As shared workspaces continue to grow in popularity, the idea of choosing the right one becomes more important and a bit more tricky. In a city like Singapore, where time and space both come at a premium, picking a coworking space that works for you can make or break your daily productivity.
In this blog, we will walk you through 10 things that matter the most when choosing a coworking setup. If you’re spending hours each week or maybe even every day at one of these spaces, it’s worth knowing what to look out for before you commit.
- Layout That Lets You Breathe and Focus
A good floor plan does more than just look neat. You should feel like you have space to work without constantly adjusting your chair to avoid bumping into someone else. Tables shouldn’t be crammed into every corner. At the same time, it helps to have easy access to communal areas like lounges, booths, or kitchen corners, so you can take breaks without feeling like you’re in someone’s way.
Also, check if there are different zones for different needs. A quiet corner for deep work, casual tables for short meetings, and relaxed spaces to just take a breather. These small layout choices add up when you’re working long hours.
- Internet That Actually Holds Up
There’s nothing worse than a dropped video call or a page that refuses to load when you’re on a deadline. A coworking space in Singapore or anywhere should have strong and stable internet. You shouldn’t have to ask around for the “good spot” with a better signal.
Also, ask if they have a backup line in case of outages. A minor glitch may not matter once or twice, but over time, poor connection will affect your pace. You’ll feel it more than you expect.
- Bright, Open Space with Natural Light
Fluorescent lighting and dark walls may look sleek in photos, but in real life, they can feel draining. A coworking space with big windows or skylights can lift your mood more than you think. Natural lighting is easier on the eyes, especially if you’re looking at screens all day. It can also help you stay alert without always reaching for another coffee.
You don’t need floor-to-ceiling windows everywhere, but a few spots that bring in light can make the space feel a lot more open and breathable.
- Easy-to-book Meeting Rooms
Eventually, you’ll need some privacy. Calls with clients, video meetings with your team, or even focused sessions with your co-founder need quiet space. The best coworking spaces make booking a meeting room fast and painless.
Check how many rooms they have, what sizes they offer, and how far in advance they’re usually booked. If you find yourself scrambling to reserve a room each time you need one, it gets frustrating very quickly.
- Flexible Membership Plans
Work patterns aren’t the same for everyone. Some people are there every weekday, others only pop in a few times a month. Look for spaces that don’t push you into a one-size-fits-all deal.
Hot desks, fixed desks, and private offices should all be available, and switching between them should be simple if your schedule or team size changes. Good spaces will also let you test things out first before locking you into a longer commitment.
- Clean Facilities and Useful Extras
It might sound basic, but cleanliness tells you a lot about how the space is managed. A spotless restroom, a clean kitchen, and a tidy work area aren’t just nice to have, but they directly affect how comfortable you feel during the day.
Also, check for things like stocked pantries, working printers, and coffee machines that aren’t always broken. You shouldn’t need to go to a café just to warm up your lunch or print a document.
- Staff That Are Around and Helpful
Having people on-site who know what they’re doing is a big plus. Maybe you need help with access, a billing question, or just directions to a nearby food spot. A friendly face at the front desk or a community manager who responds can make things easier and save time.
It’s a small thing, but it changes how the whole space feels. You won’t need help every day, but when you do, it should be easy to get it.
- A Healthy Mix of People
Working solo doesn’t have to feel lonely. A well-run coworking space often attracts a mix of freelancers, remote workers, and small businesses. That variety brings a sense of energy and, sometimes, unexpected collaboration.
Some places in Singapore encourage interaction by hosting low-key events, nothing too loud or forced, just a few ways to get to know who else works there. It can help you build connections, bounce off ideas, or simply feel less isolated during a long workday.
- Good Location with Nearby Food and Transport
The space itself is important, but so is what’s around it. If it’s close to MRT stations, bus stops, or walkable areas, that’s a big plus. And don’t underestimate the value of having food options nearby; nobody wants to walk 15 minutes in the heat just to grab lunch.
Also, check if there’s secure bike parking or quick access to ride-hailing pickups. These are small things, but they can save you a lot of hassle over time.
- Basic Security You Can Trust
You should feel safe leaving your laptop while you grab a snack or take a call outside. Access cards monitored entry points, and visible security cameras go a long way in making a space feel secure. Some coworking spaces offer lockable drawers or even private storage, useful if you’re leaving gear overnight.
You probably won’t think much about security until something goes wrong, so it’s better to check for these features from the start.
Conclusion
Work has shifted. It’s no longer tied to one location or rigid office hours. That makes finding a coworking space that fits your style more important than ever. If you’re looking for a coworking space in Singapore, keep your focus on how the space supports your workday, beyond just looking modern.
It’s easy to get caught up in glossy branding or fancy decor. But it’s the everyday stuff, like the working internet, the well-planned layout, the helpful staff, that really matters over time. As more people look for flexible ways to work, the best coworking spaces will be the ones that quietly make things easier without asking for attention.
