Flexible workspaces: Deciding Between Day Offices, Dedicated Desks and Co-working

WorkWell on September 15, 2025

Flexible workspace for all businesses

At WorkWell, we offer three types of workspace solutions: day offices, co-working spaces, and dedicated desks.

Day-offices, dedicated desks and co-working spaces are professional serviced environments, which operate uniquely, offering different types of office spaces for various working needs.

 Co-working spaces, often referred to as hot-desking, are open-plan offices allocated for businesses to work within. This style of working allows businesses to work alongside others, network and reap the benefits of a professional space at a fraction of the cost.

Day offices, on the other hand, are private office spaces that are available for short-term rental.  These rooms offer a private, dedicated space for businesses to operate within without distraction.

Private space

Dedicated desks combine elements from both types of workspaces, typically accommodating individuals and smaller teams in a shared-private office. An ideal choice for those wanting a fixed desk in an office environment, whilst creating a sense of community that co-working offers.

When a day office is the practical option

Day offices are ideal for teams that need to get together temporarily. Unlike a meeting room, this space is set up with workstations to plug and play. An ideal solution for hybrid and project-based teams looking for a short-term base.

Ergonomic furniture and smart storage solutions in our clean and well-designed offices are designed for productive and efficient working. Built-in conferencing capabilities remove the hassle of bringing your own equipment, perfect for a fast setup.

Our spaces are secure, which means our returning members can rest assured knowing any items kept within their day office remain safe. Each space blends comfort with convenience, promoting efficiency and productivity, tangible results and a real-time impact on the quality of output from a business.

When a co-working space is the most suitable option

Co-working is a fantastic option for entrepreneurs, businesses and freelancers seeking a tidy, nice, professional working environment, with opportunities to network and connect with other people.

Our co-working settings are perfect for those wanting an office-like environment. The ability to use the space as and when needed makes it ideal for those who adopt hybrid-work models or part-time office workers.

Our co-working spaces have numerous allocated seats, which may be acquired by various teams, which means our members will likely have the opportunity to meet other co-working members. We promote a collaborative atmosphere, increasing the chance for individuals to connect with other professionals.

When a dedicated desk is the ideal solution

Dedicated desk strikes a balance between the benefits of co-working and day offices, allowing small teams to have a dedicated space within a private office made up of other businesses.

This model of work allows our dedicated desk members to enjoy the privacy of an office, whilst still having the opportunity to network with other members. This is an effective long-term solution for those who only need one or two desks rather than a full private office.

Ready to find the right fit?

If you’re exploring the flexibility of a co-working space, the consistency of a dedicated desk, or a short-term base from a day office, contact us, and we’d be happy to discuss your business needs. We can help you explore the most practical office, as well as provide a tour of the facilities upon request.

Offices must be designed to support productivity

WorkWell on March 28, 2025

As hybrid work and flexible arrangements reshape the workforce, office spaces must evolve to remain relevant and supportive of productivity.

The “Adapting Offices for the Future of Work” study from the University of Leeds provides valuable insights into why office design matters in today’s work environment. This blog will share its key findings and actionable strategies for companies looking to design offices that foster productivity, collaboration, and employee satisfaction.

The importance of the physical office.

While remote work has advantages, the research highlights the irreplaceable value of physical office space. Offices serve as an anchor for work, providing an environment conducive to focus, creativity, and connection. For many, being in the office offers mental separation between home and work life, which can enhance productivity.

The University of Leeds study confirmed that offices are central to employee interaction, well-being, and productivity. Employees benefit from direct engagement with colleagues, strengthening social bonds and fostering collaboration.

Time spent with coworkers positively impacts both individuals and organisations by improving morale, reducing isolation, and encouraging teamwork. This social dimension of work emphasises why physical offices must remain part of the modern workplace.

Flexible and hybrid spaces for a dynamic workforce.

With the rise of hybrid work, one-size-fits-all office designs are no longer viable. The modern office must accommodate a range of work styles and schedules. The University of Leeds research suggests that agile, activity-based workspaces are increasingly popular for supporting diverse needs. These spaces offer different setups for focused work, collaboration, and relaxation, enabling employees to choose environments that best suit their tasks.

A flexible office space can help employees feel supported and enhance productivity. Companies are now investing in technologies like hot-desking, booking systems, and reconfigurable furniture to make workplaces adaptable. Such adjustments allow offices to cater to varying attendance patterns while ensuring employees have access to essential resources when they are on-site.

