Evaluating shared vs. private office space in Austin, TX

So, you’re looking for office space in Austin, TX, but you aren’t sure where to begin. Traditional private offices come with advantages but can also come with a hefty price tag. Shared office space, on the other hand, can be a great cost-effective solution but typically offers less privacy than a private office would.

Both solutions can work wonders for start-ups, small businesses, and entrepreneurs, and even large enterprises rent office space from coworking venues. But which one is right for you?

In this brief article, we will go over the pros and cons of both shared and private office space so that you can make the best choice for yourself and your business. 

The Pros of Shared Office Space

Shared office space in Austin is usually the best choice for those who are just getting started or are otherwise on a tighter budget. Let’s face it, private offices are expensive and simply aren’t necessary in many cases. Let’s look at the benefits of choosing a shared office space.

Shared offices are more affordable

Coworking offices are simply much more cost-effective than private office spaces. In most cases, a shared office will only be a fraction of the price of a private office solution. Also, shared offices typically include amenities, such as computers, desks, chairs, internet, and sometimes coffee and tea, not to mention utilities. All of these incidental expenses can add up quickly, so by opting for shared office space, you’ll be saving a ton of money.

Shared offices offer networking opportunities

Whether you are a freelancer, an entrepreneur, or a small team, meeting other like-minded professionals can be a great way to grow, collaborate or even drum up more business. Networking is paramount to success in any industry, and by working in a shared office space, you will have countless opportunities to meet new people and network.

Shared offices still give you privacy

When most people think of shared office space, they picture a hectic, loud co-working space and think they won’t be able to focus and get any work done, but this isn’t the case at all. Shared offices still feature a good amount of privacy, and most of the people at a shared office are also trying to focus and quietly complete their work. Shared offices also typically feature private boardrooms, meeting rooms, or other private spaces that you can use for meetings.

The Cons of Shared Office Space

Although shared office space is, in many cases, a great choice, there are some downsides to sharing your office with other people, and it’s important to be aware of them before you sign up.  

Shared offices can be distracting

Although most people in a shared office are there to work quietly on their tasks, there is nevertheless still much more going on than there might be in a controlled private office environment. There could be people talking on the phone, networking, or otherwise speaking, which can at times be a bit of a distraction. 

In fact, one study found nearly half of those who use coworking spaces say distractions are their biggest drawback. You’ll likely see many people wearing headphones to drown out any excessive noise, and some venues do a good job at promoting respectful working habits.

Shared offices won’t feature your branding

Because the office space is being shared, unless the venue offers private offices, you won’t be able to display your logo or name, which can to some clients look less professional than a private office. You also won’t have a private secretary or any other personal staff on hand and will need to rely on the services provided by the shared office company. Some venues do offer a front desk receptionist who will direct guests to your location.

The Pros of Private Office Space

Private office space is the standard for larger businesses and features a number of benefits that you simply won’t get with a shared office space. Some venues give you the option of renting one or more desks in their coworking area or individual or group private offices, sometimes both. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why you might want a private office instead of shared office space.

Private offices are more professional

If you want to look as professional as possible, there simply is no substitute for your own private office space. With your own business address, your own staff, your name on the door, and everything else that comes along with having a private office, clients will be more likely to regard you as a professional, which can be good for business.

Private offices give you more privacy

Unlike with shared office spaces, you won’t have to worry about being distracted by chit-chat, networking, people on the phone, or any of the other potential disruptions that can at times occur in a shared office setting. You can speak more freely and not have to worry about anyone overhearing a sensitive conversation.

Private offices are more customizable

With a private office, you are free to arrange things however you want. You can add artwork, furniture, or other personal touches to make the office feel like your own creation rather than having to rely on the design aesthetic of shared office space.

The Cons of Private Office Space

Although private offices offer some considerable benefits, they do also come with a few downsides, so let’s look at those now.

Private offices are more expensive

There’s no way around it; private offices are simply more expensive. The price of the lease will be higher and require a long-term lease on a space you may outgrow or not need. You will, in most instances, also need to pay for all the equipment, furniture, utilities, and everything else that comes along with leasing a private place of business.

Private offices aren’t always as good for networking

Unlike with shared office spaces, your opportunities for networking at meeting other business professionals will be limited to those within your own company. This can be a blessing or a curse depending upon your industry, but for some, it’s a downside.

The Best Solution for Austin Office Space

There is a way to get the best of both worlds when it comes to office space in Austin, TX. VUKA offers flexible and affordable office space options for people living in Austin – neither of which requires a long-term contract. 

VUKA combines the best elements of both private office space and shared office space all in one place. Contact VUKA today to learn more about their shared and private office space solutions and how they can help you take your business to a whole new level for a price that won’t break the bank.