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Guide to Co-Working Spaces in South Africa For Freelancers and Entrepreneurs

Are you a freelancer, entrepreneur, startup or small business looking for the perfect co-working space to take your productivity to the next level? Well, you’ve come to the right place!
Havana Dauncey
· May 29, 2024
Guide to Co-Working Spaces in South Africa For Freelancers and Entrepreneurs

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While moving offices comes with a lot of excitement, growth and a world of opportunities for your business, it also comes with a lot of stress and a million moving parts you need to juggle. Working remotely comes with many pros, such as flexibility, freedom, work-life balance. But sometimes working from home can be a bit isolating and make it tricky to separate work from rest, especially when the TV remote is right there.

That’s where co-working spaces come in! In this post-COVID world where remote work is on the rise, we’re also seeing a boom in co-working spaces across the country to meet the growing demand.

So, if you’ve started your own business or just moved to a new city and need a space to work, here’s everything you need to know about co-working spaces in South Africa.

Here’s our picks of the best places to remote work from in South Africa.


Workshop17

Workshop17 Johannesburg Coworking Space

Workshop17 is one of South Africa’s most popular co-working spaces. Starting in the famous Maboneng precinct in Johannesburg, Workshop17 has now spread to the country’s biggest cities and even Mauritius, with one of the most famous locations being in Watershed at the V&A Waterfront which boasts stunning views of Table Mountain and the harbour.

As one of the go-to co-working spots, it can get rather busy, particularly around lunchtime, making it the perfect spot for anyone who thrives in a buzzing atmosphere and is looking for a more social environment with lots of networking opportunities. It’s especially known as a techie hotspot.

An extra bonus, if you rent a private office space at Workshop17 you can bring your pet with you to the office 🐶 yay!

Joshua Roode shared his experience at the trendy Workshop 17 Watershed:

“Workshop 17 is a dynamic and vibrant working space that features great facilities for hot desking, dedicated desks, state-of-the-art board rooms, event spaces and an ideas lounge. Whether you just want to work from their trendy coffee shop and feel the hustle and bustle to planning your next venture, Workshop 17 is worth a visit.”

Locations:

  • Johannesburg– Rosebank, Sandton
  • Cape Town– V&A Waterfront, Gardens, Newlands, Paarl
  • Durban– Ballito

Amenities:

On-site staff, cleaning services, backup power and water, tech support, meeting rooms, food and drinks, networking events, fast internet, all-day cafe and large outdoor patio, lounge spaces, 24/7 access

Services:

Hot desks, offices, events, meeting rooms, seminar rooms, podcast rooms

Price:

From R2 180/month


Wondering What is a Co-Working Space?

A co-working space is an office designed for sharing. Creating a convenient and affordable workplace for freelancers, entrepreneurs, remote workers, startups and small businesses.

Co-working spaces provide remote workers with the perfect environment to not only boost productivity but also cultivate a social workspace with ample opportunity to network and meet like-minded people in your industry.

They also often come with a bunch of useful amenities like printers, phone booths, communal kitchens, cafes, meditation rooms, storage, showers, lounge areas and more. Plus, you never have to worry about load shedding disrupting your work with most co-working spaces having backup generators to keep the lights and WIFI on.

Depending on the type of workspace you are looking for, co-working spaces often offer various solutions:

  • Hot desk: Communal desks that work on a first-come-first-serve basis.

  • Dedicated desk: Private desk space in a shared office that allows you to set it up and keep your personal belongings on it for as long as you rent it.

  • Private office: Your own personal office space that is enclosed and separate from other workspaces, providing extra space and privacy.

  • Meeting room: A small boardroom that you can rent out on an ad-hoc basis, usually per hour, for you and your team.

If you’re looking for a flexible, social workplace while keeping costs low, then a co-working space could be the perfect solution.


WeWork

Wework South Africa Coworking Space

WeWork is by far the largest and most famous co-working company, with over 700 locations across 39 countries. With an All Access membership giving you access to every WeWork across the globe, this is a good option if you are an avid traveller.

Thanks to its convenient locations in both Cape Town and Joburg, WeWork is certainly a go-to spot for remote workers and is particularly loved for its friendly staff and sleek and modern design that can’t help promote productivity.