Technology for productivity.

Modern offices need to support productivity through technology. From booking systems that make it easy to reserve workspaces to digital collaboration tools that facilitate remote-in-office communication, technology is key to creating efficient work environments. The Leeds study emphasises that successful hybrid work models depend on more than physical space; they require a robust socio-technical approach.

By incorporating tools like high-speed internet, interactive whiteboards, and virtual meeting rooms, offices can bridge the gap between remote and in-person teams. These technological enhancements support smoother workflows, enabling employees to collaborate without interruption. Investing in such tools helps ensure that time spent in the office is maximally productive and that remote team members remain connected.

Well-being through design.

According to the research, employee well-being has emerged as a top priority for companies, moving from fifth to third on the list of strategic issues for businesses. A well-designed office can promote well-being, which in turn drives productivity. Design elements such as natural lighting, ergonomic furniture, and open layouts contribute to a healthier work environment, reducing stress and enhancing focus.

Collaborative spaces are particularly beneficial for well-being, allowing for social interaction and teamwork. These spaces can range from lounge areas to break rooms or spaces that encourage relaxation and informal conversation. By incorporating elements that prioritise wellness, companies can foster a work environment that attracts and retains talent while supporting productivity.

Tailoring office design.

The Leeds study underscores that no single office layout will meet all companies’ or individuals’ needs. Organisations should assess their specific requirements when planning office space. Some businesses may benefit from open spaces for team brainstorming, while others may need quiet zones for focused work. Flexibility is vital, as employee preferences and business demands may change.

An adaptable office design aligns with the evolving nature of work, enabling organisations to respond to future changes effectively. By continuously evaluating and updating their workspaces, companies can ensure they remain relevant and supportive of productivity for years to come.

Conclusion

The office remains vital to the modern work experience, supporting productivity through purposeful design, technological integration, and well-being-focused elements. These values underpin the approach at WorkWell offices and help ensure that our member retention is among the best in the industry.

As companies navigate the complexities of hybrid work, investing in flexible, adaptable office spaces can yield significant benefits for employee satisfaction and organisational success. By creating offices prioritising these factors, businesses can better equip themselves for a productive and resilient future.

10 benefits of Co-working Spaces

WorkWell on February 18, 2025

Co-working is revolutionising the ways we work, with it being an advantageous style of work to adopt for professionals and businesses alike. The benefits offered by operating in a co-working space are in abundance, providing a cost-effective, flexible and collaborative space.

Whether you’re looking for an affordable office set-up, a vibrant community or the opportunity to expand your professional network, co-working is a dynamic environment designed to support productivity and innovation.

Here are ten of the key benefits of choosing a co-working space:

  1. Become part of a community

Co-working spaces foster a sense of belonging by unifying individuals from differing industries. This sense of community can help individuals feel a connection in the workplace, bringing joy to their work life.

  • Opportunities to network

Exposure to a community increases networking opportunities exponentially. Community events at WorkWell encourage our members to build on their meaningful professional relationships and professional growth.

  • Access to easily collaborate

Similarly, to be able to network and feel a sense of community, a co-working space creates more opportunities for collaboration. This can apply both internally and internally. Whether it’s brainstorming as a team in the communal space, or teaming up with someone new.

  • A cost-effective office renting solution

Reduce the overall price of renting office space by merging all of the costs into one flat fee! This eliminates the fuss around paying lots of smaller bills, streamlining the payment process into one monthly bill. Additionally, it saves the time needed to set up and monitor finances by doing it all for you.

Rather than being trapped into the rigid 9/5 schedule, members can enjoy the freedom and autonomy to work where and when they want to. These spaces are designed to be accessed on a 24/7 basis, allowing people to create a schedule which fits their lifestyle.

  • Helps to inspire and boost creativity

The dynamic and open design of co-working spaces fosters creativity by providing an environment that is both comfortable and professional. Surrounded by innovation and collaboration, you’ll find it easier to think outside of the box and stay motivated.

  • Access to essential amenities

Co-working is all about making work easier and better for the individual, and the immediate ability to access amenities does just that! Whether it’s hopping onto a solid Wi-Fi, or enjoying a cup of tea, members can rest knowing they have easy access to take the stress out of your day and help you focus on what matters.

