Venturing into coworking in Berkeley isn’t just about finding a spot to plug in your laptop—it’s about immersing yourself in a setting that perfectly melds structure with the flexibility you crave to unleash both creativity and productivity. Positioned in the heart of the Bay Area’s bustling tech and startup ecosystem, Berkeley is not just a locale; it’s a launchpad for innovation, collaboration, and expansive professional growth.
There are a burgeoning number of spaces offering coworking in Berkeley, each offering unique vibes and facilities. Choosing the right one can significantly enhance your working experience. We caught up with Stephanie Bricker, Managing Director at NextSpace Berkeley powered by Pacific Workplaces to get the insider scoop on how to go about selecting the right space for coworking in Berkeley, maximizing the shared space benefits, and how these hubs bolster local students and burgeoning entrepreneurs.
Professional Diversity
While many of these coworking offerings are renowned for fostering strong professional networks, larger ones often become tech-centric. However, diversity is the spice of life for coworking! At NextSpace Berkeley, you’ll find a vibrant mosaic of tech mavens, freelancers, digital creatives, sound engineers, and community organizations. Bricker notes, “We pride ourselves on hosting a diverse ecosystem of businesses. It’s enticing to be at the forefront of AI or tech; however, our strength lies in our variety.”
Community-focused Coworking
If a simple desk and Wi-Fi are what you’re after, any coffee shop might suffice. But if you’re yearning for a dynamic and supportive community, then diving into the coworking scene in Berkeley could be your best move. NextSpace Berkeley isn’t just about space; it’s about community. With its airy, art-filled interiors and natural light, the space offers various seating arrangements—from an innovative meeting room inside an old bank vault to more laid-back zones—all fostering a communal and engaging work atmosphere. “The NextSpace Effect—a blend of serendipity and collaboration—is palpable here,” adds Bricker. “The communal vibe enriches all businesses housed within.”
Moreover, it’s not only about having a desk and internet access; it’s about being part of a community of professionals from all walks of life, contributing to a mutually supportive environment. Bricker appreciates how members welcome newcomers: “Our community thrives on friendliness; members actively welcome and engage with new faces, expanding their networks.”
Location, Location, Location
Finding a coworking location that is easy to get to and has transit access nearby isn’t always easy. If your coworking membership is across town or requires a long commute, you may find that you don’t use it. If your space is conveniently located and close to transit hubs, however, you’ll likely use the space regularly.
NextSpace Berkeley is near the downtown Berkeley BART stop and on popular bus routes, including the AC Transit. Many of the members use transit to get to their coworking as it’s easy to get to, even if they commute from San Francisco.
The space is also across the street from Berkeley City College and down the street from UC Berkeley. It’s in a high-traffic area and provides easy access to businesses in the area.
Amenity-Rich Environment
When scouting for coworking in Berkeley, consider the proximity to essential amenities—restaurants, pubs, parks, libraries, coffee shops, yoga studios, and gyms. Surrounding yourself with these facilities not only injects energy into your workday but also offers plentiful networking opportunities and leisure breaks to rejuvenate. Key amenities to look for in coworking include:
- Varied Seating Options: Dynamic spaces that cater to different needs—be it collaborating, taking calls, or unwinding.
- Round-the-Clock Access: Adapt your work hours to fit your lifestyle, with 24/7 access to the facilities.
- Meeting Rooms: Equipped with modern technology for hassle-free bookings and seamless presentations.
- Cutting-Edge Tech: High-speed internet and modern tools like Zoom Rooms enhance connectivity and efficiency.
- Virtual Office Benefits: Ideal for those needing a prestigious address and access to office facilities without the overhead.
- Dedicated Support Staff: Always on hand to ensure your workday runs smoothly.
Pro-tip: Phone booths! It may seem like a small thing, but having phone booths for making private calls is a true perk for any coworking hub in Berkeley.
Partnerships with Surrounding Businesses
NextSpace Berkeley partners with neighboring businesses and organizations, which offer special discounts for NextSpace members. They also support entrepreneurship among students and recent graduates. As Bricker says, “We’re trying to foster more entrepreneurship within the schools by giving students workspaces to develop their businesses and ideas and translate them into tangible businesses instead of general concepts.”
Room to Grow
Coworking isn’t just about starting small; it’s about growing as needed. NextSpace Berkeley offers a range of membership options to scale with your needs—from dedicated desks and shared offices to private office setups. Additionally, the partnership with local businesses and support for student entrepreneurship marks NextSpace as more than just a workspace provider, but also a community builder.
Find coworking that feels comfortable, welcoming, and inspires you to engage. When you do, you’ll find yourself doing your best work. Schedule a tour to learn more about our NextSpace Berkeley community.