Remote working is no longer a novelty. For many, it’s become a full-time setup, or at least a part-time one. While the freedom of working from anywhere with Wi-Fi has its perks, sometimes it can get a little lonely.
While we’re embracing this flexible work-life, we still crave the social interaction that comes with a traditional office. Enter co-working spaces—the best way to enjoy both autonomy and community in one space.
What to look for in a great co-working space
The perfect co-working space has more than just desks and coffee. We want a balance of the need for collaboration and focused work, so a setup that has distinct areas for both. is ideal. You’ll also want the space to tick these boxes:
A vibrant, supportive community: Usually guided by a good community manager who connects people, encourages collaboration, and creates an engaged atmosphere.
Practical and comfortable workspace: Look for ample natural light, comfortable furniture, and an inspiring ambience.
Accessibility: Essential for you and potential clients or collaborators.
Events that go beyond meet-and-greets: Look for networking or skill-building events that allow you to grow personally and professionally.
Pro tip: Flexible membership options are a must, so you can expand (or downsize) as needed.
Brunswick has some excellent co-working spots. Here are a few standout options:
Barkly Street Collective
Barkly Street Collective is a vibrant, thoughtfully crafted hub for professionals who value sustainability, innovation, and community. Located in the heart of Brunswick, just across from Wide Open Road cafe, this coworking space is designed to foster collaboration, inspire creativity, and support ambitious goals for professionals across various industries.
The space is committed to quality and low-impact materials, from responsibly sourced building materials with low embodied energy to partnerships with high-end product suppliers. It has 24 dedicated desks available to full-time members and 24/7 access, making it a flexible choice for those who need consistent workspace availability.
Its open-plan design encourages collaboration, while the 10-person private meeting room (complete with a Smart TV) offers a dedicated space for more focused discussions or client meetings. Members can enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and sparkling water, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a comfortable break-out space.
Barkly Street Collective also provides convenient amenities like a shower and change room, as well as discounted gym access at Urban Athletic, which is just nearby. The space is pet-friendly, too, so members can bring their furry companions along for the workday!
Location: 293-295 Barkly St, Brunswick VIC 3056
Gale Street Studios
Gale Street Studios offers a versatile and creative space specifically for photographers and videographers in Brunswick East. This independent studio space, housed in a spacious, converted warehouse, is designed to support creative professionals at every level—from emerging artists to established industry names.
Thoughtfully crafted with a sleek, minimalistic aesthetic, featuring polished concrete floors, high ceilings and large south-facing industrial windows that bathe the studio in natural, diffused light, this is also a dream space for capturing beautifully lit shots!
Gale Street is just a 10-minute drive from Melbourne’s CBD, and right behind Lygon Street, so a short walk from trams and plenty of cafes. Gale Street Studios offers a range of rental options at approachable rates, and you can book the space for just a few hours or for a longer-term project.
Location: 2 Gale Street, Brunswick East, 3057
Nicholson Street Studios
Nicholson Street Studios offers a friendly yet focused work environment in a light-filled warehouse (it’s Brunswick, after all). This plant-filled, open-plan studio is relaxed with a close-knit community, with desks available with flexible options based on workspace needs. There’s a photography studio, a small storage area, and very easy access to loads of cafes and amenities within walking distance.
Location: 71C Nicholson Street
Studio 4
Studio 4 is designed for professionals across various fields, from architects and graphic designers to video producers and property developers. Filled with lush indoor plants, lofty ceilings, and enormous windows, Studio 4 desks are spacious and a generous 1600x800mm.
Each workstation has a lockable caddy for personal items, as well as open shelving and additional lockable storage. There is a shared meeting room encased in translucent fibreglass, and the whole space is hosted by Mihaly Slocombe, an architecture team that makes sure the diverse patronage keeps things social and fun.
If you’re a dog lover, you’ll be pleased to know that Studio 4 is fully dog-friendly, and with access right off the Park Street bike path, you and your furry friend can get to work every day with ease.
Location: 41 Lygon Street, Brunswick East, 3057
Bell Boy Cafe
For those who like the buzz of a café, Bellboy Cafe is a fantastic alternative. Known for its relaxed vibe and strong coffee game, Bellboy Cafe offers a comfortable setup for working remotely with plenty of tables and reliable Wi-Fi. It’s ideal for those who prefer to work in a more casual atmosphere while enjoying some great food and coffee.
Location: 131 Nicholson Street, Brunswick East
Brunswick is the spot for remote workers
Brunswick doesn’t just offer great places to work but also a vibrant atmosphere for after-hours relaxation. Whether it’s grabbing a craft beer at Bridge Road Brewers or enjoying a dinner-and-movie night at FoMo Cinemas, Brunswick has you covered.
So, whether you’re logging hours at a co-working space, grabbing a drink after work, or catching a movie, Brunswick offers the complete package for remote workers!
Coming soon: The EBV development will soon be home to a new co-working space—perfect for anyone seeking a fresh, modern workspace in the heart of Brunswick.