  • Provides a legitimate workspace – A professional address and environment 

Establishing credibility is critical in the business world of today, and a co-working space can be more than just a desk for a business. It’ll give businesses a physical professional address which has the option to hire meeting room space, making it easier to impress clients. Opening the door to registering on Google as a business aiding SEO effort.

  • Minimises isolation and loneliness

Those who are free-lance or self-employed will attest that it can get a little bit lonely, that’s where co-working spaces can help! Co-working spaces eliminate the problem by creating a community for members to become a part of, improving the well-being of individuals and making work both fulfilling and enjoyable.

  1. Creating work-life balance

Separating work and home life is essential for maintaining a healthy balance.  A co-working space in particular provides a professional environment outside of the home, separating the two and making it easier for people to make the distinction between work life and home life.

Here at WorkWell, we make achieving a work-life balance effortless. Whether it’s setting up in a co-working space for the day at a dedicated zone, or making use of the Zoom pods – we make sure member have a space that caters to their needs.

If you’re interested in setting yourself up in one of our fantastic co-working spaces in Leeds or Harrogate, don’t hesitate to contact us.

5 signs you’re ready to leave the home office

WorkWell on July 16, 2024

A home office — no more getting up at 6 am, no more commuting, no more traffic jams, no more office politics.

It sounds ideal to most people, but after a while, things can start to change, and one realises that perhaps their having a home office is becoming less and less a good idea. Below are several signs that it’s time to move on and change to a new office environment:

You’re afraid you’re not making a good professional impression.

No matter how much you spruce up your home office, you still may feel uneasy or unprofessional inviting clients to your home to discuss work. Having a professional business address is an important step in building the confidence and success to expand and improve one’s company image.

You’re becoming less productive

In the beginning, you were so excited about being able to work in the relaxed atmosphere of your home; working from the sofa, having the stereo on, being free to take as few or as many breaks as you want. But there comes a time when things get too relaxed and you find yourself getting less and less done each day. This is the time to move on.

You’re feeling lonely

The idea of a quiet space for yourself to get work done sounded ideal initially. But as you get into it, you discover that there was a social aspect to an office that you now miss. Choosing a co-working serviced office space is a perfect remedy for this, as it gives you the chance to work alongside like-minded small business owners. Hey it might even allow you to do some networking.

You can’t achieve a good work-life balance

One advantage of working in an office is that when you finish work, you leave the office behind and get some real downtime at home. When your home is your office, you can never get a real clean break from it, and sooner or later it will start to take over your life, and you’ll find it harder and harder to relax at home.

You’re ready to hire

Business is booming and you need to take on staff to help out. You could allow them to work from their own homes, but in fact working in an office with them allows you to train them more efficiently and build up a closer working relationship. An office space with more people in also becomes a stronger ideas zone.

Are you currently working from home? Perhaps you’re already experiencing some or all of the above. Let us know your experiences and perhaps WorkWell can offer the solution you need.

Questions to ask before you begin co-working : What exactly do I get?!

WorkWell on July 16, 2024

Hot desking FAQs: What exactly is included?

You’ve heard of it, your friends are enthusiastically raving about it, you fancy trying it but you’re unsure what exactly co-working  and hot-desking are. Put simply, it is a style of work which involves working in a shared environment. The shared office space is typically an office which comprises of independent activity and unlike a ‘conventional’ office, those working are not typically employed by the same organisation.

Okay, so you get the general gist of this modern working phenomenon, but you want to know what exactly is involved when you settle down to work.

Fortunately help is at hand. In order for you to comprehensively understanding what flexible office space entails take a look at our following guide to what exactly is included when you take the plunge into the increasingly popular world of co-working.

A desk

The most basic element of a hot-desking package includes the member getting his or her own desk. As Forbes writes: “People don’t want to work in tiny cubicles anymore.”

Instead of jostling for room in a coffee shop, co-workers get their own workstation that gives them ample room to spread out and make the most of their individual working space.

Office furniture

Of course, you can’t have a desk without a chair to sit on! Co-working centres do, of course, provide members with a chair. Unlike many ‘conventional’ offices, which are not well known for providing employees with the most comfortable of furniture, many of the higher-end co-working centres, such as WorkWell, stock only the highest quality of office furniture.