Here’s what Nacho Garcia Dapena, a WeWork Rosebank local, had to say about their WeWork experience:

“WeWork Rosebank is a lovely workspace offering not just a productive environment but an experience. The views over the city enhance the ambience, creating an inspiring atmosphere. The coffee is top-notch, thanks to a talented barista, and the cleanliness adds to the overall appeal. What truly sets this place apart is its incredible staff. Their genuine warmth and efficiency elevate the work experience, making WeWork Rosebank more than just an office space; it's a community where you can feel at home.”

Did you know that your Wework Johannesburg membership may give you access to other Wework locations around the world?

Locations:

  • Cape Town– CBD
  • Johannesburg– Sandton, Rosebank

Amenities:

Phone booths, business-class printers, tech services, meeting rooms, professional events and programming, on-site staff, wellness room, mother’s room, dog-friendly, bicycle storage, shower, barista, event space, outdoor space, recreational games, wellness room, stocked kitchen

Services:

Hot desk, dedicated desk, private office, full floor office

Price:

From R2 484/month


Cube Workspace

Cube Workspace Coworking South Africa

Cube Workspace is taking the co-working space to the next level. Cube Workspace is not only one of the more affordable co-working spaces but also has some unique offerings that make it stand out against the rest.

Offering a Pay as You Work service, you can use a desk here for as little as R325 a day. You can also rent a Virtual Office at Cube Workspace which gives businesses a professional feel by providing a business address and professional call answering service. This busy coworking space is also known for its networking opportunities with its Cube Circle which offers events, talks with industry leaders and a network to meet other businesses in your workspace.

This was Raymond Koen’s experience with Cube Workspace:

“Cube really has a great upbeat, modern vibe with good, clean, functioning facilities and an impressive wellness plan for clients to boot. The community-based culture they have cultivated has seen us collaborating with other Cube clients for the backs of their networking and social events.”

Locations:

  • Johannesburg– Bryanston, Fourways, Morningside
  • Cape Town– CBD, Rondebosch, Waterfront

Amenities:

Staff support, boardrooms and meeting rooms, cube cafe, IT support, high-speed internet, printers, security

Services:

Hot desk, dedicated desk, semi-private dedicated desk, private offices, virtual offices

Price:

From R2 100/month


Venture Workspace

Venture Workspace Coworking Cape Town

Venture Workspace is one of the newer co-working spaces but has certainly made a name for itself. Focusing on flexibility, affordability and productivity, Venture Workspace offers freelancing professionals, small to medium-sized entrepreneurs, start-up teams and out-of-town professionals a tailor-made co-working solution that works for them.

What makes Venture Workspace special is that while most co-working space focuses on the city centre, Venture Workspace ventures into the suburbs, catering to those who want to avoid the traffic and commute into the CBD. While the office spaces themselves like to keep it simple, they are expertly located near restaurants, cafes and shops.

Don’t take it from us — take it from Stephen, a member at the Venture Workspace in Claremont:

“This is the ideal space to work for those in the Southern Suburbs! What a gem to find this place after thinking all the good workspaces are only in town! The staff are super friendly and accommodating, pricing reasonable and there's everything you need - from an affordable on-site eatery, tuck shop, kitchen, free tea and coffee, etc!”

Locations:

  • Johannesburg– Fourways

  • Cape Town– Constantia, Claremont, Somerset West

Amenities:

Parking, easy access, always-on fibre

Services:

Desks, offices, meeting rooms

Price:

From R190/day or R2 300/month


The Workspace

Workspace coworking Johannesburg

The Workspace is a Joburg-based co-working space that has everything freelancers, entrepreneurs and small business owners need and more. Above the basics of a typical co-working space, the Workspace has a bunch of special and useful features at some of the most affordable prices.

While the Workspace may be one of the smaller, local co-working spaces, it also means they can provide a personal experience and go the extra mile for every client. Their incredible team that is there to help you at a moment’s notice is definitely one of their winning traits.

