NATIONAL UNIVERSITY – MANILA

ACADEMIC YEAR 2022-2022

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE

A RESEARCH ABOUT THE DESIGN PROJECT: COWORKING SPACE FOR

START-UP BUSINESS IN ADESGN2S SUBJECT

ASSIGNMENT TITLE: COWORKING SPACE – REVIEW OF RELATED

LITERATURE

GROUP 5 (ARC22F):

RODRIGUEZ, DIANA ANN MAY

SITON, ROMMEL MICHAEL

SORIANO, KARYLLE DIMPLE

ZABALA, DAENIELLE

APRIL 2023
 Review of Related Literature

Theme Definition and Related Literature

The idea of "freedom" in design has been extensively discussed and used

in a number of different design fields. The ability of designers to denounce

established design conventions and investigate novel ideas for originality,

creativity, and self-expression has been referred to as "freedom" in the literature.

According to Bejan (2012), freedom is good for design. Freedom is the

sine qua non condition for improvements over time. The use of freedom as a

design principle in the creation of sustainable architecture was the subject of one

study that was published in the Journal of Design Research. In their article

(Gladstone & Vakkayil, 2018), the authors made the case that architects can

design buildings that are not only visually stunning but also more environmentally

and socially responsible by abstaining from conventional design norms and

utilizing more experimental and innovative approaches to design.

In the field of architecture, it has been demonstrated that the idea of

"breaking free from conventional design" has a wide range of potential

applications and advantages. Architects can design structures that inspire and

engage the public in addition to serving their functional purposes by pushing the

boundaries of what is practical and encouraging experimentation and creativity.

Italian designer Bruno Munari discusses the significance of abdicating

conventional design in his book "Design as Art," which outlines how to produce

objects that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and
emotionally compelling. According to Munari (2008), designers should be free to

experiment with new materials, forms, and techniques in order to produce truly

unique and memorable designs. Design should be seen as a form of artistic

expression.

Architects like Zaha Hadid and Frank Gehry have made references to

"breaking free from conventional design" in their works. The Heydar Aliyev

Center in Baku, Azerbaijan, and the MAXXI Museum in Rome, Italy, are two

examples of how Hadid's designs defy conventional architectural norms by

combining fluid forms and cutting-edge technology to produce creative, useful

spaces. In terms of form, structure, and materiality, Gehry's designs for the Walt

Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles and the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in

Spain both push the envelope. For these designers, the word "Freedom" is

closely associated with the notion of experimentation, as well as with the

willingness to take chances and embrace uncertainty in the search for fresh and

creative design approaches.

In conclusion, the creative process in design must include getting away

from conventional design. It encourages self-expression, innovation, and

creativity, improves user experience, and supports sustainability. Therefore,

designers should keep looking at new ideas and deviate from established design

conventions to produce designs that captivate and foster individuals.

Local and Global Industry Report on Start-Up Business

Local Industry Report:

According to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Philippines

is evolving into a prime location for startups due to the supportive environment it

provides as well as its pool of highly qualified workers.

In accordance with Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual, the startup

ecosystem in the Philippines is expanding at a 20 percent rate, reflecting the trust

of investors in and interest in the country as a potential investment destination.

Pascual (2023) stated that being in the nascent stages of its startup

ecosystem development, the Philippines is one of the actively emerging

ecosystems across the region. It is home to a very young, tech-savvy population,

putting the startup scene at the center of an innovation-based program.

The Philippines has implemented laws to further facilitate ease of doing

business in order to draw startups and other types of investments to the nation,

in addition to policy reforms that facilitate the creation of a healthy business

environment.

Global Industry Report:

With startups appearing in many different industries around the world, the

global startup industry has recently seen notable growth. The United States,

China, and the United Kingdom were named as the top three startup ecosystems
globally in a report by Startup Genome, though it also recognized the growth of

other ecosystems in places like Latin America, the Middle East, and Southeast

Asia.

