In today’s dynamic digital age, remote working is not just a rising trend; it’s an evolution in work-style that provides flexibility, comfort, and often, increased productivity. However, maintaining a high level of productivity while working outside the confines of a traditional office requires the right setting.
Discover the power of your environment with our curated list of the 13 top remote workspaces. Whether you’re a seasoned remote worker or just dipping your toes into the work-from-home waters, these locations are sure to unleash your creativeness, focus, and efficiency. Let’s explore these productivity-boosting sanctuaries.
Top Remote Work Spaces to Boost Your Productivity
1. Home Office
Establishing a dedicated home office, whether it’s a separate room or a thoughtfully arranged space, can significantly enhance your productivity. This delineation creates an environment that is conducive for work and discourages distractions, contributing significantly to an individual’s professional performance.
The home office serves as a physical representation of one’s professional life within the home environment, actively reinforcing the division between professional and personal life activities. This means that your personal life, with all its intrusions, doesn’t bleed over into your work life, ensuring that your work efficiency is not compromised.
Having a dedicated home office encourages discipline and organization. When you physically move into a dedicated workspace, it mentally signals the start of your work day, creating an association between the space and the act of working. Similarly, leaving the space can help signify the end of your work day, helping maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Moreover, a home office can be optimized within your specific workflow in mind. For instance, you can arrange your workspace to be efficient for your daily tasks, thus reducing time and energy wasted. Having all necessary work-related materials in one place will reduce the occurrences of misplaced items or unnecessary breaks searching for tools you need.
Being in a space that is dedicated to working can also lead to increased focus by reducing potential distractions. Without the distractions and interruptions of a household environment, you are more likely to be able to achieve a mindset that is conducive to productivity. Over time, this arrangement can lead to qualitative improvements in your work, giving you a higher level of satisfaction and fulfillment at the end of the day.
The design and layout of the home office can also influence productivity. For example, natural lighting has been associated with improved mood, reduced fatigue, and less eye strain. Personalizing the space with motivating elements or decor that stimulates creativity can also encourage a positive working environment.
2. Co-Working Spaces
Co-working spaces like WeWork have revolutionized the way we perceive and approach office work. These shared workspaces are not just desks and chairs. They offer a well-equipped, professional environment where entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small businesses can co-exist, network, and collaborate while performing their individual tasks.
In these innovative and dynamic spaces, professionals can network with individuals from different industries and backgrounds while working, which offers a platform for the exchange of ideas, collaboration, and often leads to the generation of innovative solutions.
Spaces like WeWork go the extra mile in ensuring that they provide all necessary facilities to their members. Cutting-edge technological infrastructure, plush, ergonomic furniture, dedicated workstations, private meeting rooms, as well as shared amenities like fully stocked pantries, coffee stations, recreational zones, and more. They ensure that the workspace is not only conducive to work but also makes work exciting and enjoyable.
Furthermore, these shared spaces often host workshops, speaker sessions, and social events, providing a vital platform for networking and personal growth. It forms a vibrant community in which the professionals can thrive, helping to foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork and allowing the members to feel more connected, thus cultivating a healthy, productive working environment.
WeWork, for instance, being one of the leading providers in this arena, is renowned for its well-structured and dedicated workspace offerings. It provides a wide array of options, ranging from hot desking or flexible workspace options to dedicated desks or even private offices. This means that regardless of the size of your business or the nature of your work, you can find a space that best suits your needs.
Simultaneously, these workspaces can also offer additional services such as legal advice, support in business development, and access to investors, further eliminating many of the hurdles that most entrepreneurs or start-ups frequently encounter.
3. Local Libraries
Libraries, often an underutilized community resource, offer numerous amenities to their patrons such as quiet surroundings, free internet access, and a treasure trove of countless resources. These institutions act as a safe haven for those who are in search of a serene, tranquil environment where they can divert their full concentration towards their work, studies, or leisurely reading.
