Explore your options today here at Storage Glen Iris!
Shared workspaces come in different formats to suit various needs. The most common types include:
- Hot desks: First-come, first-served shared desks.
- Dedicated desks: Your own personal desk in a shared area.
- Private offices: An enclosed space, ideal for small teams or those needing privacy.
No matter your work style, there’s a coworking option out there for you. Contact us at Storage Glen Iris to book!
Not at all! While freelancers often benefit from the flexibility and networking opportunities, shared working spaces are also popular with startups, remote workers, small businesses, and even larger companies looking for satellite offices. The key advantage is adaptability, making coworking spaces accessible to a wide range of professionals.
Whether you’re a freelancer or part of a start-up business, there’s a shared workspace that fits your needs. Book a consult and see how it can work for you!