The Internet

The internet has single-handedly provided people with new ways of working. With the World Wide Web spurning remote working initiatives and improved access to business applications, it stands to reason that the internet is an imperative feature of co-working offices.

For the remote worker, having access to quick Wi-Fi can make their working day considerably more productive. Consequently, co-working centres make ultra-rapid Wi-Fi an inherent part of their co-working packages.

On-site IT support

When you are working independently, if you are not what you’d consider to be something of an IT whizz, a breakdown in telecommunication can be catastrophic. This is when co-working centres, which have IT support at the ready, can prove invaluable.

Aside from ultra-quick Wi-Fi, many of the higher-quality co-working centres, such as  WorkWell, include onsite IT support. If your equipment or data fails you, all is not necessarily lost.

As Liz Elam, founder of LinkCoworking, told Forbes:

“Entrepreneurs who are trying to work out of their home struggle with isolation. Co-working allows them to have a built-in support system – and that in itself is priceless.”

Refreshments

How many times have you gone downstairs to make a much-needed cup of tea when working from home, only to find there are no teabags left! As the Huffington Post writes, having a constant flow of information can make you understandably agitated. Workers are encouraged to take regular breaks away from their computers in order to reduce stress levels and improve productivity.

In fact, apps are now even available, such as Google Chrome’s Take A Break, in which a small icon flashes every 15 minutes as a reminder for you to stop surfing and go and have a drink.

Though we have to admit, going to make a drink only to find there is no tea or coffee available will not do our anxiety levels any favours.

In shared offices, this less than favourable scenario is unlikely to occur. As the likes of WorkWell co-working offices always have a well-stocked kitchen. At WorkWell you can even forget about cheap instant coffee as our co-workers have the luxury of being able to have as much freshly brewed coffee as they want in a day!

Temperature control

There have been numerous studies carried out to determine the impact the air temperature of an office has on employee productivity. It is widely agreed that an optimal office temperature should be between 21 and 23 degrees Celsius.

Regulating the temperature in a homeworking environment so that it’s warm in the winter and cool in the summer can cost an independent worker a significant sum each year. Most co-working centres include total temperature control, meaning you can enjoy working in the ideal temperature all year round.

And the extras…

Phones

For an additional cost that is not included in the co-working membership packages, co-workers can have their own phone line. Some co-working centres will provide a landline number for your business. This number can be forwarded to your mobile number of to a personalised voicemail.

Meeting rooms

As home offices and coffee shops rarely have enough space to swing a cat let alone invite clients, colleagues or potential clients over for a meeting, many remote working set-ups lack the ‘professionalism’ of an office.

This is where co-working offices can help give you and your business a professional edge. For an additional cost, co-workers can book to use a comfortable meeting room which includes all the latest presentation and conferencing facilities.

When you consider you’ll have access to ultra-rapid Wi-Fi, a built-in support system, top-quality office furniture, year-round temperature control, a potential landline number and a well-facilitated meeting room at your disposal, co-working in Leeds memberships can be a cost-effective way to give your business a boost in the right direction.

Want to try coworking in Leeds or Harrogate? Let us know! Get in touch with me and try us for a week.

4 Compelling Reasons Why All Freelancers Should be in Co-Working

WorkWell on July 16, 2024

Being freelance has its advantages, although, if you’re completely honest, it can be lonely. Sure, you get out to visit clients in a convenient internet café every so often, but that’s not always the most conducive atmosphere for a professional meeting.

As you’ll find by reading this post, renting a co-working space not only combats this feeling of isolation; it offers the self-employed worker many other benefits, without restricting the freedom to come and go as you please.

In order to review how being in a co-working space is preferable to being based in a home office, let’s put it in the context of why over 1.72 million people in the UK    like to run their business this way.

What’s So Good about Freelancing?

The keyword which sums this up is FLEXIBILITY. You’re not tied to clocking in and out, so you can work around your timetable. Supposing you’ve chosen this lifestyle because you’re a parent, as many people have, you don’t have to decide whether to miss your child’s school play or take time off work. You can watch your child’s success, then catch up later in the evening.

What’s Not So Good about Freelancing?

It’s all very well being able to hang the washing out while the sun is shining or visit your elderly relative during the day, but with so many distractions, it can be hard to settle down and concentrate.

You can see a detailed analysis of how co-working is better than working from home here.

With a co-working desk, it can turn the downside around, giving you the best of both worlds.