Libraries are designed specifically to be a noise-free zone. This means you’re free from the usual distractions found at home or in coffee shops such as loud chatter, television noise, or road traffic. This solitude can help increase productivity levels, as well as enhance cognitive abilities and creativity for some.
In our technologically driven world, internet access is more crucial than ever. Libraries understand this necessity and cater to it by providing free internet access. With this, patrons can harness the power of global connectivity to research information, apply for jobs, complete school projects, or get lost in a novel from an e-reader.
Moreover, libraries are treasure troves that house a plethora of materials – classic and contemporary books, magazines, newspapers, audiobooks, and even movies. These resources are not only useful for academic purposes but also help in cultivating hobbies, interests, and a lifetime of learning.
What’s more, libraries offer more than just physical resources. Many have various community programs, like adult education classes, workshops, book clubs, and children’s reading programs. Besides, they provide access to online databases, academic journals, and historical archives that might not be publicly accessible elsewhere.
4. Coffee Shops
Coffee shops have consistently been a favored hotspot among freelancers for a variety of reasons. The core reason lies in their unique ambiance – they offer a cross-between a relaxed yet dynamic environment. These establishments often find themselves brimming with chatter, background music, and the familiar hum of activity – a stark contrast to a monotonous office setting or a silent home environment.
In such an atmosphere, the freelance worker thrives as the nature of these sounds and sights instigates curiosity and inspiration, driving creative thinking and problem-solving. The liveliness fosters a sense of community where individuals hunched over keyboards or sketchbooks share a mutual understanding; akin to silent networking, where words are not exchanged but acknowledgment is non verbally communicated.
With the advent of wifi technology, coffee shops have smartly evolved into unofficial co-working spaces, offering reliable high-speed internet, usually free or for a minimal fee. This has greatly amplified the freelancer’s ability to take their office wherever they go, thereby cutting down on traditional office space expenses and dramatically enhancing their flexibility.
Moreover, it’s impossible to overlook the widespread appealing fragrance of coffee beans being roasted and brewed fresh within these spaces. The resulting beverages—coffee—are not just thirst quenchers or warm companions but a force that drives mental alertness and energy to freelancers. Consuming caffeine in these aromatic brews helps facilitate focus and productivity through its ability to fend off drowsiness and fatigue—a freelancer’s two major foes.
The combination of a creative ambiance, dependable wifi connectivity, and the availability of coffee culminates into an ideal workspace for a freelancer. Understanding their symbiotic relationship with their working patrons, cafe owners, in turn, serve a diverse range of refreshments and snacks to keep the energy tanks of freelancers perpetually fuelled, often from early morning until late in the night.
5. Public Parks
Public parks serve as an ideal haven for those who thrive in the tranquility of nature and don’t necessarily require the internet to carry out their day-to-day tasks. These open spaces present an environment that is both motivating and peaceful, making it an ideal spot to focus on creative endeavors.
For individuals who hold a great affinity for the raw touch of fresh air, the gentle rustling of leaves, the sweet melody of chirping birds, and the occasional sight of small creatures in their natural habitat, public parks are indeed an enticing backdrop. The calm, serene settings can often stimulate the mind, helping creative thoughts to flow and even catalyzing breakthroughs in their individual projects.
Notably, in the modern world where technology governs most of our lives, majority of our work relies heavily on the internet. However, for individuals who don’t necessarily need to stay connected constantly, public parks can be a sanctuary where they can escape from digital distractions. These digital-free zones are perfect spaces to work on myriad projects including writing, sketching, painting or even brainstorming and ideating.
Furthermore, the natural beauty and harmony of parks breed inspiration and foster an ambiance of relaxation that helps manage stress levels. Being away from the noise and bustling of the urban life, one can find time and space to reflect, generate fresh ideas, and concentrate silently on their assignments or tasks.
