From state-of-the-art design, access to an abundance of facilities, and endless networking opportunities, these 5 coworking spaces in Vancouver are definitely worth a work visit
Vancouver is rich with freelancers, remote workers and other independent professionals who have made the conscious choice to work outside of the confines of a traditional corporate environment. But while they may enjoy the flexibility tied to escaping the monotony of a mundane nine-to-five, working from home or coffee-shop hopping can sometimes hinder their productivity. Many benefits have been tied to working in shared workspaces—also known as coworking spaces. Not only can professionals enjoy an affordable, fully-stocked office environment where they can come and go as they please, but many coworking spaces invest in building solid communities, uniting like-minded professionals who come from a diverse range of industries in a space where they can learn, connect, collaborate, and socialize. Fortunately for Vancouver’s growing population of independently-working professionals, the metropolis boasts an abundance of coworking spaces. Here are just five of the shared workspaces worthy of a work visit. Click through to see the top 5 picks for coworking spaces in the Metro Vancouver area...
L’Atelier Vancouver, 400-319 West Hastings Street, Vancouver
Conveniently located in Vancouver’s Gastown neighbourhood, L’Atelier offers the perfect coworking space and networking hub for creative entrepreneurs, start-ups and freelancers. It is the city’s newest shared work space, offering dedicated desks, hot desks and flexible membership options for the creative professionals who call their space home. They say creativity is contagious, so if you’re looking for inspiration, this may be the best place for you. Perks: Access to kitchen with free coffee and tea, affordable rates and flexible packages, access to meeting and events spaces, access to photoshoot space, backdrop, and soft box light. Size/Capacity: 3,000 sq. ft.
The HiVE, 210-128 West Hastings Street, Vancouver
The mission of The HiVE coworking space in Vancouver is to support and amplify the social impact sector, hosting businesses who focus on putting people and the planet above profit. The space is bright and open, and their community-first approach makes this coworking space the perfect hub for Vancouver’s changemakers. Perks: Front desk reception services, kitchen and lounge with unlimited coffee and tea, free bike storage, community-building initiatives, access to the Pan-Canadian Social Innovation Passport (coworking hours available to members in Toronto, Ontario, and London spaces), high-speed internet access, and affordable month-by-month options. Size/Capacity: 9,000 sq. ft. / 150 desks
Spacekraft Coworking, #201 – 4501 Kingsway, Burnaby, B.C. (near Metrotown)
Spacekraft Coworking is the perfect place to connect and collaborate with a welcoming community of professionals while building your ‘kraft’ in a thriving environment. The bright open space features quote-adorned walls for added inspiration, and the friendly staff and Spacekraft members will make you feel as though you’re part of a team, even if you’re working independently. Perks: Comprehensive benefits plan available to all members, fast and free internet connection and other IT services, coffee and tea, discounts to prominent events, modern and innovative meeting spaces, a Ping-Pong table, comfy bean bag chairs, and access to a bright and spacious lounge. Size/Capacity: 10,000 sq. ft. / 74 desks / 13 offices
Suite Genius, Kitsilano, 210-1727 West 3rd Ave. & Mount Pleasant, 300-225 West 8th Ave., Vancouver
With two locations in Vancouver’s most highly sought-after neighbourhoods, the Suite Genius coworking spaces provide a convenient alternative for those looking to avoid a dizzying downtown commute. The venues are quaint, featuring chic decor and a casual vibe, and the city-central locations make Suite Genius the perfect destination for a productive and comfortable workday, while only minutes from the hustle and bustle of the downtown core. Perks: Proximity to restaurants, shops and transit, coffee and tea, high-speed internet access, dedicated phone booths for private calls, free days at worldwide coworking locations that are included in an expansive network of partners. Size/Capacity: 6,000 sq. ft.
The Network Hub, Vancouver, New Westminster, Whistler, Nanaimo (Richmond & Calgary locations coming soon)
The Network Hub offers affordable and secure shared office space rentals, which can be booked on a short-term basis (uniquely offering hourly and daily rental rates, contrary to the monthly and annual rates of its competitors). With various locations, including B.C.’s only ski-in ski-out coworking space located in Whistler, this hub of coworking spaces offers something for everyone. Perks: Hourly, short-term and long-term rental options in a variety of locations, access to lounge and kitchen areas, front desk staff, access to over 1,100 coworking offices around the world, access to workshops, seminars and events. Size/Capacity: Various