The Perfect Workspace for Creative Minds

There’s a reason why some spaces make you want to create, while others drain your energy before lunch. After designing five Abstrakt locations, we’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a workspace actually work.

The Science of Space

Our environment affects us more than we realize. Research shows that factors like natural light, ceiling height, and even the color of walls can significantly impact creativity and focus.

But here’s the thing: There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Different types of work require different environments.

The Three Zones Every Creative Needs

After countless conversations with our members, we’ve identified three essential zones:

1. The Focus Zone

For deep work, you need:

Minimal distractions: No foot traffic, limited visual noise
Acoustic privacy: Either quiet or consistent ambient sound
Comfortable seating: You’ll be here for hours
Natural light: But not direct sunlight on your screen

At Abstrakt, our focus pods are tucked away from main pathways, with sound-absorbing panels and adjustable lighting. Members can book them for uninterrupted deep work sessions.

2. The Collaboration Zone

Creative work isn’t always solitary. You need spaces for:

Spontaneous discussions: Whiteboards, comfortable seating
Structured meetings: Rooms with proper AV equipment
Casual exchanges: Kitchen, lounge, coffee areas

The key is making these spaces inviting but not intrusive. You should be able to have a conversation without disrupting others.

3. The Recharge Zone

Creativity requires breaks. Mental downtime isn’t laziness – it’s when your brain makes connections.

Our spaces include:

Comfortable lounges: For reading, thinking, or just staring out the window
Outdoor areas: Fresh air and a change of scenery
Quiet rooms: For meditation or power naps

Design Principles That Work

Beyond zones, certain principles guide our space design:

Light Matters Most

We prioritize natural light above almost everything else. Every Abstrakt location is chosen for its windows first. Artificial lighting is warm and adjustable – no harsh fluorescents.

Variety Over Uniformity

Not everyone works the same way, and even the same person needs different setups at different times. We offer:

Standing desks and sitting desks
Private offices and open tables
Quiet corners and buzzing communal areas

Materials Create Mood

Cold, corporate materials (glass, steel, grey carpet) create cold, corporate feelings. We use:

Wood for warmth
Plants for life
Textiles for comfort
Concrete sparingly, for contrast

The Details Count

The small things add up:

Power outlets everywhere (never hunt for one)
Fast, reliable WiFi (this is non-negotiable)
Good coffee (actually good, not just available)
Clean bathrooms (always)

How to Create Your Perfect Setup

Whether you’re at Abstrakt or setting up your home office, consider:

Audit your current space: What drains you? What energizes you?
Identify your work modes: When do you need focus? Collaboration? Rest?
Experiment: Try different setups for a week each
Invest in the basics: Good chair, good light, good internet

The Abstrakt Approach

When we design a new location, we start with questions:

How will people actually use this space?
What kind of work happens here?
What’s missing in this neighborhood?

Then we prototype, test, and iterate. Our members give us constant feedback, and we’re always adjusting.

The perfect workspace isn’t a fixed destination – it’s an ongoing conversation between a space and the people who use it.

Want to see our design principles in action? Book a tour at any Abstrakt location.