Insights
Third Places : Where We Want to Be
By
Lisa Wright
We don't want to be at the office and we don't want to be at home; so where do we want to be?
As remote work becomes the norm across many industries, workers are looking for new ways to collaborate with their colleagues. To meet this demand, a growing number of proptech companies have emerged with the goal of providing third spaces – places outside of home and office where people can gather and work together. These spaces are equipped with wifi and other amenities such as kitchenette facilities, comfortable seating areas, exercise rooms, and even outdoor areas for meetings or relaxation. The concept of third spaces has become immensely popular in recent years as a way to create a sense of community in times when many people feel isolated due to work and home life being so closely intertwined.
Not only do third spaces offer an alternative to traditional offices or homes, they come with numerous additional benefits that make them especially appealing to users. For one thing, they provide a different type of environment than either home or office – one that encourages collaboration but also allows for privacy when needed. Additionally, because they are not associated with any particular organization or company, they often provide people from all walks of life the opportunity to mix, network and find common ground without the pressure of any particular expectations or agendas. Finally, because third spaces often require subscription fees instead of long-term leases or contracts like those found in traditional offices or homes, users can enjoy more flexibility in terms of length and cost.
While it may seem like third spaces are just an emerging trend, their usage dates back centuries. From coffeehouses in 16th century London to modern co-working hubs around the world today, these settings have always been places where ideas can be exchanged and connections made without judgement or restriction. They offer an informal atmosphere that encourages creativity while still providing enough structure so that employees feel supported and motivated. With their newfound popularity brought about by remote working trends, third spaces are likely here to stay – for both business use and personal enjoyment alike.