Lerato Ferland has only the best things to say about the Workplace Staff in Sunninghill, Sandton:

“Everyone at the Workspace (Sunninghill) is great. From security to the cleaning staff and maintenance guys. The ladies at the reception are more than helpful. They always attend to your needs, no matter how many times you need their assistance. Jess can be super busy but she will still ensure you are cared for. I love how friendly everyone is and how clean every area of the office space is.”

Locations:

  • Sandton
  • Randburg

Amenities:

High-speed internet, printers, cleaning, kitchens, tea and coffee, communal areas, telephone lines, courier services, nationwide TV advertising, outdoor and braai areas

Services:

Hot desk, office space, meeting rooms, boardrooms

Price:

From R1 828/month


Roamwork

Roamwork coworking

Located in the trendy East City district of Cape Town, Roamwork is one of Cape Town’s co-working hidden gems with a special atmosphere that’s designed to spark inspiration.

While Roamwork is on the pricier side, it makes it worth it with its exceptional features. One of Roamwork’s shining features is its eye-catching collector’s gallery of art found throughout the space which is sure to get the creative juices flowing. Roamwork even has its very own Bootlegger Coffee Bar for all you coffee lovers.

Here’s what Patrick Rimbault has to say about Roamwork’s unique space:

“Roamworks is a great place to get your co-working fix. The staff are awesome, always friendly, always happy to help. The vibe is a good mix of serious professionals and whimsical creatives, giving Roamworks a very unique energy. The location is ideal, with the vibrant East City Precinct of Cape Town at your front door. I love working at Roamworks - it's a great place to be and be a part of.”

Location:

  • Cape Town City Centre

Amenities:

Call booths, high-speed internet, printing, shared kitchen, in-house barista, privately generated power, showers, free lockers, underground parking (paid)

Services:

Hot desk, private office, daily office, dedicated desk, meeting rooms, letterbox

Price:

From R200/day and R2850/month


Spaces

Spaces V&A Waterfront Coworking

Spaces is another co-working chain famous worldwide known for its professionalism and super affordable prices. With over 543 locations around the world, Spaces is a particular favourite for digital nomads who always want the perfect workspace wherever they go.

With locations in cities across South Africa, Spaces offers designer office space, coworking offices and meeting rooms for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Spaces is able to cater to a variety of business needs, especially at branches like the Waterfront in Cape Town which spans 7 stories and offers 24/7 access.

Here’s Kelly Peter’s experience with Spaces at the Waterfront:

“I have been using Spaces V&A once a week for the last 3 months. The co-working area is spacious and furnished with comfortable office furniture. There are plenty of outlets to plug devices into. The Wifi and electricity are extremely reliable. The space allows you to be productive. Plenty of secure parking is available around the building. The staff are very helpful and friendly.”

Locations:

  • Cape Town– Long Street, V&A Waterfront, Sunclare, Century City
  • Johannesburg– Rivonia, Waterfall, Fourways, Broadacres, Atrium on 5th
  • Duban– Umhlanga
  • Pretoria– Menlyn Maine
  • Centurion– Byls Bridge

Amenities:

Super-fast wifi, printing, admin support, parking, coffee and sandwich bar, outdoor area

Services:

Shared space, dedicated desk, private office, meeting rooms

Price:

From R690/5 days and R1590/month


Craft+Graft

Coworking Cape Town Gardens

As a local Cape Town co-working space, Craft+Graft is perfect if you’re looking for a cosy, low-key workplace with great vibes and even better coffee.

Being a bit smaller, Craft+Graft knows how to bring that personal touch with its beautifully designed spaces, friendly team, beloved barista and welcoming community. Filled with plants, natural light and lively colours, you can’t help but feel at home, creating a comfy atmosphere to help you settle into your new office space and boost your productivity. Plus, it’s dog-friendly — so it can be a ‘bring your furry friend to work day’ every day!

David Haigh shared his positive experience at Craft+Graft:

“Amazing co-working community in the heart Gardens. Modern, trendy, light and spacious. Great flow for creative work and allows for networking. Super reasonable, tasty Deluxe coffee.”

Being a bit smaller, Craft+Graft knows how to bring that personal touch with its beautifully designed spaces, friendly team, beloved barista and welcoming community. 

