The idea of shared working and living spaces, to foster social interaction and to bring forth a sense of community, is a concept that continues to pervade in today’s society.

This idea is what we like to call the THIRD SPACE. A concept inspired by American sociologist Ray Oldenburg’s “Third Places”. Third space is often described as a location people visit between work and home, where they interact and make new connections.However, in today’s technologically advanced and fast-paced world, with the recent reconfigurations in the way we work and live, the term third space is no longer just a location between home and work. Rather, it has become a location where home and work merge. Where connections and communities arise.

REASONS FOR THE SHIFT

Because of the advent of digital communication technologies, people today can now veer from the traditional 9 to 5 workday. We are now more mobile, with more options to telecommute or work remotely. We have more freedom in designing our lives and choosing how we live and how we work. With booming populations around the globe, space is also now more limited. As a result, we are seeing a rise in rent and housing prices. On top of that, there are sustainability issues of managing our own places since we are always on the go. There is also rising levels of social alienation, anxiety, and depression in global cities. Many say we have stronger WiFi connection, but we are no longer as connected and as invested in our communities.

These reasons brought up the creation of these third spaces.

Entrepreneurs around the globe are building these spaces as a response to the growing population, the alienation due to gadgets, and the new nomadic lifestyle in this modern world. Likewise, individuals who choose to live and work in these third spaces no longer follow the old blue print of the days gone by. They are taking life by the horns and living it amidst a strong community spirit.

THE CONCEPT OF SHARED COWORKING SPACE AND COLIVING

Coworking is a new modern work style that recently emerged because of the demand of new types of workers who opt for more flexibility and are looking for a better work life balance. A shared coworking space is a shared work environment that is akin to an office. Has a more relaxed vibe and brings forth people who work but not necessarily together. The coworking concept has become an attractive option for those who work flexi hours and are generally more mobile (as freelancers, people from the creative industry, solo entrepreneurs…). They don’t need a formal and grand office set-up. They do need work amenities and meeting areas that provide the office environment.

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The rising concept of Coliving is strongly related to Coworking. At times, they even go hand in hand.

You can rent a room and share communal living areas such as the kitchen, dining room, or garden. You have the option of doing your own thing or coming together for meals and friendly discussions. The choice and the power rest in your hands. There is also the option to either rent long-term or just a few weeks. Being tied down is no longer necessary, and we can stay for as long as you want in that specific place.

BUILDING A COMMUNITY IN THE "THIRD SPACE"

On top of the value for money, coworking and coliving bring to the table the opportunity to create valuable connections. It makes living or working more sustainable because you do not only share resources, spaces, and energy, but also experiences and ideas. Many third spaces in various parts of the world all aim to provide a hub fortalents. Members bring in a diverse culture, personality, and traditions to the forefront. Yet, in spite of this diversity, there is still somehow like-mindedness with the goal of being free from the doldrums of a structured life. With a good mix of creative people, start-up wonder, and professionals crossing each other’s paths, there are now more opportunities to learnfrom each other. To boost each other’s strengths and grow from your weaknesses. These shared social and work areas can help you bloom and develop.

To some extent, the people joining coworking and living spaces, more or less live the same lifestyle.

Have the same professional interest, the same work ethics, and carry the same work objectives. Indirectly, a small labor pool or professional cluster is born in these coworking spaces. You get the chance to work together and learn from each other by means of sharing ideas and cultural exchanges. You have the freedom to work or live alone and the flexibility to engage with others if you want to. You have the chance to enhance your productivity, efficiency, and creativity. As you are always surrounded by people who either share the same passion as you or have their own unique viewpoints and skill sets. You can see things from a whole new perspective.

E-Co AS A THIRD SPACE

So how are we redefining the third space at E-Co? At E-Co, the idea of coworking and coliving does not only change the way we define work or home. We redefine the concepts of human connections and our relationship with the planet. We design coliving spaces for travelling professionals, remote workers and entrepreneurs where they can feel safe, comfortable, and empowered while seamlessly minimizing their impact on the environment.

Our spaces do not only create a sense of belonging for our members, but they also inspireenvironmental and social ideas.

It’s a third space that nurtures social and environmental co-creation. Bringing together brilliant minds that, otherwise, would not have met in the outside world. With a strong emphasis on being responsible, not just for ourselves but for the world around us, E-co inspires and promotes a healthy lifestyle, while being compelled to take responsibility for our immediate environment and being its stewards.