You, a laptop, and a hot coffee. Sounds dreamy, right? However, in most cases, the harsh truth is that you are either a freelancer, entrepreneur, or remote worker, and finding the perfect workspace in Pakistan is like looking for the needle in the haystack. The struggle is real. Worry not, I’ve got the scoop on a game-changer: the workspace alternatives in Pakistan. Right, you have heard it.
In this blog, we begin our expedition to unravel the mysterious world of alternative workspaces in Pakistan. We’ll smell the sweet aroma of fresh coffee, and hear the hushed whisper of turning pages as we will take a look at all aspects of this experience.
So take your laptop along with you, keep your curiosity, and let us begin the virtual tour of the alternative workspaces in Pakistan. Your perfect workspace awaits!
Why do you need an alternative workspace?
So, let’s take a closer look at the reasons why you are in dire need of a new alternative workspace, right?
Picture this: you’re slouching on your couch, one hand holding the laptop, another holding the coffee cup, trying to grapple with the thought of dealing with the pile of work that seems like a mountain.
However, instead of hurling yourself into your tasks, you spend endless moments on your social media pages or the untidy laundry in the corner will distract you. Sound familiar?
Believe me, I have experienced the same. A home office seems like an ideal place to be – pajamas all the time, no commute, and an infinite snacks supply. However, it is two-faced, you know, it is a sword that cuts both ways.
Definitely, the freedom rocks, but the annoyances? It is amazing just how the smallest of things can have a huge impact on the mindset of the hardest-working freelancer.
That’s when alternative workspaces in Pakistan spring up to our aid. Consider it, a place which you can visit to get away from the distractions of home and where you can finally focus on the things that really need to be done.
Types of Alternative Workspaces
Coffee Shops
Coffee shops provide a laid-back atmosphere with comfy seats where you can bring your laptop and work or have informal meetings with a cup of coffee. They are perfect for freelancers, remote workers, as well as small teams that want to work/collaborate in a more relaxed environment. Coffee shops are great for casual meetings, brainstorming, or just having a relaxing chat with peers.
Pros:
- Affordable workspace option.
- Casual and inspiring environment.
- Access to food and beverages.
Cons:
- Potential for poor internet connection.
- Noise levels can be distracting, especially if you plan to take meetings there.
- Lack of privacy.
Average cost:
Approximately PKR 1000-2000 per day for food and beverages, depending on the establishment and your order.
What coffee shops, public libraries, bookstores, hotel lobbies, and coworking spaces you can explore in Islamabad? We have got you covered in detail.
Public Libraries and Bookstores
Public libraries and bookstores offer tranquil and calm settings with enough seating and access to books and research aids. These are for those who want to have an undisturbed space with no interruptions when they need to work on tasks that need concentration and deep work. Public libraries and bookstores are perfect for reading, writing, and focus sessions of students, writers, and professionals for the purpose of research.
Pros:
- Quiet and peaceful environment.
- Usually free to access.
- Suitable for intense focus sessions.
Cons:
- Strict noise rules.
- Limited hours of operation.
- Potential for limited resources
Average cost:
Free access to public libraries. Some bookstores may require a purchase or charge a small fee for membership or access to certain resources.
Parks and Public Spaces
Parks and public spaces are the places where people can spend time in the open air with beautiful nature and with various kinds of benches or picnic tables. They are indeed for those who like working near nature and get inspired by it. The parks and public spaces are perfect places for creative brainstorming sessions, informal talks, or a break from the constraining indoors workspaces.
Wondering which parks you should consider? I already did that for you. Here are some options: Fatima Jinnah Park (F-9 Park), Kachnar Park, and Lake View Park.
Pros:
- Inspiring natural settings.
- Free to use.
- Ideal for creative brainstorming.
Cons:
- Weather-dependent.
- No power outlets.
- Security concerns.
Average cost:
Free to use for parks and public spaces, making them a budget-friendly option for outdoor work.
What coffee shops, public libraries, bookstores, hotel lobbies, and coworking spaces you can explore in Lahore? We have got you covered in detail.
