Updated: February 26, 2025
Flexibility is a key feature of the current work world, evident in everything from hybrid schedules to increasing numbers of entrepreneurs and the popularity of contract work.
But there’s one area where flexibility is really making its mark: shared workspaces.
More and more professionals and businesses are turning to coworking and shared workspaces to meet their operational needs. These modern shared office spaces are designed with flexibility in mind, offering spatial diversity, flexible hours, short-term contracts, and a variety of amenities and services.
Here, we explore the concept of shared workspaces, who uses them, and why Launch Workplaces may be the ideal choice for modern shared office spaces in Maryland, Ohio, or Washington, DC.
The Who, What, and Why of Shared Workspaces
A shared workspace is a physical workplace or office environment used by multiple professionals, businesses, or teams.
They either share the actual space—like a coworking area—or work from private offices and team suites that coexist in the same building with shared amenities and utilities.
Modern shared office spaces also typically offer a full suite of amenities in addition to workspace. At Launch Workplaces, we provide:
- Printing and scanning
- Refreshments.
- Flexible monthly contracts.
- On-site staff.
- Community events and networking opportunities.
- State-of-the-art facilities with modern decor and comfortable furniture.
- Spatially diverse settings with mixed-use spaces for working, socializing, or pursuing health and wellness.
- Bookable meeting rooms.
- Private phone booths.
Many of these features are not available in traditional offices with rigid, long-term contracts. The amenities are either not available or come at a significantly higher cost. Instead, professionals may opt for modern shared office space because it’s a flexible and cost-effective option.
Coworking spaces are often what people first associate with shared workspaces. These environments feature “hot desks” (unassigned seating in an open area) and are popular with remote workers, freelancers, or entrepreneurs.
While coworking is still popular, modern shared office spaces today often go beyond this traditional model. At Launch, we additionally offer private offer solutions for small and large teams and businesses. These private offices and suites attract teams of remote workers, start-ups, and small to medium-sized businesses who seek a mix of private office space and shared amenities, services, and opportunities.
We’ve previously talked about the many benefits of coworking, but here’s a high-level overview—modern shared office space can help professionals:
- Boost productivity, focus, and efficiency in an environment designed for work.
- Scale their businesses up or down with flexible office solutions.
- Improve work-life balance.
- Develop professional and social relationships.
- Lower administrative costs.
- Increase creativity.
With this list of benefits, it makes sense why more professionals than ever are turning towards shared workspace solutions today.
What Are the Benefits of a Shared Office?
Shared office spaces are gaining popularity among professionals and businesses of all sizes. They offer you a blend of affordability, flexibility, and access to a thriving professional community, making them an attractive alternative to traditional office leases.
But what does this really look like for you and your business?
Here’s how a shared office can benefit you.
Cost-effectiveness
One of the biggest advantages of shared office spaces is how much you can save from a dollars and cents perspective.
Traditional office leases often require long-term commitments, hefty security deposits, and additional costs for maintenance, utilities, and office supplies.
In contrast, shared workspaces offer an all-inclusive pricing model, allowing you to access high-quality office amenities without hidden fees. Whether you’re a solopreneur, a startup, or part of an established company looking to optimize costs, a shared office gives you a budget-friendly solution without sacrificing professionalism.
Flexibility
Your work needs are unique, and shared office spaces adapt to them. With options ranging from hot desks to dedicated offices, you can choose a setup that works best for you. Month-to-month memberships and short-term agreements mean you’re never locked into a long-term lease, making it easy to scale up or down as your business evolves. This level of adaptability is especially beneficial if you’re a startup, remote worker, or freelancer who needs a workspace that adjusts to your changing circumstances.
Optimal for Hybrid Teams
Shared workspaces are ideal for hybrid teams. They offer the flexibility to accommodate employees as needed without the expense of maintaining a large, underutilized office. Your team members can have a professional environment for in-person meetings, collaboration, and deep work, while still enjoying the freedom of operating remotely.
This setup fosters better team engagement, improves work-life balance, and ensures that when in-office time is needed, it’s spent productively.
Streamlined Space Utilization
For businesses managing a hybrid workforce, hoteling in a shared office space (also known as desk sharing) offers the perfect balance of flexibility and efficiency. Instead of paying for underutilized office space, you can give employees the option to reserve desks or offices only when they need them. This allows you to optimize real estate costs while ensuring your team has access to a professional, well-equipped environment whenever in-person collaboration is essential.
This approach also streamlines workspace management—rather than assigning permanent desks, your company can use a booking system to allocate resources dynamically.
Whether you have employees who come in a few times a week or teams that need occasional meeting space, hoteling ensures that space is used effectively while maintaining a structured, organized workflow.
Networking
A shared office is more than just a place to work—it’s a built-in networking hub designed to help you connect. Professionals from diverse industries come together in these environments, fostering collaboration, idea-sharing, and potential business partnerships. Whether you’re engaging in casual conversations in common areas or attending structured networking events, a shared office opens doors to valuable connections. If you’re an entrepreneur, freelancer, or small business owner, these networking opportunities can be a game-changer for your growth.
Amenities
Beyond just desks and chairs, shared office spaces offer you a range of amenities designed to support your productivity and convenience. High-speed internet, fully equipped meeting rooms, ergonomic furniture, printing services, and stocked kitchens are just some of the perks you can enjoy. Many shared offices also provide access to wellness rooms, on-site fitness centers, and exclusive member events, making it easier for you to stay efficient while maintaining your well-being.
