The difference between a business centre, coworking and a regular office: which suits your business?

Finding the right workplace can make a world of difference to the growth and success of your business. You are spoilt for choice these days: a business centre, coworking or a traditional office. But how do you know which is the best option? In this blog, we look at the features, advantages and disadvantages of each type of workplace. Spoiler: a business centre often offers the ideal balance between professionalism, flexibility and convenience.

The business centre: everything you need, worry-free

A business centre, such as WATT The Health, is a shared business building where companies can rent ready-made office spaces. Think professional premises with all the necessary facilities, such as meeting rooms, community management, fun activities for you and your staff, high-speed internet connection, parking spaces, … All this is often available on a flexible basis, allowing companies to focus on their core business without any hassles about maintenance or additional costs.

Why choose a business centre?

• Flexibility: Whether you need a small space for a few employees or a larger office unit for a growing team, a business centre adapts to your needs. You can often rent at short notice and easily scale up as your business grows.
• Fully equipped: No stress about furniture, internet or cleaning. Everything is included, so you can get started right away.
• Professional image: Receiving customers at a business centre exudes professionalism.
• Community of businesses: You share the venue with other entrepreneurs, which can create interesting collaborations and an extensive network.
• Cost-saving: Instead of separate contracts for internet, gas, water and electricity, for example, you pay one clear price.

Coworking: inspiring and social, but less private

Coworking spaces are workplaces where self-employed people, freelancers and small teams come together in an open, shared space. Coworking spaces are often full of creative professionals and have an informal, energetic vibe. If you are looking for a place to work occasionally, without your own office space, this is often a cost-effective option.

But beware, because you work in an open space, private conversations and confidential work are sometimes awkward. You also have little control over the design and look of the space, and for business client meetings, a coworking space is less suitable than a business centre.

The traditional office: independent but often cumbersome and costly

A traditional office is a space you rent or buy on a long-term basis. Here, you are fully responsible for furnishing, utility contracts and maintenance. This offers maximum freedom, but also entails higher costs and responsibilities.

In a private office, you fully decide how the space is laid out and used. There are no shared spaces or distractions from other companies. But, you not only pay rent, but also for furniture, cleaning, internet and other amenities. If your business grows or shrinks, you are often stuck with a long lease. Everything from maintenance to energy bills ends up on your plate.

Why a business centre is often the best choice

A business centre combines the benefits of coworking and a traditional office, without the drawbacks. It offers a professional look and all the facilities you need, but with the flexibility to scale up as you grow. It is the perfect place to meet like-minded entrepreneurs and expand your network. You pay one price for everything, from internet to meeting rooms.

Curious about your ideal workplace?

At WATT The Health we combine flexibility, professionalism and an inspiring environment in the heart of Ghent. Whether you are a growing start-up or an established company in the health, tech or sports sector, we have the perfect solution for your workplace with our offices ranging from 4 to 30 desks. WATT The Health will be a true ecosystem with activities and programmes aimed at growing your business.

Schedule a tour today and experience the benefits of working at WATT The Health for yourself!