Freelance workplaces in Bangkok

It has been a long time ago, I think at the end of the eighties, that Interpolis opened a new office in Tilburg with a special concept. Employees no longer had their own workplace, but if they did not work from home, they came to the office and took a seat at a random desk. They logged on to the computer network and were able to carry out their work.

I was reminded of this “office revolution” when I read an article in The Nation about freelance workplaces in Bangkok. A freelance workplace is part of a larger office, which is rented by (usually) young entrepreneurs. It is cheaper than renting space yourself and setting it up as an office, while having all the facilities of a modern office at your disposal.

It is not a typical Thai idea, because these flexible offices have existed in all major cities elsewhere in the world for some time. I saw an offer for a flexible workplace in Amsterdam, which you can rent per day and get a nice discount if you pay by means of a strip card. Typical Dutch, I think! In any case, a flexible workplace is an attractive option for freelance professionals and other self-employed people who find it too lonely or too disruptive at home.

Wandering through one of these shared offices looking for a desk and you will see a company of graphic designers, copywriters, programmers, young entrepreneurs, foreign businessmen and many others working there.

Click desk

Take, for example, the Klique Desk at Sukhumvit Soi 23. On the second floor of the Shinawatra Building, which itself has a rather old-fashioned structure, you will find a 300 m² modern office with all possible modern office and meeting facilities. Klique Desk has two multifunctional meeting rooms, complete with projector and television and other media tools, a “hot desk zone” with 14 flexible workplaces. Of course there is high speed WiFi available, as well as a payphone for private calls and online conferences, a copier, printer, scanner and fax. There's even a small pantry with fridge, microwave and coffee maker where you can help yourself to complimentary drinks and a selection of snacks. Prices start at 200 Baht per day for a shared workplace up to 17.000 Baht per month for a private office. Klique Desk provides the user with a business address and a bilingual receptionist who processes incoming e-mails and answers the telephone when absent.

hubba

Another co-working space provider is Hubba, somewhat tucked away in a two-story residential house with a shady courtyard on Soi Ekamai 4. Hubba is in fact the pioneer of the phenomenon in Bangkok, which opened two years ago. It is still the most popular place for foreign businessmen and expats. Hubba was set up for people who had had enough of working in coffee shops and is still expanding the service.

Prices here range from 265 Baht per day to 36.500 Baht per year. The interior of the office space is minimalistic and offers space, inside and outside, for 50 visitors. Highspeed internet connection, office equipment, an equipped kitchen are also available here. In addition, Hubba has two fully equipped meeting rooms, where small seminars or workshops can be held. .

Both owners and users of shared office space are enthusiastic about its use. The owners: “We offer independent workers and starting entrepreneurs in the IT and media world all office facilities at an attractive price. The users: “It's a great opportunity not to have to work at home or in a coffee shop. Moreover, you work in a community of like-minded people and that also creates a bond.

To note:

• Click desk is on the second floor of the Shinawatra Building, Sukhumvit Soi 23, near BTS Asoke. It is open daily from 09:00-07:00. Call (02) 105 6767 or visit www.Kliquedesk.com .
• hubba is located on Ekamai Soi 4 ​​. It is open daily from 09:00 to 22:00. Call (02) 714 3388 or visit www.HubbaThailand.com.

Source: The Nation