The Rise of Coworking Spaces in 2025

Why Traditional Corporate Offices Are Losing Their Appeal

Employee Demands for Flexibility and Hybrid Working Options

Employees today value flexibility over rigidity. The days of fixed desks in soulless office blocks are fading, replaced by hybrid models that allow people to choose how and where they work.

The High Costs of Maintaining Large Office Spaces

Corporate offices often come with hefty overheads, from rent to maintenance. Downsizing to coworking spaces offers businesses a cost-effective way to keep up a professional image without the massive financial burden.

Maintaining a traditional corporate office is not just a logistical challenge—it’s also a significant financial burden. On average, renting and maintaining a large office space in a major city like Manchester can cost a business upwards of £28-45 per square foot, excluding utility and maintenance expenses. For a mid-sized office of 5,000 square feet, this translates to an annual cost exceeding £140,000.

Therefore, coworking spaces offer an affordable AND flexible alternative. Many coworking providers, including Use.Space, offer hot-desking or private office solutions that start at just a fraction of the cost. This cost-efficiency is particularly attractive to SMEs and creative teams who want those professional environments without committing to long-term leases or significant overheads.

Additionally, coworking spaces often include things like:

• Utilities
• High-speed internet
• Meeting rooms
• • more

This bundled offering further reduces the financial complexity and allows businesses to focus on growth rather than worrying about their operational costs.

So… what trends should you be looking out for in 2025? Let’s dive in!

Top Coworking Trends to Watch in 2025

Productivity-boosting Features in Coworking Spaces

Biophilic Design and Its Impact on Mental Well-being

Biophilic design is the practice of incorporating natural elements like plants, natural light, and organic materials into indoor spaces to create a more calming and restorative environment. This design approach has been shown to improve mental wellbeing, reduce stress, and increase productivity.

At Use.Space, biophilic design is a central feature. Our coworking initiative is brimming with lush greenery, from hanging plants to potted trees (and a plant wall!), creating a calming, nature-inspired atmosphere. And let’s not forget our loved life-size rhino sculpture, affectionately serving as our space’s mascot! While it may not be a “natural” addition, it’s a conversation starter and a quirky nod to the creative energy that makes Use.Space unique.

As members of ‘Save The Rhino’ and we want to help save all of these fantastic beasts

Dedicated Focus Zones for Deep Work

Not all work requires collaboration; sometimes, getting into a state of deep focus is needed for completing complex or creative tasks. Coworking spaces like Use.Space acknowledge this by offering purpose-built focus zones designed to minimise distractions.

The environment plays a significant role in enabling deep work. According to research by the University of California, Irvine, it can take an average of 23 minutes and 15 seconds to refocus after being interrupted. This statistic underscores the importance of quiet, dedicated spaces where professionals can fully concentrate without disruptions.

Use.Space’s focus zones are strategically designed to cater to this need, with soundproofing, ergonomic furniture, and calming aesthetics. These zones allow members to work uninterrupted, resulting in higher-quality outputs and reduced mental fatigue—a must for creative teams handling complex projects.

Smart Technology for Seamless Workflows

Smart technology has revolutionised the way we work, and coworking spaces are at the forefront of this change. These technologies streamline daily tasks, making workflows more efficient and reducing the friction associated with traditional office setups.

The advantages of smart technology extend beyond convenience. Research from Deloitte Insights reveals that organisations leveraging smart office technologies report improved employee satisfaction by 62% and enhanced operational efficiency. By adopting these innovations, Use.Space provides an environment where teams can thrive, using tech to save time and foster collaboration.

Switching to a smart coworking space like Use.Space isn’t just about adopting the latest gadgets; it’s about creating an ecosystem where every detail—from connectivity to comfort—works together to support professionals in achieving their goals.

Creativity at the Heart of Co-working Spaces

Inspiring Interiors That Fuel Innovation

Gone are the days of bland cubicles. Modern coworking spaces use creative design to inspire innovative thinking—vibrant colours, open layouts, and quirky furniture set the tone for creativity.

“We joined the Use.Space community this year and we love the familial atmosphere and personal commitment of the team here. There’s plenty of opportunities to network with other companies and the Use.Space team are always on hand to support with anything you need”

– Fenella Dawnay, Executive Producer, The Javaad Alipoor Company

Imagine walking into a workspace where bold artwork adorns the walls, natural light pours in through large windows, and vibrant, comfortable seating invites you to settle in. At Use.Space, this isn’t a dream; it’s the everyday reality. The space is full of quirky touches, like their famous life-size rhino sculpture, that remind you this isn’t just an office—it’s a community that thrives on originality and expression.