Plus, the opportunity to observe people and their behavior can often provide subtle cues and insights for creative projects. Therefore, public parks not only offer pure enjoyment and relaxation but also work as an open air office for those individuals who seek a blend of productivity and tranquility, far from the confines of a regular office or the pressure of constant internet connectivity.
6. Hotel Lobbies
Offering comfortable seating arrangements ranging from plush sofas to ergonomic chairs, punctuated with strategically positioned power outlets, hotel lobbies have begun to emerge as ideal workspaces. Their great ambiance, often characterized by minimalist design elements, tastefully chosen lighting, and soft instrumental music wafting through the air, can amazingly stimulate the senses, enhancing productivity levels for those seeking to get work done.
Moreover, hotel lobbies usually present the advantage of complete accessibility day and night, seven days a week, perfect for workaholics or for jet-lagged travelers who find inspiration at odd hours.
Another essential attribute is the availability of free high-speed Wi-Fi, providing uninterrupted connection to the internet. These reliable web services enable workers to conduct virtual meetings, send out imperative emails, or even just browse for work-related ideas and information.
Conveniently located refreshment stations are also endowed in many hotel lobbies, with facilities such as coffee makers and snack bars, allowing patrons to grab a quick bite or sip on a steaming cup of invigorating coffee, without needing to leave their workspace.
Moreover, hotel lobbies usually offer the peace and quiet one needs while working, maintaining a subtle hum of activity that fosters concentration rather than disruption. Quiet zones, partitioned spaces, and even soundproofed areas are now features in many venues.
Extra services like printing, scanning, and courier services, are also offered by many luxurious hotels around the clock, making it possible for guests to complete all work-related tasks without stepping out of the premise.
7. Rentable Office Spaces
Services such as Regus provide highly state-of-the-art, fully equipped office spaces available for rent on an as-needed basis, whether that might be for a single day or for an extended monthly period. These fully-functional, well-appointed office environments are ideal for professionals across sectors who require a dedicated, professional, and private working space away from the distractions presented by home offices or bustling coffee shops.
In contrast to the commitment and overheads involved with traditional commercial leases, these flexible office rentals are particularly advantageous to freelancers, startups, small businesses, and even multinational corporations who are looking for temporary spaces or who don’t wish to commit to a long-term agreement.
The offices provided by Regus and similar rental services are typically outfitted with the full range of necessary furniture and cutting-edge technology, including but not limited to comfortable workstations, high-speed internet connectivity, meeting and conference rooms, breakout spaces, and sometimes even onsite catering options. Not only does this save tenants the hassle and expenditure of setting up a workspace from scratch, but it also allows them to operate at peak efficiency from day one of their rental period.
These serviced offices also offer considerable added value in the form of reception services, maintenance and cleaning, security, and access to networking events amongst other perks. Lastly, these spaces often boast prestigious addresses, giving tenants the benefit of operating from a credible and reputable business location.
8. Virtual Offices
Virtual offices are an innovative solution for modern businesses that leverage the power of technology to provide all essential office functions online. This unique concept allows businesses and entrepreneurs to maintain a professional image by having a business mailing address, telephone answering services, video conferencing facilities, and more – all without the need for any physical occupancy or expenses of a traditional workplace.
In essence, virtual offices create a robust platform that replicates physical office facilities in a digital environment. For instance, you may have a prestigious, prime location business address in a bustling city without actually renting the space. This feature aids in establishing credibility among clients and helps in brand positioning.
Moreover, an automated call answering service ensures professionalism, as all incoming calls are attended promptly, messages are taken and transferred as per instructions or as and when required. This, in turn, provides a seamless communication channel, which is vital for any successful business operation.
Additional services often extend to mail and package handling as well. This involves all mail and deliveries being received and sorted by a dedicated team on behalf of the company. These can be held for pick-up, or forwarded to a specified address, which can be incredibly convenient for businesses.
Virtual offices also typically provide access to physical meeting space, which can be rented on an as-needed basis. This allows businesses to conduct face-to-face meetings, despite operating virtually.