The majority of startups worldwide operate in the technology sector, with

software development, fintech, and e-commerce being popular fields. However,

the report also highlighted the emergence of startups in industries like renewable

energy, health tech, and education tech.

According to the report, the top three difficulties faced by startups

worldwide are government regulations, difficulty finding talent, and access to

funding. The report made the recommendation that governments and businesses

continue to fund initiatives that foster the development of startup ecosystems and

assist in resolving these issues.

The global startup industry is poised for continued growth and success in

the upcoming years thanks to the emergence of creative startups in a variety of

industries and the ongoing support of governments and private sector

organizations.
Building Typology

Coworking Space

In recent years, as more people adopted flexible working arrangements,

coworking spaces have grown in popularity which conclude that these spaces

can lead to increased productivity, creativity, and innovation. Where thus, a

coworking space is a shared office environment where individuals or businesses

can work independently, yet in the same space as others. The space is often

created to be collaborative, which focuses on community and networking.

The concept of coworking spaces appears as a key to respond to the

changing nature of work and the growing demand for flexible and collaborative

workspaces. Coworking spaces can be beneficial for individuals and businesses

as they offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional office space, provide

opportunities for networking and collaboration, and offer a more flexible and

dynamic work environment. As we experienced the pandemic years ago, people

seek out more flexible work arrangements which allows them to work from any

location while still being part of the supportive community.

However, a coworking space also contains possible downfall, in which it is

stated that the spaces are collaborative with other people, which means you are

not only by yourself so it may lack some privacy. As you interact with other
people, you cannot avoid the surrounding noises unless it is one of the rules

inside a coworking space. So, it may not be suitable for individuals who require a

quiet and private workspace.

Therefore, coworking spaces provide a flexible and cost-effective solution

which can help individuals and organizations find a modern and dynamic

workspace that promotes collaboration, networking, and community.

User Activities

The provided spaces in coworking spaces should allow the users to work

and learn properly in one cooperative space. Particularly, the shared workspaces

could be a gain from each one of them as they have access to work with different

people and work in the same physical location. Well, in that case, broad

knowledge and skills can be explored through a coworking space. There are

common user activities that are engaged among the members of a coworking

space, where at some point, it helps to increase productivity, creativity and

innovation.

Collaborative
One of the main purposes of a coworking space, it offers and advocates

the users to share and interact among themselves which can result in a better

working environment.

Networking and socializing

 It provides opportunities to network with other professionals and it could

be helpful to those individuals who seek to build a connection between the

members that will influence and improve the work itself because they

share ideas and resources that will be able to open up new business

opportunities.

To Work and Learn

It is the central principle of a coworking space, the users can use the

space individually or collaboratively. There will be instances that a member must

work on a designated project solely, yet need some feedback and

suggestions among the others. That is why the spaces provided should

meet the necessities to get a work done properly.

Space Requirements

A coworking space should provide spaces that consider the number of

users in which, if it is enough to accommodate a specific amount of people, the

basic necessities, the layout of the space, the structure itself and the type of work

they will execute. These are some factors that need to be studied to offer and

provide spaces based on the needs and wants of the users.

1. Working Spaces
 In this type of business, a coworking space requires a variety of working

space such as private rooms or offices, furniture like desk that can be shared or

individually, spaces for meeting events, like meeting rooms and other furniture

that will enhance the idea of a coworking space.

2. Desk Spaces

One of the most needed equipment in a coworking space, there should be

enough spaces that an individual can execute movement freely within 50 to 100

square feet. Considering the size and the position of the desk is one of the

factors to meet the desired spaces.

3. Common Areas

These areas include such bathrooms, kitchen or pantry, storage etc. Find

and locate the perfect spot with these areas to make the users use it with

comfort.

4. Circulation Space

An open space layout is common within coworking spaces to provide a

flexible and collaborative environment. Thus, proper circulation is required to

allow members to move around freely and access different areas within the

coworking space.
 5. Lounge areas

These areas can be used as a space for relaxation and accommodating

guests. It may depend on the preferred layout, but since this kind of space should

be open and wide, it is a must to require this kind of space.