Access to Diverse Professionals for Idea Exchange

Shared spaces mean sharing knowledge. Networking with professionals from different industries sparks fresh perspectives and unique collaborations.

Here is a list of just a few of the types of companies that work from Use Space:

• Too Good To Go: Mobile app fighting food waste, use the app to explore shops and restaurants in your local area and save Surprise Bags of surplus food from going to waste at a great price
• NotJustClothing: Creating products that make people smile, NotJust are a registered social enterprise committed to creating ethical and sustainable products that drive positive social impact
• By Gamers For Gamers (BGFG): Digital publishers specialising in all things PC, tech & gaming, a team of experienced, passionate individuals dedicated to bringing their readers the best in PC, tech, gaming & esports
• HSPG: Social impact real estate, investing in new housing to facilitate Shared Ownership and low-cost rental homes for individuals & key workers in communities throughout the UK
• Manchester Metropolitan University: Working with programme leaders and senior lecturers at Manchester Metropolitan University, supporting their initiatives and helping to inspire and develop future generations of talent
• • many, many more! View the full list here.

Events and Workshops That Spark Creativity

Workshops, talks, and networking events are staples of coworking culture, helping members grow professionally and personally.

Here are some events we’ve recently hosted:

• Manchester Founders Funding Group: Practice makes perfect and it is fascinating to see and hear business founders practising their pitches, with the Manchester Founder Funding Group providing constructive feedback and game-changing advice
• The Pitch Manchester Regional Final 2024: Celebrate Manchester’s startup scene, network with investors and watch the region’s top founders compete for a place in The Pitch Final
• The Peer-to-Peer Business Community: With monthly events at Use.Space, this peer-to-peer model allows businesses to tap into unlimited expertise, solve any challenge, and grow their business together with other like-minded individuals

Given our coworking initiative’s emphasis on collaboration, it goes without saying that we have some fabulous partnerships with the likes of Business Growth Hub, Pro Manchester, and of course our wonderful members to make all of these events possible. If you’re looking to hire event space in Manchester, get in touch!

Community as the Core of Coworking

Building Meaningful Relationships in Shared Spaces

Coworking spaces aren’t just about desks—they’re about connections. The chance to build lasting relationships with like-minded professionals is a key draw.

One of the greatest advantages of coworking spaces is the opportunity to connect with others in a way that traditional offices rarely allow. In shared spaces, you’re surrounded by people from different industries, backgrounds, and skillsets—an environment that naturally encourages meaningful engagement.

Whether it’s a casual chat over coffee in the cafe or a chance encounter in a breakout area, these seemingly small moments often lead to valuable connections. The beauty of coworking lies in its ability to bring people together—not just as colleagues but as collaborators, mentors, and even friends.

Networking Opportunities and Collaborative Projects

Coworking spaces are more than just desks and Wi-Fi; they’re vibrant ecosystems where networking and collaboration thrive.

For creative organisations like you, this is an invaluable asset. Instead of being confined to the same team or department, members of coworking spaces can tap into a diverse pool of talent and expertise.

Networking in these spaces often happens naturally. A quick conversation over lunch might lead to discovering someone who can help you solve a core problem, or a chance introduction during a community event might spark a long-lasting collaborative project. Coworking spaces are particularly beneficial for startups and small teams looking to scale, as they offer access to professionals who can provide insights, services, or partnerships.

At Use.Space, collaboration really is at the heart of everything. Regular workshops, networking sessions, and brainstorming meetups give members a platform to share ideas and explore partnerships. These initiatives aren’t just about exchanging business cards—they’re about creating genuine connections that lead to impactful collaborations.

Embrace the Future of Work at Use.Space

Make the Shift to a Co-working Space

Coworking initiatives like Use.Space are redefining productivity, creativity, and community in the workplace. Why settle for the outdated corporate office when the future of work is here?

What we bring to the table:

• A FANTASTIC support ecosystem (and we’re not just saying that)! Our community are constantly collaborating on projects together and there is always someone in Use Space who is able to answer questions about any area of business, and point you in the right direction.
• Central location – 7 minute walk from Piccadilly train station
• Free parking
• Flexible options for teams of 5-10 people, from hot desks to private offices
• Our spaces are tailored for both focus and collaboration
• Dog-friendly (if your dog is friendly!) with nearby parks for any toilet breaks
• Comfortable breakout spaces that prioritise wellbeing & happiness

Ready to see the difference for yourself?

Schedule a tour, learn about membership options, or enquire about availability today.