After COVID-19, coworking spaces have become the norm across the world. Indeed, they have transformed our working styles—combining flexibility, community, and productivity conveniently under one roof. One of the first choices to be made upon entering a coworking space is whether to sit at an open desk, or at a private desk? Each has its own unique appeal, and will attract a certain type of worker on any given day. The one you choose will be based on your priorities, personality, as well as your style of working. Your work desk will “summon” you, so to speak. In this case, as Ollivander says in Harry Potter “The wand chooses the wizard.”
Seeking Collaboration? Go for an Open Desk!
Often, coworking spaces have some shared areas that are meant to be used by everyone. Open desks can usually be seen in these shared spaces where members from the same or different teams can be seen working side-by-side. These are sometimes also referred to as hot desks (first-come, first-served) or dedicated desks that fit into a communal setup. Open desks are best suited to remote workers or freelancers who want to interact with others, as well as entrepreneurs who are looking for a dynamic environment to thrive in. Basically anybody who is willing to network and collaborate will benefit from sitting at an open desk.
Open desks allow workers to enjoy a social atmosphere that is lively. It also allows them to explore networking opportunities and connect with others, while simultaneously being more flexible and sometimes even cost-effective. However, bear in mind that open desks are not always perfect for every scenario. If you need to focus on a task, then an open desk might not be the best idea as the noise and distractions around you can interrupt your concentration. For those of us who need to make calls or discuss sensitive matters, open desks allow for lesser privacy. However, if you want a permanent seating facility, an open desk is not what you should seek out for yourself.
Combining Focus with Flexibility: Choose a Private Desk
If you are looking to mingle and network while also working in a space that allows for some semblance of privacy, then a private desk will be the better option. Private desks are dedicated workstations, which are sometimes enclosed within a semi-private or completely private space. Working at a private desk will allow you to enjoy the structure of an office along with all the perks of a coworking environment.
Many professionals seek privacy and confidentiality in their daily work, which is where a private desk should come in handy. Private desks are also well-suited to teams working on a project that needs continued concentration, or individuals preferring consistency and stability.
Workers using private desks will get increased privacy, fewer distractions, and a consistent yet personalized workspace with a built-in professional setting for calls & meetings. While private desks do have many benefits, there are undoubtedly more expensive than hot desks or open desks; and often limit interactions within the community.
When choosing your perfect work desk, you should first ask yourself:
- Am I productive when my surroundings are quiet?
- Am I seeking to increase my network?
- Does your budget matter?
- Is consistency necessary in my work environment?
Depending on the answers to the above questions, you will be able to determine whether you are best suited to a private desk or an open/ hot desk. There is no answer that will fit every single person, each choice will depend on the specific individual and their needs. Sometimes, people may even switch between the two throughout the day, depending on the tasks they have at hand.
Coworking is unique because it offers choice to anybody who seeks it out. It does not matter whether you shine the most amidst larger groups, or in the quiet solitude of a private desk–the right spot is that which helps you perform to your best abilities.