Hotel Lobbies
Hotel lobbies have areas to sit with access to amenities such as internet and refreshments, creating an atmosphere that is professional but relaxed for work. They are convenient for business persons, freelancers, and travelers who may want to have a temporary workplace or meeting space. Lobbies of hotels can be used as venues for business meetings, day-long work shifts, or networking in a classy setting.
Serena Hotel, Marriott Hotel, Ramada Hotel, and Crown Plaza Hotel can be good options for you to try but make sure to do your research before taking your laptop up to a hotel for work because these can be expensive compared to coworking spaces.
Pros:
- Comfortable seating.
- Reliable Wi-Fi.
- Suitable for business meetings.
Cons:
- More expensive than other options.
- Potential for high foot traffic.
- May require purchase of food or beverage.
Average cost:
Approximately PKR 2500-4000 per day for beverages or meals, depending on the hotel’s location and reputation.
Kickstart Coworking Space
Kickstart coworking spaces have the features of structured work environments that provide dedicated desks, private offices, and premium amenities such as high-speed internet and meeting rooms.
They are intended for entrepreneurs, startups, and folks looking for professional workspaces with networking opportunities and community events. Kickstart coworking spaces are a perfect choice for those who need a trusted and collaborative working space to expand their businesses or work on new projects.
And with Kickstart coworking space, you get to choose from a variety of options according to your preferences and what works best for you. The options include:
Not only that, but you can also enjoy other amenities:
- Legal and accounting support
- Internet with failover connections
- Power backup
- Unlimited tea and coffee
- Printing and copying
Pros:
- Structured and professional environment.
- Guaranteed amenities like high-speed internet.
- Networking opportunities.
Cons:
- There is a less casual atmosphere compared to coffee shops.
Average cost:
Membership plans typically range from PKR 24000-40000 per individual per month, with day pass options available for approximately PKR 1200-2000 per day, providing access to premium amenities and professional environments.
Note: You can find the proof of all the statistics here.
What coffee shops, public libraries, bookstores, hotel lobbies, and coworking spaces you can explore in Karachi? We have got you covered in detail.
Comparing Alternative Workspace in Pakistan
Hot FAQs: Alternative Workspaces in Pakistan
What is the difference between coworking and shared office space?
Coworking space creates a collaborative environment and a community from professionals from different fields by means of memberships with a flexibile approach and common areas. Differentiating between coworking and shared office spaces, the former is usually an open-plan office with a communal space that lacks the friendly feeling of the latter.
How do shared offices work?
Sharing office spaces is a perfect solution for people who prefer working from home but need the office facilities such as dedicated desks, meeting rooms, or amenities from time to time. Usually, occupiers pay a membership fee or rent for the area they require in accordance with the flexible terms that allow them to expand or lessen the space when needed.
Is a coworking space better than a coffee shop?
Coworking spaces facilitate a setup that has a designed working area, amenities, and networking opportunities that encourage productivity and teamwork. Whereas coffee shops are known for being a relaxed environment, the tools and privacy for intense work are scarce to say the least. However, eventually, this choice will be made based on one’s own preferences and work commitments.
What is the best alternative workspace for a freelancer?
The working space that suits a freelancer best is highly dependent on individual preferences and work style. Others may enjoy the dynamic of coworking spaces because of the community and amenities while others may choose a coffee shop or library for the flexibility and ambiance. Try to pinpoint your formula for productivity and creativity.
How a coworking space is better than a home office?
Coworking space has a businesslike atmosphere and with facilities like high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and networking opportunities, productivity, and focus improve. Moreover, they create the barrier between work and home life, detaching the work from personal life and promoting the work-life balance.
Wrapping up: Alternative Workspaces in Pakistan
Alright, let’s wrap things up and give you the lowdown on all those awesome alternative workspaces we’ve been chatting about.
While coffee shops offer affordability but lack reliability, public libraries offer quietness but limited resources. Parks offer inspiration but are weather-dependent, and hotel lobbies offer comfort but at a higher cost.
But when it comes to consistency and professionalism, you can’t beat a dedicated coworking space like Kickstart. Structured, reliable, and filled with opportunities to connect with other awesome folks like yourself.
So why settle for anything less when you can level up your workspace game with Kickstart Coworking Spaces? Trust me, you won’t regret it!
