The co-working phenomenon – and where you should try it in Madrid

As remote work tightens its grip on the future, typical office-based positions are becoming increasingly old-fashioned. The new generation of workers are more likely to take up remote positions, even in the richest countries, with 50% of the UK population expected to be working remotely by 2020. 

A 2019 Buffer survey of remote workers around the world indicated that 99% would like to continue working remotely for at least some part of their future. It is a trend that is here to stay.

Naturally, an increase in remote working means that there must be facilities to accommodate workers’ needs. Many may choose to work from home, but the solitude and potential distractions of that environment makes co-working space a popular alternative. The term ‘co-working’ was coined in 1999 by Bernie DeKoven, simply to describe a collaborative working space. 

A co-working space tends to resemble a traditional office, but perhaps with more modern luxuries like elegant computers, coffee machines and telephone booths. An important thing to note about co-working spaces is they aren’t just used by the typical stereotype of a remote worker. Most people might imagine a remote worker as a sole freelancer or entrepreneur, eyes fixed on their laptop for fourteen hours per day. The truth is that co-working spaces are home to freelancers, startups and developed businesses, and travelling business owners.

With such a diverse group of remote workers making up the population of any co-working space, it is important they contain facilities for all – single desks for independent contractors, and communal meeting rooms for businesses.

What makes a great co-working space?

Large numbers of co-working spaces are popping up all over the world in order to satisfy the needs of remote workers and organisations hungry to instill some work-life balance. They add a social aspect to work, as each space is full of like-minded individuals on a mission to achieve something.

Naturally, co-working spaces are evolving to beat the competition, and this usually means more swanky spaces for us workers. Forbes compiled a list of the 5 beautiful co-working spaces across the globe, including Montreal’s ‘Crew Collective’ with its 50 foot high ceilings, marble walls and chandeliers. 

The most important thing about a co-working space, however, definitely isn’t its beauty. A co-working space needs to offer a peaceful area where independent freelancers and startup teams alike can find the perfect place to work. One of the main reasons entrepreneurs might sign up for a co-working space is to avoid the negative mental impacts of isolation. Working at home gets lonely, and not to mention distracting. Co-working spaces provide a place to be around other people and feel more social – a vital part of maintaining positive mental health. 

Alternatively, if you are part of a larger group or business, leasing office space comes with its headaches. Usually, you have to commit for a long period of time and deal with utility bills. Co-working spaces often provide flexible plans and come with bills covered!

That sounds great – where can I do this in Madrid?

If you’re interested in the idea of signing up for a co-working space in Madrid, or setting up your team in one, I have done the research and come up with three fantastic options.

LANAU

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• On Calle Mallorca, nestled in a quiet spot of central Madrid, Lanau is full of bright co-working spaces which are sure to inspire creativity in anyone. 
• With over seven years calling themselves home to freelancers, startups and creatives, the space is well-practised when it comes to making remote workers comfortable.
• Lanau has all of the essentials: whiteboards, projectors, coffee machines, snacks and a patio.
• Extra social offerings such as language courses or sewing classes.
• Strong supporter of women entrepreneurship and diversity causes.
• Open Monday to Friday from 9am until 9pm, plans start from €120 per month. 

URBAN CAMPUS- Jerónimo

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• This is the Urban Campus co-working space located on the bustling of Carrera S. Jeronimo, 17.
• With a dedicated community developer, snack rooms, meeting rooms and 24/7 security, it’s a space to make any remote worker feel at home. 
• You are guaranteed your own fixed desk, so you have the familiarity of working from the same space each day.
• Each person has their own locker to store items – no need to carry things to and fro.
• Plans begin at €250 per month. 

Goya Smart Co-working

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• Located near Puerta de Alcalá, on Calle de Núñez de Balboa, this smart co-working facility is right in the centre of the city.
• They are an ecological space, working with Fairtrade distributors to reduce their ecological footprint.
• Offices have a fantastic view of the surrounding area of Madrid, catering services are available and there are common kitchens with a terrace.
• Hire private offices or meeting rooms for hourly costs.
• Attend weekly classes such as breakfast yoga Wednesday!
• A hot desk here comes at a price of €180 per month. 

Co-working spaces can be luxurious without breaking the bank. These gems in the centre of Madrid provide inspiring work spaces for independent workers and small teams alike!