Brief Biography:
| Arch. Prof. Gergana Dikanska, architect and junior partner at Dikanski & Partners Architectural Studio Ltd. Over the years, she has been involved in designing a variety of projects for the firm given her broad interest ranging from monuments of real architectural heritage to interior designs of single family houses and apartments. She is a graduate of the Department of Interior and Design for Architecture at UASG and is now a full-time PhD student at the same department. |
SHARED WORK SPACES - WE KNOW THEM BY THEIR PEOPLE
| Source: https://ikoverk.com/3-things-to-look-for-when-choosing-a-coworking-space/ |
"How about going to work or attending the betahaus/SOHO/1hub/other event?" This is a question that probably almost every Sofian hears in their day. So-called "coworking spaces" or shared workspaces are gaining popularity due to the variety of opportunities they offer as informal work environments. Did you know that there is even an International Day of Shared Workspaces - the 9th of August.
But actually, where does it all start?
The concept originated in 1999 in the United States based on the need to work in one place driven by the use of computers and new technologies. A few years later, in 2005, the first such place was officially established in San Francisco, and the following year in New York. The idea sparked media interest and within just a few years more than 160 such places were subtly created around the world. Over time, the spaces have evolved, providing not only a place to work, but also a place to relax, a place to organize different types of events, a place for events, seminars, trainings and more.
It doesn't take long for the idea to start developing in Bulgaria. "Betahaus" opened its doors in 2012 and is the first shared space on the territory of our country, part of a network that also has its "representative offices" in Berlin, Barcelona and Hamburg. In the capital we can also find SOHO - Sofia Holistic Coworking Company, 1hub, Coworking Space by Puzl and not only. In Plovdiv "Limacon" is gaining recognition, which also offers a bunch of different opportunities. And in our maritime capital Varna, an example of a shared space is Beehive.
| Source: http://undertheline.net/journal/city/coworking-space-by-puzl/ |
Key features of co-working spaces.
Paying attention to the design of shared spaces, there are a few key elements that are an integral part of the layout. The space is usually located in an old building, until recently left to the vagaries of time. The open plan layout is an advantage, making it flexible as teams and tenants are constantly changing and it's important to be able to reconfigure spaces quickly and easily, from small office areas to rooms for larger events. Key points of reference when choosing equipment are movable walls, tables on wheels, easily stackable chairs.
Providing electrical outlets in convenient locations is typical, as is adequate lighting to provide the necessary light throughout the day. This allows for both individual work areas and the ability to easily and quickly conduct meetings. The difference between regular offices and co-working spaces is that in addition to the glazed spaces, meeting areas could range from a bench on the roof overlooking the mountains, to a garden in the backyard, to a lounge area with barstools.
| Source: http://soho.bg/#spaces |
Another key characteristic that drives the concept of shared spaces is precisely 'sharing', and the best place to do this is in informal conversation around the coffee or beer machine, as well as in the games area - table tennis or foosball are always a good option for attracting new partners, investors or just friends.
| Source: https://limacon.bg/co-working/ |
It's essential that shared spaces create the feeling of a home away from home, and for this reason a good proportion of these offices have hammocks for afternoon naps, a wall with photos of friends, and in some places there are slides for grown-ups between floors. Thus, the combination of work and play contributes to the efficiency and liveliness of the working day of the tenants.
In terms of colour, the contrast of black and white, combined with neutral flooring of polished concrete, stone or wood, and a completely plain ceiling, is most often seen. In an 'add-on' to the overall simple look, one or more colours (green, orange or red, for example) are used to accent distinctive places - in individual details in the furnishings, a pattern on the floor or even a painted wall or photo wallpaper. The ability to write on the walls is a plus in its own right, allowing any wall to become a flat surface for developing a business gutter, for example. Writing on the walls further encourages with winged phrases about success, overcoming difficulties, setting and achieving goals.
| Source: https://escreo.com/ |
Key benefits of co-working spaces.
The main benefits of shared workspaces is the community that is present in these places. Usually, the people or teams that work there are freelancers, entrepreneurs, collectives, start-ups and small teams that take advantage of these "coworking spaces". In the dynamic environment of these places it is easy to share ideas and interests, make new acquaintances and contacts, exchange opinions and often find like-minded people. Another major advantage is the cost of rent. You don't have to rent a whole office, you can rent one workstation. If you need a room, you rent a room. If you need event space, you find it there. If you need training, 100% someone will organize similar in one of the event rooms. Over time, the idea of shared spaces evolved into more than "just" a place to work. There we find a place to relax, a place for kids, a place for pets. Shared living spaces are becoming more and more popular (as described in another BLD article, Co-living - shared housing and spaces in the city). An example of the development is CoWORKING Chepelare, who offer an innovative approach for Bulgaria, following the principle of providing not only a shared space for work, but also one for living and entertainment.
| Source: http://coworkation.4epelare.com/ |
The idea of "sharing" has come a long way since the first shared workspace in 2005. What's in store for the next decade and how far will it go? We look forward to finding out, and why not taking part in the creation.