The flexibility and cost-effectiveness of a virtual office make it an ideal choice for startups, small businesses, freelancers, or any businesses with a remote workforce. They ensure that the business’s professional image is maintained, productivity is enhanced, and operations remain seamless without any geographical constraints.
In the digitally-driven, post-pandemic world, these dynamic virtual offices present themselves as a future-forward, sustainable, and practical solution that redefines the traditional office environment. They ensure that a corporate presence can be felt everywhere, no matter where the individuals behind it are located.
9. Coworkation Spots
Places like Outsite and Roam have emerged as industry leaders providing co-living and coworking spaces specifically designed to cater to the needs of digital nomads, who work remotely while travelling the world. These innovative platforms not only offer a place to stay and to work but also create opportunities for networking, enhancing productivity, and relaxation.
Outsite and Roam have effectively redefined traditional concepts of living and working. Their infrastructure is built around catering to the lifestyle of the 21st-century digital worker. They offer fully-furnished collaborative spaces equipped with all the technological needs an average digital worker would require, ensuring productivity is never compromised.
In addition, these co-living and coworking spaces are also designed to foster a sense of community among the digital nomads. By offering community events and networking opportunities, they enable individuals to interact, exchange ideas, collaborate on projects, and potentially form invaluable professional relationships. This communal aspect enriches the overall experience and helps digital nomads feel less isolated in their work ventures.
Furthermore, while these spaces ensure productivity, they also place a strong emphasis on relaxation and downtime – a factor often overlooked in traditional work models. They offer accessible amenities such as common lounges, recreational and wellness facilities, often situated in locations that provide easy access to local attractions and adventure activities.
10. Shared Studios
In today’s modern creative landscape, studios that feature shared workspaces are becoming exceedingly popular options for artists, designers, and writers alike. This trend is ideally supportive for these professions since these workspaces provide an environment that actively nurtures and fosters creativity.
Shared studios offer not only ample space to work, but also a wealth of resources that tempt the creative mind. They are typically outfitted with essential amenities like dedicated work desks, lightning-fast internet, sleek meeting rooms, and spaces specifically engineered for brainstorming. Many also feature areas to relax, facilitating the free flow of ideas. These stand as tangible examples of how these shared spaces establish an ecosystem where creativity thrives.
Moreover, the idea of working in isolation does not resonate well with many creative professionals. The constant exchange of ideas that happens in co-working studios results in a network of like-minded individuals working in close quarters, each bringing unique perspectives to the table. This opens doors for spontaneous collaborations, feedback exchanges, and pulse checks on ongoing trends.
The continued exposure to diverse thoughts, innovations, and unique working styles found in these shared studios inspires individuals to push beyond their creative boundaries. It also helps in maintaining motivation, provides possibilities for honing one’s craft, and presents opportunities to collaborate on joint ventures.
In addition, shared studios are often located in vibrant, bustling neighborhoods that are easily accessible and surrounded by art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and other cultural hotspots. This ensures that studio members are always within striking distance of inspiration.
11. Membership Clubs
Locations such as Soho House provide innovative co-working spaces that blend creative work environments with the luxuries of a modern club ambiance. Their unique concept is designed for progressive professionals in various sectors who are seeking more than just a typical office space, but also a place where they can cultivate valuable connections.
Soho House brings various industry leaders and ambitious professionals under a single roof, creating an atmosphere exuding unique dynamism and encouraging productive networking. Unlike traditional office spaces that only focus on work, this place integrates industry-grade amenities and services within its workspace, encompassing plush seating areas to coffee bars, making the process of networking spontaneous, exciting, and less forced.
Following an elegant and luxuriously cozy club-style design, the aim here is to foster immediate camaraderie and stimulate conversation. It isn’t merely a shared office; it’s a thriving hub of ideas and collaboration where you can network with industry professionals in a comfortable and inspiring setting. This makes it an excellent venue for inventive freelancers, budding startups, or established companies seeking a fresh perspective or seeking to broaden their professional network.