Location:

  • Gardens, Cape Town

Amenities:

24/7 access, high-speed internet, printing, phone booths, unlimited coffee, tea and sparkling water, onsite coffee shop, staff on-site

Services:

Hot desk, dedicated desk, private office, virtual office, meeting rooms

Price:

From R200/day and R2100/month


AfricaWorks

AfricaWorks Coworking Spaces South Africa

With a mission to unlock Africa’s business potential and promote the free flow of ideas to create a vibrant Pan-African community, AfricaWorks provides high-quality office and coworking space solutions in cities across Africa, including Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Despite only starting in 2019, AfricaWorks has grown quickly, recently opening its 2nd South African branch in Joburg. Not only are the spaces designed with productivity in mind, but they also have a layout to encourage a work culture founded on networking and collaboration.

Wesley shared his AfricaWorks experience:

“Africaworks Shared Office space is beautiful, the staff are great, friendly and very accommodating. Africaworks has everything you need, great office space that is comfortable, free coffee, tea and WINE FRIDAY!!! The location is perfect for public and personal transport. Keep up the great work guys, this is truly an awesome venue.”

Locations:

  • Cape Town– CBD
  • Johannesburg– Rosebank

Amenities:

High-speed internet, printers, kitchenette, uninterrupted power, meditation room, phone booths, showers, personal lockers

Services:

Co-working space, private offices, virtual offices

Price:

R200/day, R2 100/month


Regus

Regus Coworking South Africa

Regus has one of the largest co-working networks in the world, with over 4 000 locations and over 50 branches in South Africa. While the office spaces have a more simple, corporate environment, Regus offers an affordable co-working service.

Convenience is clearly Regus’ standout feature, providing cities and areas with co-working solutions. Especially when a Regus membership gives you access to every location— whether you enjoy a change of scenery every now and then or like to travel SA and beyond, Regus is definitely a good option to consider.

Here’s what Lucy Strydom had to say about her time at one of Regus’ branches in Joburg:

“Wonderful centre team, Great location! Meeting room and office space is stunning. Great community for networking.”

Locations:

  • Cape Town– CBD, Foreshore, Observatory, Claremont, Milnerton, Century City, Tyger Valley, Somerset West, Stellenbosch
  • Johannesburg– Braamfontein, Parktown, Craddock Square, Rosebank, Eastgate Office Park, Illovo, Bedfordview, Sandton, Randburg, Greenstone, Quadrum Office Park, Bryanston, Rivonia, West Rand, Founders Hill, Woodmead Country Club, Wedgefield Office Park, Sunninghill, Fourways, Randburg, Midrand
  • Durban– Kingsmead, Country Club, Westville, Umhlanga, Ballito
  • Pretoria– Brooklyn Bridge, Pretoria Central, Lynnwood Bridge, Menlyn Maine, Faerie Glen, Moreleta Park, Centurion
  • Port Elizabeth– Humewood

Amenities:

High-speed internet, printing, on-site sandwich bar, breakout areas, 24/7 access, well-stocked communal kitchen, networking events

Services:

Hot desk, dedicated desk, private offices, meeting rooms

Price:

From R190/day and R690/month

Coworking FAQ

Can I bring clients or guests to a coworking space?

Yes, you can usually bring clients or guests to a coworking space. Most spaces offer meeting rooms for professional use, provide guest passes or allow limited-time visitor access, and ensure amenities like high-speed internet and refreshments. Always check the specific coworking space's visitor policies for any restrictions or requirements.

Will I be able to focus in a coworking space?

Yes, coworking spaces are designed to provide a productive work environment. They often have quiet zones, private offices, and meeting rooms to help you focus. Additionally, many spaces offer noise-cancelling options and designated areas for collaborative work to minimise distractions.

Do coworking spaces organise networking events?

Yes, most coworking spaces regularly organize networking events, workshops, and community activities. These events provide opportunities to connect with other professionals, share knowledge, and collaborate on projects, enhancing your professional network.

What is a virtual office?

A virtual office provides businesses with a physical address and various office-related services without the need for a physical office space. Services typically include mail handling, call forwarding, and access to meeting rooms, allowing businesses to maintain a professional presence while working remotely.

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