Co-working spaces can certainly be compared to artists’ collective studios. Community studios are workspaces shared by artists to realize their creative projects. Similar to co-working spaces, community studios provide an environment where people from different creative disciplines can come together and work.
The comparison between co-working spaces and community studios shows some similarities
Community and exchange
Both co-working spaces and community studios promote exchange and collaboration between members. Creative people can learn from each other, be inspired and share ideas. The diversity of creative disciplines in such environments allows participants to think outside the box and gain new perspectives.
Inspiring environment
Both co-working spaces and shared studios are often designed to provide an inspiring atmosphere. In community studios, this can be achieved through the presence of artwork, paint, and various artistic materials. Co-working spaces can be inspiring through their design, furnishings and creative atmosphere. An aesthetic environment can encourage creativity and support the incubation process.
Unconventional approaches
Both in co-working spaces and in community studios, people can develop unconventional approaches. Exchanging ideas with other creative people, immersing yourself in different creative processes and observing other artistic approaches can lead to new ideas and perspectives. The space for experimentation and deviating from traditional thought patterns can stimulate the incubation process.
However, there are also some differences between co-working spaces and community studios. While co-working spaces often cater to different professional groups and have a broader focus, community studios are designed specifically for artists. The working methods and needs of artists can differ from those of other professions. In addition, community studios are often equipped with specific artistic resources that are relevant to the work of the artists.
Overall, both co-working spaces and community studios can be seen as inspiring environments for users that can support the incubation process in creative projects. They promote exchange, offer an inspiring atmosphere and encourage unconventional thinking, which can lead to new ideas and solutions.
Design of co-working spaces
When designing co-working spaces, you can incorporate a lot of knowledge and experience from the structures and operation of artists’ communal studios. Here are some points:
Creative atmosphere
Community studios often create a particularly creative atmosphere through the integration of artwork, color and a stimulating environment. Co-working spaces can adapt this by designing their rooms with aesthetic elements and paying attention to an inspiring ambience. Creative design and the integration of art can stimulate the mood and increase the creativity of users.
Specific Resources
Community studios often provide specific resources and facilities relevant to artists’ work, such as specific tools or materials. Co-working spaces could benefit from this approach by responding to the needs of their users and providing specific resources or facilities tailored to their professions or industries. This could include, for example, technical equipment, workspaces for specific jobs, or access to specialized tools.
collaboration and exchange
Community studios promote exchange and collaboration between artists. Co-working spaces could use similar approaches to facilitate the sharing of knowledge and ideas between members. This could be facilitated by organizing networking events, workshops or informal meetings. Creating a collaborative atmosphere where people can learn from and support each other is an important aspect of the success of co-working spaces.
Creative events and programs
Community studios often offer creative events such as exhibitions, open studios or joint projects. Co-working spaces could develop similar programs to encourage their members to showcase and share their creative projects. This can increase member visibility and add to the creative dynamics of the space.
Promoting diversity
Community studios often bring together artists from different disciplines and backgrounds, resulting in a wide range of perspectives and ideas. Co-working spaces could also aim to create a diverse community by catering to people from different professions, industries and backgrounds. The diversity of users can enrich the creative exchange and lead to innovative solutions.
By learning from community studios and adopting their best practices, co-working spaces can optimize their environments and services to provide even greater support for creative work and the incubation process.
© 2023 Innovator’s Guide / E.W. July 16, 2023