Showers in Coworking Spaces: A Must-Have or a Complicated Extra?

Should I offer one or more showers in my coworking space? This is a question many operators ask themselves, and rightly so. The decision affects not only space planning but also ongoing costs, hygiene processes, and the overall community experience.

Duschen

Why Showers Are Even a Topic

Coworking spaces have long been more than just desk rentals. Anyone founding a space today or repositioning an existing one knows that users expect flexibility, comfort, and amenities that fit their lifestyle. For many, that includes the ability to freshen up.

Typical scenarios:

  • Cycling to work, especially in urban areas.
  • Jogging during lunch breaks or after work.
  • Freelancers who use the space part-time and want to shower before or after a meeting.

Why Say Yes to Showers in Coworking Spaces: The Top Benefits

Expanded target audience: Offer services others don’t, attract health-conscious, active members.

Increased comfort: Those who can freshen up are more likely to stay longer or return more often.

Premium positioning: Showers send a signal: Work culture is taken seriously here, from A to Z.

Better space utilization: Combine showers with day passes, events, or fitness offerings.

But Be Careful: These Challenges Must Be Addressed

Tempting as the advantages may be, showers in coworking spaces also come with concrete requirements that shouldn’t be underestimated in your planning.

Structural Requirements

  • Water supply, drainage, hot water boiler – not every older building is suitable.
  • Accessibility? If you’re building, do it right – consider your local construction regulations.

Investment and Operating Costs

  • Installation costs: $/€1000s depending on design and setup.
  • Ongoing expenses: Water, electricity, ventilation, and regular maintenance.

Hygiene & Cleaning

  • Showers must be cleaned daily and this needs to be budgeted.
  • Drains, tiles, and curtains require regular care to prevent mold and odors.
  • Who is responsible for mess or damages? Clear house rules are essential.

User Management

  • Restrict access via keycard or app? Clear rules help prevent misuse.
  • Users should be informed in advance, for example about maximum shower times, cleanliness, and courtesy towards other users.

Towels, Shower Gel & More – Who Takes Care of It All?

This is an aspect often underestimated, but it’s where premium service and pragmatic solutions diverge:

Option A: Self-Service by Users: Minimal effort.

Requires clear communication: “Please bring your own towel and shower gel.”

Lockers or hooks should be available.

Option B: Towel & Shower Kit Service

Additional service, often as a paid add-on: towel, shower gel, shampoo set.

Can be booked via app or at the reception.

Ideal for spontaneous users or comfort-oriented customers.

Option C: Partnership with Laundry Service or Fitness Studio

Towels cleaned and provided regularly.

Higher costs but also better service quality.

Important: Offering a higher level of service comes with legal considerations (e.g. product liability for shower gel).

Practical Solutions from the Field

  • Access to showers only for members with upgrade package or day guests with option.
  • Booking system for peak times to help avoid queues.
  • Cleaning and restocking checklists, integrated into facility management systems.
  • Towel rental with QR-code payment that is simple, transparent, scalable.

This new challenge definitely calls for a solid operational concept, but with the right preparation, showers can become a true unique selling point for your space.