A Guide to Styling Private Offices in Coworking Spaces
As the landscape of work continues to evolve, more Canadian businesses are choosing coworking spaces for their flexibility, convenience, and community. But while the communal areas in these hubs are often thoughtfully designed, the private offices can sometimes feel like blank slates. For startups, remote teams, or satellite branches renting private offices within coworking environments, styling these spaces effectively can enhance productivity, reinforce company identity, and improve day-to-day satisfaction.
Infuse Your Brand Identity
A well-designed office starts with your brand. Even in a small space, it’s possible to infuse elements of your company’s personality through simple, cost-effective means. Think about your brand colours, mission, and values—how can they be visually represented? You might bring in wall art that reflects your company culture, use branded stationery and office supplies, or choose accent pieces that echo your logo palette. If your brand is modern and bold, opt for sleek, minimalist furnishings with pops of colour. If it’s more artisanal or rooted in nature, bring in wood textures, plants, and earthy tones.
These personalized touches not only help with internal morale but also project professionalism to clients or collaborators who might visit your space. A branded environment tells a story—it signals that your business is intentional, cohesive, and confident in its identity.
Design for Comfort and Wellness
Canadian winters are long, and daylight can be scarce, making indoor comfort especially important. Whether you’re in Vancouver or Toronto, prioritizing employee well-being in your office design is crucial. Start with ergonomic essentials: a high-quality chair, adjustable desk, and proper monitor setup are investments that pay off in productivity and reduced physical strain.
Lighting also plays a big role in mood and focus. While overhead fluorescents might come with the coworking package, consider bringing in desk lamps with warm, adjustable lighting. Adding soft furnishings like area rugs, curtains (if permitted), and even cushioned seating can help dampen noise and make the space feel cozier.
Make the Most of a Compact Layout
Private offices in coworking settings often come with space limitations. But small doesn’t have to mean cramped. Smart organization is key to keeping your office functional and aesthetically pleasing. Use vertical space for storage—wall-mounted shelves, pegboards, or magnetic boards are great for reducing clutter. Consider multi-functional furniture, such as a filing cabinet that doubles as a side table, or a bench with hidden storage.
Keep cords out of sight, create defined work zones (a desk area vs. a small lounge corner), and use visual tricks like mirrors or light-coloured decor to make the space feel larger. Modular design is your friend—pieces that can move or reconfigure easily are ideal in these types of ever-evolving workspaces.
Create a Sensory Experience
Don’t underestimate the power of subtle sensory details. A signature scent, such as a diffuser with cedarwood or lavender, can create a calming atmosphere. Background music or ambient noise machines can help mask distractions from the surrounding coworking environment, especially in bustling locations like downtown Montreal or Toronto.
Plants are another powerful tool. Not only do they purify air and reduce stress, but they also add a living, organic touch that connects your team to nature, even in a windowless office. Snake plants, pothos, and ZZ plants are popular choices for low-maintenance greenery.
Celebrate Local and Personal Touches
Finally, styling your space is a great opportunity to highlight your Canadian identity. Featuring artwork from local artists, Indigenous-made crafts, or photographs of iconic national landscapes can ground your workspace in a sense of place and pride. It also signals to team members and visitors that your company values community and culture.
Don’t be afraid to include personal items that make the office feel lived-in: a favorite mug, a framed quote, or a team photo can go a long way in making the space feel warm and authentic. Just be mindful not to overdo it—striking the balance between personal and professional is key.
In Conclusion
Your private office within a coworking space may be small, but it has the potential to serve as a powerful extension of your brand and culture. With thoughtful styling, any Canadian business—from solo entrepreneurs to growing teams—can create a space that feels productive, polished, and uniquely theirs. Whether you’re in a high-rise in Vancouver or a heritage building in Ottawa, the right design choices can turn a standard office into a home for your business.