Hisatorical Development

As time goes by, the whole idea of a coworking space has evolved which

has led to a growing interest in coworking spaces from any larger corporations as

well, who are looking for ways to integrate these flexible workspaces into their

own work environments. Eventually, as the needs of remote workers and

entrepreneurs continue to change, coworking spaces are likely to continue to

adapt and innovate in order to meet those needs.

The concept of coworking space was first developed by Brad Neuberg in

2005. Neuberg, a freelance software developer in San Francisco, realized that he

missed the sense of community and collaboration that comes with working in an

office environment. He founded the first coworking space, called the "Hat

Factory," in San Francisco.

After that, the idea of a coworking space influenced others and many were

able to adapt to the trend which expanded in different cities. In 2006, the first
coworking space in New York was jelly, it encouraged remote workers to move

into one space.

Until 2012, many coworking spaces have been established as many

entrepreneurs and corporations acknowledge the significance of it.

As time went by, it continued to grow. Coworking spaces have expanded

beyond just shared workspaces to offer a range of amenities like fitness centers,

game rooms, and on-site cafes. Many spaces have also started to offer

educational and networking opportunities to their members.

Case Study for Best and/or Poor Practice

Local:

There are countless positive amenities that a good coworking space

brings to its users. Coworking spaces provide a stimulating atmosphere that can

be beneficial for students who are taking classes since it increases their

productivity by offering an atmosphere for work that is beneficial for productivity

despite the constraints of an actual workplace or the interruptions at home.

Customers are free to use the workplace in any way that enables them to

establish connections with the individuals with whom they are sharing it, thus

opening up possibilities for friendships and partnerships. Some of the coworking

places weren't quite as costly as individuals might have thought. In accordance

with Coworking spaces: An overview and research agenda of Howell (2022),

people who sign up for a coworking office plan pay a fee that includes not just the

usage of the office space but also any amenities they would need to work
comfortably. Costs fluctuate based on the period of time and inclusions, however.

It frequently consists of a quick connection to the internet, printing as well as

scanning capabilities, contact access, a room for conference use, and limitless

coffee, water, or tea. The most effective approach in coworking spaces is to

encourage clients to appear engaged. It also offers both discrete meeting spaces

for groups and individual workstations. Workplaces also deliver a fast internet

connection since a speedy internet connection is essential, especially for

learners who are going there because they need a stable internet to do their

tasks smoothly, and having a very slow one may affect their work. As most

people using coworking spaces are from the same university or have similar jobs,

this is another great way that coworking spaces benefit their clients. Additionally,

it encourages the opportunity for professionals to interact with one another and

establish trusting bonds. And it's undeniable that coworking spaces make people

feel like they are part of a group with common interests. People are also inspired

to work hard by watching effective individuals strive.

Although a coworking space offers a lot of best practices to its clients,

some also have bad practices like having distraction or loudness. Because not

everyone can work productively in an environment with very unpleasant noise,

we couldn't deny that uncontrollable noise is one of the major concerns in large

coworking spaces. Unfortunately, it takes courage to offer suggestions to one

group to reduce it. Another drawback to this kind of business is the constrained

space in some coworking locations. Since customers are not permitted to alter

the space according to their liking. And while several coworking spaces have
relatively reasonable prices, others are still somewhat expensive, even though

pricing varies depending on inclusions and conditions. As was already

mentioned, coworking spaces offer space, workers, and equipment as part of the

amenities they provide, which explains why some charge more than others.

Nevertheless, some workplaces continue to offer the same benefits at less

expensive rates. Additionally, because it is a coworking space, clients share the

same space with other users, making it less likely for them to feel secure and

private because it is open to the public.

In conclusion, some of the best practices a coworking space offers are

delightful surroundings, affordability, an opportunity to engage with others, a

stable internet connection, and the possibility to meet with individuals who share

our passions. While privacy and security are some of its adverse effects, others

include loudness and being a source of distraction.

