Over the past few years, coworking spaces have become the go-to option for professionals. They once catered mostly to freelancers and solopreneurs, but have now caught the attention of larger companies as well, especially after the shift to hybrid work following the pandemic.
Simply put, coworking spaces are shared work environments where individuals from different industries work independently, yet under the same roof. They come equipped with essentials like high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and printing facilities, all without the added cost or hassle of traditional office setups. In the UK alone, there are over 3,000 such spaces.
In recent times, a new coworking trend has emerged; niche coworking spaces. These spaces don’t follow a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, they’re designed specifically for individual industries and come with the tools, resources, and setups that professionals in that field need. Think of specialised coworking spaces for legal professionals, real estate teams, or designers.
But the question is, will this new coworking trend flourish long-term? Before we answer that, let’s explore what niche coworking spaces are, how they differ from traditional coworking setups, and the benefits they offer.
What is a Niche Coworking Space?
A niche coworking space is built for a specific group of people who share similar work or interests. Instead of being open to everyone, these spaces are built to meet the particular needs of a certain group. The tools, services, and layout are all customised to fit the work style and goals of its members. Some unique features of this new coworking trend are-
- Not a typical office and may include industry-specific resources.
- Members usually come from the same field or background
- Amenities are built for that industry
A few examples of this include coworking hubs for women in tech, artists and designers, professional photographers, fashion entrepreneurs, or even older adults who want to stay active and connected.
Difference Between Traditional and Niche Coworking Space
The table below shows the differences between a traditional and a niche office space in detail:
Aspect |
Traditional Coworking Spaces |
Niche Coworking Spaces |
Who it’s for |
Open to people from all kinds of industries |
Built for a specific group with shared goals or work |
Space Design |
General layout with open desks, meeting rooms, and common areas |
Customised spaces tailored to a specific profession or interest |
Networking |
Cross-industry connections and casual networking opportunities |
Deeper connections with peers who understand your field |
Amenities |
Standard facilities like Wi-Fi, coffee, printers |
Industry-specific tools (e.g. studios, test kitchens, wellness zones) |
Work Culture |
Broad and diverse |
Like-minded people with similar interests or careers |
Benefits of Niche Coworking Spaces
Here are some ways niche office spaces help today’s professionals and businesses thrive:
1.Tailored Work Environments
Niche workspaces are created with specific professions or industries in mind. This allows them to offer office setups, tools, and amenities that align with how certain professionals work. A wellness consultant, for instance, might need quiet, private zones, while a design studio may require open, creative areas with specialised equipment.
2. Built-in Community and Inclusivity
Inclusivity is at the core of niche coworking spaces. When people with shared interests or goals work together, it naturally leads to deeper relationships and collaborations. Every member feels included, with opportunities for mutual growth and teamwork.
3. Efficient Workflows
As discussed earlier, these spaces provide industry-specific tools and resources that help eliminate inefficiencies, allowing professionals to focus on their work. For instance, if you’re a photographer working in a creative coworking space, you may have access to a professional-grade photo studio and editing software. You won’t need to leave the premises or look elsewhere for these resources.
4. Enhanced Productivity
Working alongside others who understand your industry-specific challenges creates a motivating environment. The strong sense of community in niche coworking spaces often results in higher satisfaction and greater productivity for members.
Is Niche Coworking Space the Future?
Niche coworking spaces built around specific communities are picking up. As new industries expand, the need for spaces that truly understand what these professionals require will only increase. You might soon find shared workspaces that double as fitness studios or places designed just for people in green tech, gaming, or remote healthcare.
That said, traditional coworking spaces still hold strong appeal, especially for millennials and Gen Z. The mix of people, the flexibility, and the energy they bring continue to attract a wide audience.
If you’re in London and need a workspace that adapts to how you work, check out GO – Garden Office Bermondsey. We offer fully equipped private offices, lounges, and meeting rooms, designed for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and growing teams. Each office space can be customised to fit your specific requirements, giving you both comfort and functionality in one place.
To learn more, visit our website.