Thanks to distractions and limited resources, working from home can be tough, which is why many freelancers head to their local coffee shop to concentrate, use the free Wi-fi and inhale copious amounts of caffeine. But with noisy patrons and the amount of independent workers growing by the second, this situation isn’t ideal, which is why the business world has come up with a solution: co-working. This buzzword refers to like-minded individuals coming together in one communal space to work, network and collaborate, and the trend is growing worldwide. Sound like just the thing you need? Find a co-working hub in your city and get to it!
1 Work & Co
Where: Touchstone House, 7 Bree St, Cape Town
What: Four storeys of A-grade office space designed by interior guru Andrea Graff.
Why we love it: Work & Co is one of the slickest co-working hubs we’ve seen to date, with an emphasis on technology, community and networking. Think high-speed fibre internet, Apple TV, IT support, fingerprint access and UIP (uninterrupted power supply) in the event of load-shedding. Situated on one of Cape Town’s must happening streets, it’s in a prime location and has myCiTi bus routes nearby. Visit workandco.co.za for more.
2 Nomads & Co
Where:87th Ave, Parktown North, Joburg
What: A typical Joburg suburban house that’s been converted into a minimalist, Scandinavian-style space by Studio 19’s Mia Widlake.
Why we love it: Nomad & Co’s minimalist interior provides the perfect working atmosphere, and we love its convenient location plus perks like its own stationery shop, reference library and access to a fully-equipped kitchen. Visit nomadsandco.co.za for more.
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3 Smart Space
Where:320 Pixley Kaseme St, Durban
What: Arguably one of the continent’s biggest co-working and networking hubs at around 1 420m2m2, this place’s motto is ‘co-work and co-play’.
Why we love it: Smart Space’s team of professionals host workshops and classes on various subjects related to entrepreneurship and innovation, and also offer mentorship opportunities. Located in the city centre, it’s easy to find and claims to have Durban’s finest coffee. Visit smartspace.durban for more.
Prefer to work from the comforts of your own home? Here’s everything you need to know before making the decision.