Foreign:

Coworking Spaces share a broad range of standard procedures so that

they can satisfy their potential customers with what they are able to provide.

Speedy internet access links, an appealing atmosphere in which one can work

and conduct research, and social support are just a few instances. The providers

will gain from establishing solid practices in coworking spaces because it can

increase the number of their customers, who will undoubtedly be satisfied.

Furthermore, the pleasure of its customers will be ensured by having a

welcoming community and teamwork while still keeping it very quiet and

maintaining the aspect of confidentiality.

 The best practices a coworking space provides depend on both the

environment and the individuals who are utilizing it. The first impression a client

has is of being welcomed with open arms. In light of this, employers must train

their staff to be more engaging. Also, certain coworking space employees are

aware of their boundaries in relation to the area, respect each client, and are

actually willing to assist. For instance, some employees are willing to provide

their clients with complimentary drinks to help them feel at home. An essential

strategy for working in a coworking space is to create a space that has a serene

feel. Customers are bound to be inspired to keep working or studying as a result.

The ideal conditions that a coworking space can provide also include social

support. Friendships made in a coworking environment can help clients cope with

some of the stressors they may experience when using a coworking facility.

Since a lack of empathy and encouragement can drive people to doubt what they

can do, having companions is beneficial.

On the other hand, generating distractions is one of the detrimental

practices a coworking space could employ since, as was already said, it can

result in a reduction in people's productivity. Coworking spaces have advantages

for clients, but there are also drawbacks. Coworking areas can occasionally be

congested, particularly during exam season at a university when students are

more likely to study. Other individuals occasionally couldn't help but talk to one

another, walk around, and consume food while in the working area, which could

be annoying to some of the others nearby. We also couldn't contend that working
or studying in a noisy environment isn't the best because it can lower satisfaction

and efficiency.

Overall, even though having fast Wi-Fi connections, an optimal setting for

working and studying, and social interaction from other users of a coworking

space could make the people satisfied by adopting it as their best practices,

failing to minimize distractions in the area could be a reason to lessen their future

clients. For this reason, coworking spaces must make every effort to provide

nothing but the very best for their future clients.

Site Profile

Location

The street "San Sebastian" has the zip code 1001 and is situated in the

northeast of Quiapo. It measures 377 meters or thereabouts. While with the zip

code 1001, "Bilibid Viejo Street" is situated in Quiapo's northern section. It has

two lanes and is roughly 332 meters long. Streetdir (2019).

Climate Trends

According to the article written by weather spark (2022), around Bilibid

Viejo St and San Sebastian St. experiences a hot, miserable, windy, and cloudy

climate. The average annual temperature ranges from 74 to 91 degrees

Fahrenheit, rarely falling below 71 or rising above 94. The monthly rainfall in this

area varies greatly by season. It has rained all year long. With an average rainfall

of 13.4 inches, December is the wettest month. Meanwhile, with an average

rainfall of 4.0 inches, April is the driest month in this area.

Social Considerations

The said area can be found at Quiapo, Manila. And based on the article

written by Philippine Historic Reservation Society (2021), they said that Quiapo is

a chaotic, weakened version of what it once was. Numerous social and

environmental problems plague it, including poverty, a lack of prospects for

employment, poor housing conditions, environmental degradation, and hostility

amongst people who are Christians and Muslims.

Hazards

According to Dela Cruz (2013), she stated that city of Manila is highly

vulnerable to earthquakes and other hazards. It was stated that Manila is the

second-most dangerous city in the world after Tokyo. It's susceptibility to

earthquakes is another factor contributing to this, in addition to floods. The

vicinity of Manila is home to two significant fault lines. The West Valley Fault is

the first, which, according to scientists, has the potential to move and cause an

earthquake with a magnitude of 7.2. A 7.9-magnitude earthquake could be

caused by the Manila Trench fault line, which is second.

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