While working from home has its creature comforts, many creatives soon find themselves actually losing their creative spark and those big ideas just don’t show up anymore. Getting out of that creative rut can be difficult but often a change of scenery is all you need to get the juices flowing again. That’s why we’ve put together a list of London’s best coworking spaces for creatives and makers.
Working in a creative coworking space, you’ll find yourself engaging with other creative minds, developing new ideas and building great networks.
Many office spaces are targeted specifically towards creatives and makers and provide studio areas, printers, and desk areas that suit more hands-on production work. Whether you’re a designer, writer, stylist or illustrator, there are creative co-working spaces that provide you with the tools and space you need to produce your best work.
A lot of creative work requires intense brainstorming sessions so many co-working spaces offer private office areas and break out zones where you can chat, discuss and muse with your colleagues.
So without further ado, it’s time to get out of your bedroom and into the real world – here are some great co-working spaces for the craftiest of creators.
Anomalous HQ – Islington
Perfect for photographers, small creative businesses and film makers, this unique shared office is located next to a 1000 sq ft studio / gallery / cinema / showroom that you can have access to. Very useful. You can also make use of the private editing suite. And there’s a smoothie maker. With its bright spaces and outdoor courtyard we seriously love this office and we suspect you will too.
Makerversity – Embankment
As the name would suggest, this is a great office space for all makers and craftsfolk. It is located at Somerset House and your monthly rent includes access to their fully equipped workshops where you can saw, sand and turn to your hearts’ content. They also have an event space where you can learn from other crafts people and gain new knowledge and insight into the latest developments in a wide range of crafting fields.
Shed – Shoreditch
Four words: coffee and baked goods. Not only is Shed located near some of the best coffee shops in London, it has its own onsite coffee hatch serving Caravan Coffee and St John Bakery treats. Find us a creative who doesn’t need endless hits of caffeine and sugar.
Not only will you have access to necessary fuel, this fantastic shared office space also has two photography studios, creative breakout areas and music play lists that you can tune into throughout the day.
Protein – Shoreditch
Shoreditch is known as a hub for Apple laptop using, coffee drinking, beard-baring (for the men generally) creative types and Protein is located in the heart of the action. The space would suit those of you who don’t need much space (desk space is limited so there isn’t much room for large cutting tables or model-building workzones) although there is a large event space downstairs. A friendly and sociable vibe is guaranteed and puppies are a ‘most-likely’.
Greenhouse – Highbury
Do you feel like you’d like to get more active and wish you could do yoga in your office? Well now you can! Not only does Greenhouse offer super fast broadband, swipe card access, meeting rooms and an onsite manager, they also run yoga classes in their exhibition/events space. They also have a media lab and you have access to software and apps including AutoCad3D, and Photoshop.
The Artworks – Elephant and Castle
This intimate creative space has just 23 desks so you won’t be distracted by hundreds of other users coming in and out of the office all day. It is bright and airy and is home to a yoga studio, hairdresser, printer and tattoo parlour. There is a courtyard, art gallery and market space where live music and performances are regularly held.
Interchange Triangle – Camden
If working at great heights helps with your creativity then check out Interchange Triangle. Spread over two floors in the heart of Camden Lock Market, you will have panoramic views over London. Plus did we mention it’s in the middle of Camden Lock Market?! Just think of your daily lunch options…
WeWork Spitalfields – City
If you’re keen to engage with a wide range of businesses while also keeping the creative juices flowing then WeWork Spitalfields is a great option. This open and vibrant space oozes inspiration and is home to a broad variety of startups and freelancers. You will have access to meeting rooms, event space, free coffee and beer (yes!) and weekly events.
Niche Founders HQ – Shoreditch
If you need bright, clean spaces to work in then take a look at Niche Founders HQ. This space is open to a wide range of industries but prides itself on promoting creativity and innovation. Many creatives need an extra hand in getting the business aspect of being a successful freelancer under control and Niche Founders HQ can help you do this. You can even get help with your accounts – that’s definitely worth checking out.
