9 inspiring co-working spaces in London for pioneering creatives
Working as a freelancer can get a bit lonely at times, not to mention that creativity is very difficult to cultivate in a vacuum.
Whether it’s for collaboration on projects, creative inspiration, or simply to get a change of scene, co-working spaces can provide an invaluable new environment for you to work in.
Read on to discover some of the most inspiring co-working spaces in London that have been designed specifically to nurture and support creative freelancers and startups.
1. Kozmik workspace
Based in Archway, Kozmik offers state-of-the-art facilities. Their fixed and hot desks can be rented for an hour, a day, or a whole month and as part of that you’ll also have access to a shared kitchen and breakout space. As well as the usual meeting rooms and offices, audio aficionados will love the podcast studio, which is sound-proofed and fully equipped with RODE gadgets.
2. Peckham Levels
Peckham Levels is home to nearly 100 local and independent creative businesses, showing just how committed they are to supporting the creative sectors. As well as a co-working space and support for businesses, the venue also features food outlets, a beauty salon, and even a tattoo studio, so there’s plenty going on.
3. BFI Reuben Library
If you’re working in the film or television industry, you won’t need us to tell you just how much is on offer at the British Film Institute (BFI) in Southbank. But have you ever considered working from their Reuben library? It’s free to use and visitors have access to a wealth of resources about film, television and moving image. The BFI also offers advice about accessing funding for your film-making career.
4. The V&A
Speaking of historic and inspiring buildings, did you know that the V&A also has a range of study rooms across London that are accessible for anyone? The study rooms provide access to a large collection of works including fine art, literature, and periodicals.
You’ll need to create a user account to be able to book a space, but once you are a member there is no need to book an appointment to use the spaces.
5. Uncommon
With locations spanning east, west, south, and north London, Uncommon has something for everyone, especially if you’re into greenery. Their stunning workspaces are adorned with indoor plants and foliage that bring the outdoors in – perfect for those winter months when the cold can sometimes prohibit the amount of time you might spend in nature.
6. Oru
Wellbeing takes centre stage at Oru, a workspace that puts community at the heart of everything they do. When you join as a member to book a hot desk, fixed desk, or office, you can also take advantage of a myriad of member benefits. These include a members’ breakfast on “Toasty Tuesdays”, a Slack community so that you can share ideas and collaborate with other members, and free meditation sessions and running club.
7. Somerset House
Somerset House offers co-working to a range of business, but for a space exclusively designed to support creative freelancers, The Exchange is worth considering. Eligibility criteria are strict, so make sure you meet the requirements before applying.
The space can be hired on a pay as you go basis, for a fixed number of hours a month, or unlimited. Bursaries are available to improve accessibility for those who may face barriers to getting into the industry.
8. Anomalous
Catering in particular for photographers and film-makers, Anomalous is a beautifully designed space that also offers access to a studio for exciting audio visual projects. They even have a production team to help you to realise your vision for the project.
9. The Ministry
Perhaps the coolest co-working space you’ll find in London, The Ministry was set up by The Ministry of Sound and has everything that a growing creative startup could need. As well as all of the work staples, the place also lives by the mantra “work hard, play hard” and holds regular “notwork” social sessions where you can meet other members – even your dog is welcome.
Keep your business protected while you’re on the move
When you change where you work and how often you transport your equipment, you also increase the risk of damage or theft of your belongings like your work laptop.
If you normally work from home or from an office and decide that you’d like to spend a bit more time hot-desking, make sure you check your equipment insurance to be sure you’re covered if anything was to happen to your tech. One quick update later and you’ll be able to enjoy visiting lots of exciting and inspiring new spaces with peace of mind.
If you’d like to learn more about how we can help you to protect your business no matter where you choose to work, please reach out. Email creative@eggarforrester.com or use our contact form to request a callback from our team.
