wework

Compromise: When everyone looses something.

Thats how I feel about cubicles. They are neither private or communal. Something brought to by a forgotten era of work. Fortunately companies are searching for something better. Enter wework, a company the retrofits existing space (usually old factories) into a collection of private offices, very private phone booths, large open floors of desks, and conference rooms. You choose what you want when you need it. There are currently 3 locations in Boston, housing over 5000 people and 100s of companies. Everything from large insurance companies to one man start ups.

My company is looking to experiment for the summer in such a venture. The Doc and I went and got a tour of the locations. They provide the office space, desk, chairs, custodial, internet, food (tea/coffee/water/beer). Thats right each floor has a stocked kitchen. Did I mention local draft beer on tap? Some are pet friendly. The atmosphere in the open spaces is one of soft-spoken nerds discussing who knows what with new found friends. The offices are quiet, but open feeling as they are all glassed in to let natural light penetrate.