The genius behind Soho House’s model lies in its distinct club-like atmosphere. The lush comfortable couches, locally sourced culinary delights, fascinating art pieces adorning the walls, and the professional bar with an extensive range of drinks give it an edge over regular co-working spaces, drawing individuals who value both work and a hint of luxury.
12. Garden Shed or Garage
For individuals fortunate enough to have ample space on their property, an underutilized garden shed or idle garage holds immense potential to be repurposed into a dedicated workspace. Contrary to what one might think, such transformations are indeed possible and often easier than anticipated. This could prove to be a game-changer in maintaining a healthy work-life balance, especially for those pursuing remote work or dealing with their careers right from the comfort of their homes.
The advantages of this parallel workspace are many. The primary benefit is the creation of physical and psychological segregation from the usual domestic hubbub. Being in an environment away from the distractions of home life, like laundry that needs to be done, kids vying for attention, or simply the allure of that comfy couch in front of the TV, allows for increased productivity.
This dedicated workspace fosters a distinct ‘work zone’ where creativity and productivity can flourished, unhampered by the constant hum of day-to-day household activity. Furthermore, having a space exclusively designated for work also reinforces the boundary between personal and professional time, one that many struggle to establish while working from home.
Moreover, repurposing a garden shed or garage into a workspace can be a fulfilling project on its own. The process of personalizing this environment with necessary amenities, ergonomic furniture, and inspirational elements can serve to make work more enjoyable and less of a chore.
A garden shed or garage workspace could also potentially add real estate value to your property. So, not only does this initiative help maintain a better work-life balance but it may also prove to be a wise investment in the long term.
13. Recreational Vehicles
If you are lucky enough to own a recreational vehicle (RV), you could be sitting on a surprisingly effective workspace. Dedicated RV owners have a unique advantage, presenting a priceless opportunity to incorporate their mobile abode into their professional life. This ability to work from anywhere – be it a scenic beach, a peaceful forest, or the comfort of your own driveway – can drastically improve your work-life balance and overall productivity.
To begin with, some modern RVs come factory-equipped with mini offices, complete with ergonomic chairs, spacious desks, and ample storage. These spaces are designed to accommodate your professional needs while on the road. Additionally, customizable options are available for those willing to invest in remodeling – turning your RV into a tailor-made office space that fits your every need.
Secondly, with advancements in technology, working remotely has never been more achievable. Many RV parks and campgrounds offer Wi-Fi services, and purchasing portable wireless routers or investing in a strong data plan can ensure you’re virtually always connected. With the advent of 5G, this is only likely to improve, enabling you to join video conferences, send emails, and access cloud-based work files no matter where you’re parked.
Furthermore, changing your workspace from the monotonous four corners of an office or home setup to your RV can provide a fresh perspective and a source of inspiration. Notably, being surrounded by different environments can stoke creativity, increase motivation, and reduce stress levels. Depending on your line of work, this change in surroundings could even provide an opportunity to offer a unique angle or insight into your work.
Unlike traditional offices, RVs also offer zero commuting time and incredible flexibility. No more worrying about navigating rush hour traffic or fitting your life around rigid office hours. With an RV workspace, you can work in bursts, with breaks to explore your surroundings, all while maintaining your professional momentum.
Conclusion
In the world of remote work, selecting the right environment can significantly influence your productivity. With endless possibilities, ranging from tranquil libraries and cozy coffee shops to dynamic coworking spaces or your own tranquil home office, the power to maximize your productivity is in your hands. These top 13 remote workspaces we’ve featured each offer different vibes and unique advantages.
Consider your work requirements, preferred environment, your routine, and find the perfect remote workspace that aligns with your productivity needs. Just remember, the ideal workspace is one that inspires, motivates, and boosts your productivity to levels you never imagined. Ultimately, the right workspace makes your work less of a chore and more of an experience. Choose an appealing workspace that suits you best and welcome a new era of productivity.