In recent years, the ever-changing world of work has continued to develop in new and exciting ways. Remote and hybrid work, freelance work, and a vibrant network of emerging and thriving startups have all reshaped the roles and needs that exist in the workplace. These changes have contributed to making traditional office spaces less appealing. Meanwhile, coworking spaces have gained serious popularity as thriving hubs for community and innovation.
While hot desks are a popular choice for their flexibility, dedicated desks provide a more stable option for those who need a consistent and personalized workspace. In this article we look at the awesome benefits of dedicated desks as a workspace solution.
What are Dedicated Desks and how do they work?
Dedicated desks are a workspace solution that provide an elevated level of comfort, convenience, and personalization. Unlike hot desks, they are assigned to and reserved for specific users. Dedicated desk memberships come with a desk, office chair, and lockable cabinet. They are typically grouped together in an open-concept environment. They may include full or partial privacy screens, depending on the design of the coworking space you’re in.
Along with the furniture and a reserved space to work, dedicated desk memberships provide users with access to all the shared facilities within a coworking space, including but not limited to call rooms, kitchens, meeting rooms, lounges, and breakout areas. Amenities such as high-speed WiFi, a dedicated Community Lead, printing and scanning, complimentary coffee and tea, and regular community events / socials are all included.
At Workhaus, our members have 24/7 access to their home locations, coupled with business hours access to other Workhaus locations across Canada. For example, if you travel from Calgary to Toronto, or from Toronto to Kitchener-Waterloo, you can use a Workhaus space in your destination city. While you won’t have a dedicated desk reserved for you at other locations, you will have complimentary access to work from the hot desk area, plus all the other shared facilities and amenities offered!
What are the benefits of dedicated desks?
Dedicated desks come with all the benefits of coworking, and specific benefits both for employers and employees alike.
A Cost Effective Solution With Flexible Terms
At Workhaus, workspaces and memberships are available on a month-to-month basis, giving you the ability to adapt as your needs change. As one of our most in-demand membership options, dedicated desks are available at a fair and affordable rate, giving individuals and companies the professional workspace, address, and image they need. For smaller teams, a cluster of dedicated desks can also be a more cost effective option than a private office space.
An Inspiring Environment for Improved Productivity
Unlike coffee shops or the distractions that come with working from home, your dedicated desk membership provides access to a work environment designed for productivity. Your dedicated desk membership includes access to a range of shared spaces as well. Find an area for quiet focus, a meeting space to collaborate with a colleague, or dive into conversation in the kitchen with a fellow member to bounce ideas off of them!
Social Programming and Enhanced Networking Opportunities
As the world of work moves increasingly into the digital space, the value of in-person networking and social connections cannot be overstated. While hot desks encourage you to interact with different people each day, dedicated desks provide an opportunity for deeper, long-term connections with fellow members in the space. As you’re more likely to share a regular location within the same vicinity of a group of coworkers, there’s a greater chance of building meaningful relationships and collaboration opportunities over time.
At Workhaus, our curated professional and social programming ranges from weekly member socials to keynotes and industry networking nights, allowing you to choose from a diverse mix of regularly scheduled events.
Are dedicated desks the only option for coworking?
No, they’re not! While they’re certainly a popular form of coworking, there are many other membership options available. Dedicated desks are one of the best options available for individuals and small teams. Other coworking membership options include hot desks, virtual offices and long or short-term private offices for teams of all sizes. At Workhaus, we also work with teams to build bespoke corporate packages that cater to their specific needs.
Dedicated desks vs hot desks: What is the difference?
Hot desks provide access to a range of workstations and soft seating, available on a first come, first serve basis. On the other hand, dedicated desks are assigned to specific users, providing a more permanent and personalized workspace.
Personalization for Long or Short Term Comfort
Unlike hot desks, dedicated desks allow you to create a space that truly feels like your own. This includes bringing in the equipment you need, like a monitor or keyboard, for optimal comfort. You can further personalize your workspace with desktop plants, photographs, or other small touches to create an inspiring space. It also removes the daily hassle of choosing a new desk and setting up your workspace, helping you save time and allowing you to start work the moment you arrive.
Stronger Professional Image
A dedicated desk in a coworking space does more than just give you a spot to work; it helps establish a sense of professionalism. When clients or collaborators visit, having a consistent, personalized workspace sends a clear message: you’re serious about your business. It shows that you’re both invested and organized. That stability creates trust, and for many clients and stakeholders, knowing you operate from a fixed, reliable environment makes a lasting impression.
Investing in Your Workday
A dedicated desk might cost more than a hot desk, but the added value can be well worth it for regular users. A consistent workspace means less time settling in and more time focused on work. The ability to personalize your setup, leave equipment behind, and enjoy a sense of ownership can boost productivity and reinforce a more professional presence; benefits that often outweigh the extra cost.
Who should use a dedicated desk?
Dedicated desks are especially popular with remote workers, small teams, and SMBs in general. Companies with a hybrid work model can utilize the flexibility and convenience of this membership option. This allows companies to scale their desk count up or down as needs change. For small teams, a pair or cluster of dedicated desks provides a more affordable solution than a private office without sacrificing many of the benefits. If you need a permanent desk in a professional workspace, a dedicated desk could be the perfect solution.
How much does a dedicated desk cost?
The cost of a dedicated desk can vary depending on both the city and coworking operator. They typically range from $350 to $750 monthly. At Workhaus, we offer an all-inclusive model with a free allotment of monthly meeting room hours. Depending on your specific needs, our membership solutions can be adapted to accommodate different budgets.
Many companies that recognize the benefits of flexible work arrangements may offer their employees a monthly coworking stipend. These stipends save money for both the employee and the business, since dedicated desks are a lower cost and more flexible option than leasing traditional office space.
Is a dedicated desk membership right for me?
As you decide whether or not a dedicated desk is right for you, you should consider your individual workspace needs. How much space and privacy do you want in your workspace? How big is your team? Is one workstation enough for your company? These factors, among others, may impact your decision, and ultimately you’ll need to pick what’s best for you or your team. If opting for an affordable workspace that offers flexibility, convenience, and community, it’s likely a great choice!
Can I view and trial a coworking space before I sign up for a dedicated desk?
Yes! Reach out here to book a tour of any of our locations.
I have questions about Workhaus!
Read our FAQ section to find the answers to many common questions or reach out to us directly. Our team is always here to help you find the perfect workspace solution.