Do I really need a coworking membership or
should I just work from Starbucks?

It’s a question that many of us have pondered, while waiting in line for our first pick-me-up of the working day. In today's fluid world of remote work, where flexibility is the name of the game, the allure of turning your local Starbucks, Costa or hotel lobby into your workspace is certainly stronger than ever. With countless charming nooks offering their own unique perks, FATC wonders, is it time to reconsider our workspace routine?

Coworking spaces are the productivity havens of the remote work era, meticulously designed to boost creativity and collaboration. These buzzy hubs are a magnet for freelancers, startups, and remote employees alike. According to TeamStage, 84% of coworkers report being motivated and engaged, while 82% report significant expansion of their professional networks since joining a coworking space.

Plus, coworking spaces excel in combating the sense of isolation that can often accompany remote work, boosting the general well being of members - a key focus in today's work culture. A whopping 89% of members feel happier, and 83% experience less loneliness compared to working from home. 68% of users say they’re better at meeting deadlines, and 60% find themselves more relaxed by the end of the day. 

Despite these perks, a lot of people still gravitate toward the comfort and flexibility of working from coffee shops or hotel lobbies. These spots offer a laid-back vibe at a fraction of the cost, without the need for long-term commitments. 

Coffee shops offer high speed wifi with a cosy, buzzing environment and a wide array of snacks and drinks at your fingertips. The economic benefits are huge - you only pay for your food and drinks, not for the space you occupy. There's also an undeniable nostalgic charm to the familiar ambiance of a Starbucks, with the constant aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

Meanwhile, hotel lobbies combine convenience and luxury, providing comfortable spaces that are a dream for client-facing meetings. With high-speed Wi-Fi and access to high-end amenities like gyms and dining options (plus restrooms that rival a five-star spa), it's an unbeatable setup. This isn't just appealing to the freelancers and entrepreneurs; business travellers, corporate executives, and CEOs also opt for the allure of an impressive hotel lobby for its professional ambiance. In fact, according to Gensler, a staggering 42% of people choose hotel lobbies as their workspace while travelling.

Our favourites? The ground floor at The Standard in Kings Cross has a cosy Library Lounge space which welcomes remote workers until 6pm every day. When in Holborn, the Hoxton lobby gives us free access to our very own Soho House. 

Of course, while coffee shops and hotel lobbies are great alternatives, they do come with limitations. Networking opportunities are more restricted, privacy is a major concern due to the open access, and you miss out on dedicated amenities like phone booths that coworking spaces offer. Plus, let’s face it, in today’s economy, visiting these spots feels more like a luxury than a necessity. Life is pricey, and for us FATC girls on a budget, a Blank Street coffee is our once-a-week mini splurge.