Designer: Best Coworking Spaces A Deep Dive
For designers, the workspace isn’t just a place to sit — it’s a tool that fuels creativity, streamlines workflow, and connects you to a community of like-minded creatives. Traditional corporate offices often lack the flexibility and niche amenities designers need, while working from home can lead to isolation and distraction. Coworking spaces have emerged as the gold standard for design professionals, blending ergonomic work setups, creative resources, and networking opportunities. This deep dive breaks down everything you need to know about the best coworking spaces for designers, from key features to top picks and selection tips.
What Makes a Coworking Space Ideal for Designers?
Not all coworking spaces are created equal. For design professionals, generic open-plan spaces with slow wifi and uncomfortable chairs won’t cut it. The best designer-focused coworking spaces offer a mix of functional, creative, and community perks:
- Ergonomic, design-first workstations: Adjustable standing desks, color-accurate LED lighting, high-resolution 4K monitors, and anti-glare surfaces to reduce eye strain during long design sessions.
- Creative production amenities: On-site large-format printers, prototyping labs with 3D printers and laser cutters, mood board walls, sample material libraries, and photo/video studios for portfolio shoots.
- Niche community programming: Regular design workshops, portfolio review nights, client mixer events, and access to a network of freelance and in-house designers across specialties (UX, graphic, industrial, fashion).
- Flexible membershipoptions: Hourly drop-in rates, daily passes, monthly hot desks, dedicated desks, and private studios to fit solo freelancers and small design teams alike.
- Strategic location: Proximity to transit hubs, client offices, inspiration spots (galleries, cafes, creative districts), and 24/7 access for late-night project crunches.
Top 5 Coworking Spaces for Designers (2024)
1. WeWork (Designer-First Locations)
WeWork’s select locations now feature dedicated creative floors tailored to design professionals. These floors include sample libraries, large-format printers, and monthly design mixers with industry leaders. Most locations offer 24/7 access, on-site cafes with barista service, and free coffee. Pricing starts at $300/month for hot desks, $600/month for dedicated desks, and $1,200/month for private studios.
2. The Wing (Creative Collective Hubs)
Originally founded for women in creative fields, The Wing’s spaces are a favorite among graphic, editorial, and brand designers. Each location features pastel-toned work nooks, library spaces for sketching, and event rooms for client presentations. Members get free access to Adobe Creative Cloud workshops and quarterly portfolio review events. Memberships start at $215/month for hot desks, with dedicated desks available at $450/month.
3. TechSpace (UX/Product Design Centers)
TechSpace caters specifically to UX, product, and digital designers, with dedicated usability testing labs, high-speed fiber internet (1Gbps+), and on-site IT support for design software like Figma, Sketch, and Adobe XD. Many locations offer soundproof private studios for client calls and user testing sessions. Pricing: $350/month for hot desks, $750/month for dedicated desks, $1,500/month for private offices.
4. MakeOffices (Prototyping-Friendly Spaces)
MakeOffices is the top pick for industrial, fashion, and product designers who need hands-on prototyping tools. Locations include workshops with CNC machines, sewing labs, laser cutters, and woodworking tools. All spaces have adjustable standing desks, anti-glare windows, and free weekly design software training. Memberships start at $275/month for hot desks, $550/month for dedicated desks.
5. Local Independent Creative Collectives
Smaller, locally owned collectives often offer the most tailored perks for designers: shared material libraries, community art walls, and direct connections to local freelance clients and small businesses. Pricing varies by city but typically ranges from $150-$400/month. Check local creative directories or ask other designers in your network for recommendations.
How to Choose the Right Coworking Space for Your Design Practice
With hundreds of options to choose from, narrowing down the best space for your needs can feel overwhelming. Follow these 5 steps to make the right choice:
- List your non-negotiables: Do you need 24/7 access? Color-accurate lighting? Private call rooms? High-speed wifi? Write down your must-haves before you start touring spaces.
- Take a free trial day: Most coworking spaces offer free day passes. Test the wifi speed, chair comfort, noise levels, and bathroom cleanliness during your typical work hours (e.g., if you work 9am-5pm, don’t tour at 7pm when the space is empty).
- Review the community calendar: Are there events relevant to your design niche? If you’re a UX designer, look for usability testing workshops or product design mixers. If you’re a graphic designer, look for branding workshops or portfolio nights.
- Calculate total costs: Include hidden fees like printing credits, meeting room rentals, parking, and coffee. A $300/month hot desk with $50/month in printing fees and $20/month for coffee is more expensive than a $350/month all-inclusive option.
- Ask for referrals: Talk to other designers in your professional network about their favorite spaces. They can give you honest feedback about noise levels, community quality, and hidden perks you won’t find on a website.
Final Thoughts
The right coworking space can transform your design practice, boosting creativity, expanding your professional network, and reducing the stress of working from home or a generic office. Whether you’re a solo freelance graphic designer or a 5-person product design team, prioritize spaces that align with your specific workflow and creative goals. Start with a free trial day at 2-3 top picks to find the space that feels like home for your design work.
