The Ultimate Coworking Space Checklist [What to Look for in a Space]

While remote offices and coworking spaces were once a rarity, their popularity has skyrocketed in recent years. As of 2022, there were 13,894 coworking spaces across 172 countries. 

Because of the plethora of choices, finding the right type of coworking space can be difficult. Every business owner has unique business needs, and there are many factors to consider. This is why we’ve created the ultimate coworking space checklist. 

Coworking Space Checklist: 11 Items to Research

Here are the 11 factors to add to your coworking space checklist while researching what to look for in a coworking space.

1. Accessibility

Accessibility is crucial in choosing your coworking space. When looking at potential places, ask yourself:

Are the bathrooms easy to find and use?

Are there stairs and elevators?

Is there an entrance ramp?

Are there enough parking spaces?

Is there enough space for you and your staff to work comfortably?

Are there public transportation options nearby?

2. Amenities

Amenities shouldn’t be considered a bonus but rather a coworking space essential. Even if you have a small budget, you’ll want to make room for the basics of a modern workplace, like office equipment and internet access.

Davinci understands what entrepreneurs need, so we offer:

Building security 

High-speed internet

A live receptionist

Meeting space rentals

Office equipment (printer, copier, etc.)

If your prospects don’t include these, you may want to find a coworking space that does.

3. Collaborative Spaces

Part of the reason many people choose coworking spaces over home-office setups is the opportunity to collaborate with other people. In fact, one study found there’s a 47% increase in collaboration among colleagues who use a coworking space.

Your space should include meeting or conference room rental options so you can have meetings without being interrupted. Those spaces should also be equipped with tools to make meetings run smoothly. 

4. Future Proof

As an entrepreneur, you’re always thinking about the future, and that should apply to your workspace, too. Does the space offer you the amenities and room to potentially expand your business?

When considering the future, you should also assess the coworking company to see if it appears to have the potential for longevity. While nothing is ever certain, you’ll want to partner with a company that shows signs it will be in business for the long term. Visit it a few times and see how many people are there. If the place is always empty, that could be a bad sign.

5. Location

The location of the coworking space is as essential as what’s in the space, especially if you plan to meet clients there. 

Will it be in a busy area that would make it hard to focus? Is it too isolated and, therefore, difficult to get to? As mentioned in the accessibility section, is it easy to reach via public transportation?

You can also maximize the use of your space by strategically choosing a location with businesses nearby, making it easy to run errands or grab food during or after work.

6. Membership Contract Terms

You’ll want to read over your membership contract closely to ensure it benefits you just as much as the coworking space owner.

Your contract terms should clarify how payment is handled, the flexibility of the membership, and the specific spaces you’ll have access to. Also, make sure that the amenities you use are part of your membership and won’t cost extra. 

7. Office Environment 

When reviewing your coworking space checklist, make sure to take a tour of potential places because you’ll want to see what the environment is actually like. Factors like temperature, air quality, lighting, and background noise can affect productivity.  

8. Privacy

While collaboration is important, so is privacy. You want to ensure your coworking space has a quiet area for you to make calls with clients. Additionally, if you’re working with sensitive materials, you’ll want to ensure people won’t be able to walk by and see your work.

Ask the owner if private rooms are available for short periods of time or what the general layout of the space is. 

9. Reviews

Don’t forget reviews as you research coworking spaces. Reviews are a great source of accurate information about the space. 

You can find out whether:

The building is clean

The office equipment works or gets fixed quickly

The owner keeps supplies stocked

There’s enough space to work

There’s enough parking

This information can make choosing a coworking space easier, especially if you’re torn between a few choices. 

10. Schedule Flexibility 

How flexible is the schedule for the coworking space? Is it only open for a certain amount of time, or is it available 24/7? 

Perhaps you work best first thing in the morning, or maybe you’re most productive during off-hours when you can avoid background chatter. Having a coworking space with hours that extend beyond the basic 9–5 means that you and your staff can fit work into a schedule that works best for you. 

11. Security

You’ll want to make sure your laptops and other expensive office equipment are safe while you’re working. There should be no concern that your laptop will be swiped if you leave it unattended to use the restroom or step away to make a quick call. 

When touring each potential space, find out how people are allowed in and out of the offices. Do people need keycards? Is there a security guard who checks ID? Or is anyone allowed in? Is there space to store your valuables securely? These questions are especially important if the place is open day and night.

Davinci Offers the Ultimate Coworking Experience

Davinci offers coworking and meeting locations around the world. We’ve worked with many entrepreneurs and small business owners. We understand that each individual has unique needs for their coworking space essentials. 

Contact us today to learn more about our coworking spaces. 

About Coco Quillen

Coco is the Vice President of Operations at Davinci Meeting Rooms. She manages the strategic development and operational implementation of services for Davinci. She works closely with all teams to ensure customers are well taken care of. Google