Let me write a more authentic and personal take on Singapore’s CBD coworking spaces.
Finding Your Perfect Work Spot: An Insider’s Take on Singapore CBD’s Coworking Scene
After spending three years hopping between coworking spaces in Singapore’s CBD, I’ve learned one thing – forget those glossy promotional photos. The real magic happens in the tiny details that no website will tell you about.
Breaking Down the CBD’s Best
The Great Room (One George Street)
Look, I won’t sugarcoat it – this place isn’t cheap. But there’s a reason why I found myself making excuses to work late here. Maybe it was the handcrafted leather chairs that somehow fixed my terrible posture, or the barista who remembered my “slightly too strong” coffee order after just two visits. The evening networking sessions actually led to two client deals for me, which more than paid for the membership.
WeWork’s Robinson Road Hub
Here’s what surprised me about WeWork – it’s not just another sleek office space. During my three-month stint there, I witnessed a fintech startup go from two people to twelve, a freelance designer land a major client through a casual pantry chat, and yes, I may have borrowed (and never returned) a few of their excellent notebooks. The printer never works before 9 AM though – consider yourself warned.
Distrii (Republic Plaza)
Truth bomb: I initially picked Distrii because it was the closest to my favorite chicken rice stall. But their tech setup is genuinely impressive. That app they have? It saved my behind when I needed to book a last-minute client meeting while stuck in a taxi during a thunderstorm. The downside? The evening crowd thins out fast, which can feel a bit eerie if you’re pulling a late one.
The Work Project at Asia Square
This space taught me that good lighting isn’t just about looking better on video calls. Their natural light setup somehow kept me alert through countless afternoon slumps. Fair warning – their coffee is seriously good, and you might find yourself spending way too much time at the coffee bar chatting with other members. I met my current business partner there, between my third and fourth espresso of the day.
JustCo’s Marina One Space
Don’t let the eco-friendly tag fool you – this isn’t some bare-bones setup. The air is fresh (a big deal in Singapore), the chairs don’t squeak (an even bigger deal), and you’re surrounded by enough plants to feel like you’re working in a high-rise garden. Plus, the staff actually remember your name, not just your membership number.
Real Talk About Choosing Your Spot
Skip the fancy virtual tours and do this instead:
- Drop by at 10 AM on a Tuesday. That’s when you’ll see the space’s true colors
- Count the power outlets. Trust me, this matters more than the fancy furniture
- Check the lunch crowd. A half-empty space during lunch usually means it’s far from the good food spots
- Test the WiFi speed yourself. Those advertised speeds? Take them with a grain of salt
- Stay until evening. Some places turn into ghost towns after 6 PM
Hidden Perks Nobody Mentions
Did you know The Great Room members can use their shower facilities? Perfect for those pre-client meeting freshening up. Or that WeWork’s printing credits roll over to the next month? These small details often make or break the experience.
The Bottom Line
Don’t just pick a space because it looks good on Instagram. Your perfect spot might be the one with slightly worn furniture but amazing fellow members, or the quieter space that’s next to the best laksa in the CBD. After all, you’re choosing a second home, not a backdrop for your LinkedIn profile.
P.S. Most spaces offer day passes or week trials. Use them. And yes, bring your laptop and actually work there. You’ll learn more in one day of real work than from any virtual tour or brochure.