Four Ways Co-Working Enhances Freelancing

Renting a co-working desk is not a huge investment. The positive aspects often result in increased revenue, which more than covers the cost. There are many other reasons why efficiency is enhanced, and here are four of them;

1. You have to be a special kind of person to keep motivated when working alone all the time. Having access to a co-working space doesn’t mean you have to commit to being there all day, every day. What it does give you is a fully functioning office with flexibility when you need it, plus an opportunity to interact with others in a similar position.

2. Sometimes you need to get out of the house to concentrate. A desk in a quiet, professional working environment with super-fast wifi and easily available tea and coffee (as opposed to a noisy internet café where you may have to waste time in a queue for twenty minutes) means you can be productive in no time at all.

3. Your credibility rating is raised in an instant with a professional meeting space to meet clients and an address to put on your website, which isn’t in a residential area. Increasing your credibility can lead you to more valuable customers.

4. Networking is a vital aspect of successful freelancing. By carefully choosing the right location, you can find yourself next to individuals offering services which are complementary to yours. The opportunity to provide collaborative packages to prospects is another way you can increase your income stream.

Realistically, there aren’t currently enough co-working spaces available in the UK for almost two million freelancers, so it might be wise to start looking into it now. If you’re beginning to think it’s the right move for your business, why not try a free week’s trial at WorkWell? There’s no obligation, but you might find it’s something you can’t live without.

What Are the Alternatives to Coworking?

WorkWell on July 16, 2024

Many people find co-working is an ideal set-up for their working practices. However, as with anything in life, it doesn’t suit everyone. To help you determine what’s best for your current situation, this post looks at the alternatives to coworking.

Which Office Space Will Work Best for You?

Looking at the different types of set up in turn, let’s start with the simplest choice, through to full-service offices.

1. A Registered Office

The most basic package is to opt for a registered office. This gives you an address to put on your website, giving you the appearance of working from a business park, raising the image of your company. It also has the advantage of peace of mind, in that your private home address is not advertised as your place of work on the internet.

2. Virtual Office Space for the Home Worker

Working from home has its advantages and disadvantages, many of which were discussed in more depth in a previous post.

On balance, you might feel you are a person who is more productive without the presence of others around you.

However, there will be times when meetings with clients in professional surroundings are essential.  A virtual hub gives you access to hiring private meeting rooms by the hour, where you can project a proficient image undisturbed, when required.

Other additional facilities are available, such as receiving post and taking messages by phone. Ask your office provider which of their services will help you run your business more smoothly.

3. Virtual Office Space for Larger Companies

Some larger companies have leased offices to carry out their daily business, but need a prestigious address and a place to hold meetings.

Take the law firm that prefers its solicitors to hold sensitive client phone calls behind closed doors, at their leased offices. There, they also have their own space where they need to archive a lot of material.  For this firm, an additional virtual office provides essential services they can dip into – mainly the address and hire of meeting rooms – whilst maintaining costs by running a physical office elsewhere.

4. Co-Working Desks

In terms of a company’s progression, the option of co-working often follows renting a virtual desk.  So this point has been mentioned for you to see where it fits in with the alternatives.  For an overview of what co-working entails, download your free copy of The Co-working Starter Pack.

If you are looking for a co-working space in Leeds or Harrogate, WorkWell is one place which offers a range of flexible packages which can be tailored to suit your needs.

One person who has found co-working to be advantageous is Terry Horne, MD of Avalon Media Services. He says:

“The business outgrew the previous premises. There’s everything we need here – reception, private meeting rooms and relaxed areas. Potential clients are impressed and don’t know it’s not yours!”

5. Serviced Offices

The next step up is renting a serviced office. Once a company reaches a certain size and has several personnel, it would be fair to say that it has outgrown the co-working model.  As there is now a critical mass of people working in it, the desire to be around other professionals is fulfilled internally.

A serviced office, as opposed to leasing one, still provides you with a range of facilities, such as a reception service and ongoing maintenance. Bear in mind that these will save you time and aggravation, as well as cost.

If you have two employees, including yourself, you may be at an interim stage. That covers a progressive range of alternatives to co-working, so hopefully you will have a clearer idea of what your organisation needs.  If you’re still not sure, come in to WorkWell for a chat. We’ll talk through your situation and help you work out what is going to be the right option for you.