Coworking and shared offices in Spain

Coworking, cowork, or flexible/collaborative workspace are terms that refer to the same concept. If we break down the literal definition of the English term Coworking: "Co" adds a sense of group, gathering, union, and collectivity to the word it precedes, which in this case is "work," meaning to work in English. Thus, we arrive at the combined translation of "working together." But beyond the obvious, this term encompasses many other nuances that give it a complete meaning.

Although it may seem like a trendy modern word, the coworking space concept emerged in Berlin (Germany) in 1995 with the birth of C-base. It is considered the first approach to this term as one of the earliest coworking models. However, it was in 1999 when American video game designer Bernie DeKovem first used the term "coworking," with a slightly different meaning than we’re accustomed to: "working together as equals". Finally, in 2005, programmer Brad Neuberg officially opened the first coworking space in San Francisco, offering a service very similar to what we know today.

Thus, we arrive at the definition we’re most familiar with: a shared space to work independently that allows for connecting and creating synergies with professionals from other sectors. The coworking philosophy, then, is inspired by a participatory culture, fueled by the development of initiatives to enhance communication and a collaborative economy, by sharing not only a physical space but also the fixed costs associated with having an office.

For its part, the Coworking Spain platform defines it as "a new way of working that allows freelancers, self-employed individuals, and startups to share a space, foster projects, and enhance business opportunities."

In Spain, the growth of these new flexible workspaces since 2010, spurred by the economic crisis, is undeniable. Since then, collaborative workspaces have undergone significant evolution. According to data from the presentation at the “Coworking Spain Conference” in 2018 by Manuel Zea (from Coworking Spain, a pioneer of coworking in Spain), there are currently 1,547 spaces in our country, with 370 in Barcelona and 300 in Madrid: 78% of the total in Spain. This places Spain behind the United States and Germany as the third country with the most offices of this type and one of the most forward-thinking nations in terms of flexible work.

And it doesn’t seem to be a passing trend—they’re here to stay. Multinational companies predict having up to 30% of their workforce in these workspaces. For example, Microsoft currently has 5% of its staff in a coworking space and plans to increase this to between 20% and 30%.

The operation of a coworking space is very simple, as straightforward as the English expression "plug and play": connect and use.

Through the payment of a monthly fee, the primary service of a coworking space is the rental of shared spaces with other people who, like you, are looking for a more flexible, social, and above all, more economical alternative.

There are usually various options and plans depending on the fee you pay, which will grant you access to more or fewer services, such as: a work area, private office or individual desk to connect your computer, Wi-Fi and wired internet, printing and photocopying, meeting rooms, common areas, storage, restrooms, registered office, tax and administrative address, mail handling...

A key component in these collaborative spaces is the role of a Community Builder or Manager. This person stands out for their empathy, as their main role is to connect, care for, support, and motivate members or coworkers to gradually build a community with similar values. They will also be able to create internal dynamics and convey the coworking’s branding, becoming the ambassador of the collaborative workspace. Therefore, they must be personable and inspiring. The Community Builder or Manager is the main difference compared to a HUB, shared office, or business center.

The flexibility of renting a coworking space, another distinguishing feature compared to other types of shared offices, adapts to your work pace and schedule. Thus, you can find different coworking models on the market:

• Fixed Coworking: A stable spot where you can leave all your daily work materials and turn it into a steady office for your business activities.
• Flexible Coworking: You’re not tied to a specific spot, but it allows you to work by the hour or day with your laptop and choose where to sit each time you go. Plus, you can benefit from the community’s advantages.
• Nomadic Coworking: The rise of new Digital Nomads, those equipped with technology to work from anywhere, has led to the emergence of various meeting spaces to connect, help each other, and share experiences.
• Nocturnal Coworking: Though less common, this type of collaborative space exists for those who find inspiration better at night.

Between Madrid and Barcelona, the vast majority (78%) of coworking spaces in Spain are concentrated. The price of these spaces varies depending on the coworking rate you ultimately choose, the model that best fits your needs, and the services you contract.

The price will also be influenced by the city and the area where the selected coworking space is located.

At CBRE, we help you find the space that best suits your needs. From just a single workstation to a customized office for your team, a private office, meeting room... We also adapt to the time you need it for.

We have a list of coworking spaces classified by the main cities in Spain at your disposal. Below, we show you some of them:

• Coworking in Madrid

  You’ll find coworking spaces in the vicinity of Madrid Capital (Castellana, Retiro, Tetuán, Barrio Salamanca...) and in the Northern Zone (Alcobendas)

• Coworking in Barcelona

  We have collaborative workspaces in Barcelona City (San Marti, Les Corts, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, Ensanche, Ciutat Vella...) and in Baix Llobregat Sud (Cornellá de Llobregat and El Prat de Llobregat)

• Coworking in Valencia

  In this case, collaborative workspaces are mostly located in Valencia City (Ciutat Vella, El Pla Real, and Campanar).

• Coworking in Málaga

  Coworking spaces available in Málaga City and Marbella.

  If you think your business model fits this type of collaborative workspace and want to take advantage of the benefits we’ve mentioned, take a look at our selection of flexible workspaces and coworking.

  But if, on the other hand, you’re not entirely convinced and prefer to stick with a more traditional office type, at CBRE you can find office rentals office rentals and office sales.

• Coworking in Seville

  You’ll find flexible workspaces in the Historic Center and the modern Nervión District with the comfort you need.