11 Things to Consider When Choosing a Coworking Space for Freelancers

Not all coworking spaces for freelancers are exactly the same, and each comes with its own features that need to be evaluated carefully. In addition, you might have specific preferences or standards for a coworking space, so it’s important to find the right space to match those needs.

We’ve put together a guide on how to choose a coworking space, including a few factors and features to consider in your search.

#1. Location

One of the first things to consider when you’re trying to choose a coworking space is location. Long commutes can be exhausting, but having no commute can make it difficult to separate work life from home life, so it is essential to find a coworking space a comfortable distance away.

Location is not just about commuting, it’s also about the neighborhood. Be sure to choose a coworking space in a neighborhood in which you feel safe and comfortable. Another thing to consider, if relevant to your work, is proximity to clients.

#2. Infrastructure

Infrastructure is another important consideration when choosing a coworking space. Parking spots, accessibility to clients, and easy accessibility to the rest of the district (including places like grocery stores, parks, and restaurants) are factors that might influence your choice.

#3. Cost

Staying within your budget is an important consideration when choosing a coworking space for yourself. Monthly costs for desk space vary depending on what kind of space you need to work. You can save yourself some cash by choosing to share a desk with other freelancers. However, if you are willing to spend extra every month, you can get a private dedicated desk with nicer amenities.

#4. Flexibility and Membership

Membership options are also essential to consider, as well as whether or not certain types of memberships will give access to other locations. It could give you a fresh perspective and be more productive. If you want to have the flexibility of working sporadically without wasting money, you should try to calculate the rental rate for shorter terms based on how often you intend to use the space to check if it is cost-effective even when using it sporadically. However, if you plan to come in more often, finding a coworking space that offers monthly and yearly membership options like 620 N LaSalle in River North, Chicago might be a better fit.

#5. Types of Coworking Spaces Offered

You will find different shared office spaces in most coworking spaces for freelancers. A hot desk (or shared desk) is a great solution for those who need sporadic access to the office space and can carry everything for a work day, such as their files and laptop, with them. Shared desks are available on a first-come-first-serve basis. Meanwhile, a fixed desk (or dedicated desk) guarantees that you will have your favorite spot anytime and typically comes with some storage facilities so you can keep your work essentials safely in your shared office.

#6. Meeting Rooms

Depending on your business, you may need access to a shared office in an open space, a private office space, meeting rooms, or a mix of the above. If you have frequent meetings and video calls with clients and business partners, it may be best to choose a freelance office space that offers meeting space for rent on an as-needed basis.

#7. Working Hours

Some coworking spaces offer 24/7 building and amenities access to freelancers, while others have restricted hours of use.

#8. Amenities

You should consider the amenities available at the coworking space and which ones appeal to you. Lounge areas, outdoor workspaces or seating, free coffee, conference rooms, fitness facilities, kitchens, printing services, and even nap rooms are all possible amenities offered in some coworking spaces. Some premium amenities might include an additional charge, but if you are planning to spend time there long-term, it might be worth it to have these little luxuries.

#9. High-Speed Internet

Highly performing internet is an absolute necessity in an office space for freelancers, especially in a shared office where several people may need access at the same time. Whether you are on a video call, downloading important files, or performing other tasks, a failing internet connection is not an option when you are working remotely.

#10. Office Environment

Being comfortable in your office space can help you be more productive. Therefore, when checking a potential office space for a freelancer, do not neglect to take notes on the office environment, such as room lighting, temperature, air moisture, and noise levels, to ensure that the shared office you are considering is a good fit.

#11. Aesthetic Atmosphere

The way the shared office space you are considering looks is as important as the way it feels. It will be easier to be productive in an environment that you find inspiring and stimulating than in a set-up that makes you feel uncomfortable and does not fit your aesthetics. Not to mention that it is a lot easier to wake up motivated.

Conclusion

It’s important to find the right coworking space for you. So if you're looking for coworking spaces to rent in River North, Chicago, look no further than 620 N LaSalle, the perfect space for your freelance work: we offer all the amenities you need for a productive work day and offer different types of coworking spaces for freelancers, from flexible desks in a shared office to meeting spaces and private office spaces. Contact us today!