Increased Productivity
If working from home or in noisy cafes has been a challenge for you, a shared office can be the solution. These professional environments help you stay focused and motivated while minimizing distractions. Being surrounded by other professionals also creates a sense of accountability, helping you stay on task. With fewer interruptions and access to resources like private meeting rooms and quiet work zones, you can significantly boost your productivity in a shared workspace.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shared Office Space
You may have questions about how shared office spaces work and whether they’re the right fit for you. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions to help you make an informed decision.
What is the difference between a shared workspace and a traditional office?
The key difference between shared workspaces and traditional offices is their structure and flexibility. A traditional office is leased by a single company and used exclusively by its employees, often requiring long-term commitments and high overhead costs. In contrast, a shared workspace is a communal environment where you can rent office space on flexible terms. Shared workspaces offer you cost savings, networking opportunities, and access to premium amenities without the financial burden of maintaining a private office.
What amenities are included in a shared office space?
Shared office spaces come with a variety of amenities designed to support your work efficiency and comfort. Common features include high-speed internet, dedicated desks or private offices, meeting rooms, phone booths, printing services, and mail handling. Many also offer perks like free coffee and tea, wellness areas, event spaces, and business support services. The exact amenities vary by location, but shared offices are designed to provide you with everything you need in a modern work environment.
Can teams or small businesses work together in a shared office?
Absolutely! Shared office spaces are an excellent choice for small teams and businesses. Many providers offer dedicated team suites, private offices, and collaborative spaces that allow your team to work together seamlessly. These spaces foster collaboration while giving you access to shared amenities and networking opportunities. If you’re running a small business, you can enjoy the benefits of a professional office setting without the high costs and long-term commitments associated with traditional office leases.
Why Choose Launch Workplaces?
Launch Workplaces was founded with a simple mission—to create inspiring spaces where solo professionals, satellite teams, growing businesses, and established enterprises could thrive.
Each of our modern shared office spaces is designed carefully and thoughtfully to meet this mission.
And it’s not just about getting the big things—comfortable workspaces, good locations, and all-inclusive pricing—it’s the details, too. Here are our five pillars and what you can expect at Launch:
- All-Inclusivity: Your Launch membership is all-inclusive, with amenities and services like printing and scanning or refreshments. You’ll never see surprise costs and will always be equipped with what you need.
- Flexibility: Launch is dedicated to coming up with a workspace solution that works best for you and your company. We don’t require long-term leases like a traditional office space, so you can choose from a variety of options that meet your needs now, and change it up as needed.
- Hospitality: Our on-site staff are available to help you with booking conference rooms, troubleshooting technology issues, or greeting your guests. They’re here to help you make the most of your workday.
- Customizability: Create an environment that inspires you! You are free to customize your space with decor, furniture, plants, or whatever you’d like. Shared workspaces don’t have to be completely the same—there’s lots of room for professional identity and company branding here.
- Community: One of the biggest benefits of a shared workspace is that it naturally supports growing a network and fostering social connections. From casual interactions to formal events planned by our staff, you can find your community at Launch.
Launch Locations: Modern Shared Office Space in DC, Ohio, and Maryland
While all Launch locations share the same five pillars listed above, each spot offers unique perks or features. You’ll find fun additions like nitro cold brew at some locations, while others have on-site gym access or free parking.
Modern Shared Office Space in Washington, DC
Launch Workplaces has four locations in Washington, DC:
- Glover Park: Located in the Glover Park neighborhood a mile away from Georgetown, this location features on-site parking, and access to restaurants, shops, and public transit.
- The Ring Building: This location features a convenient location to the Metro,access to restaurants, and modern, comfortable furnishings.
- Watergate: Located along the Potomac River overlooking the DC skyline, this location features a modern office in an economic building, and proximity to restaurants, shops, fitness centers, and more.
- Navy Yard: Located in the Waterfront neighborhood, this location features a green roof deck terrace, an on-site fitness center, and a newly-built, modern facility.
Modern Shared Office Space in Cleveland, OH
Launch Workplaces has one location in Ohio:
- Crocker Park: Located on the west side of Cleveland, this location features an urban downtown environment, customizable offices, and conference rooms.
Modern Shared Office Space in Maryland
Launch Workplaces has four locations in Maryland:
- Bethesda: Located on Wisconson Avenue, this location features easy access to the Metrorail, a central location in the business district, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.
- Gaithersburg: Located near Rio Washingtonian, this location features bright, open space, scenic lakefront views, free covered parking, and proximity to 50+ restaurants.
- Rockville: Located in the Park Potomac community, this location features free on-site parking, the most bicycle-friendly location, and an environmentally sustainable building with low-impact lighting and water-saving.
- Towson: Located right outside the Baltimore County Circuit Court, this location features floor-to-ceiling windows, paid covered parking, and close driving proximity to top-tier restaurants and retail outlets.
Modern shared office space is an excellent choice for professionals and businesses who want to level up their day-to-day experiences. Launch Workplaces offers shared workspaces in DC, MD, and OH that are designed to help you thrive at work.
You can explore more about our Launch locations online or contact us today to book a tour of your nearest shared workspace to find out what’s right for you.
