Good Vibes Only: Why Workbar Feels So Dang Comfortable

If you know Workbar, it won’t be news to you that we don’t just design workplaces as just a place to clock in and clock out. We believe that a well-designed workspace goes far behind what we’re used to in a coworking space. The design fosters productivity, wellness, and meaningful connections. Our approach to coworking is rooted in intentional design choices that set us apart in the industry. It’s not just about desks and square footage—it’s about creating environments that support the perfect blend of work and life. 

The Philosophy Behind Our Design

Our design philosophy centers on the "bump and connect" approach, which encourages spontaneous interactions among members. By creating environments that promote movement and chance encounters, we aim to spark collaboration and innovation.

"We’ve always believed that people do their best work when they feel good. And the space you’re in has a lot to do with that,” Workbar CEO Sarah Travers says. 

This isn’t just a marketing mambo jumbo—it’s a design mandate. Everything from our layout to lighting is created to support how people actually work. And that’s thank in large part to our incredible architect/designer extraordinaire, Vince Pan.

Vince, Principal of Analogue Studio (the visionary team behind Workbar’s space designs), recalls, "The idea was to create a space that’s not just functional, but one that actively facilitates well-being and organic connection."

This idea is baked into every corner of Workbar. Our spaces are built to encourage movement—through open paths, diverse seating arrangements, and clear distinctions between quiet and collaborative zones.

Wellness-Centric Workspaces

Workplace wellness is not the cutting-edge idea it used to be, but it’s as trendy as ever, and as we like to humble-brag, Workbar Back Bay was the first coworking space in the world to achieve WELL Certification, reflecting our mission to bring mental and physical health and well-being to the center of work. Features like standing desks, natural light, filtered air, and access to wellness rooms are integrated into every location to support both physical and mental health.

"We wanted to make sure our members could feel energized the minute they walked in," says Travers. "That’s why we look at lighting, acoustics, ergonomics—every detail matters."

This focus on wellness isn’t just trendy—it’s essential. We spend more time at work than at home, and it’s our literal job to provide our members with environments that support both their productivity and their health. 

Workbar on Workbar

We put our money where our mouth is. Or our desks where we say we will, at least. And that’s because we don’t just design these spaces—we work in them, too! Our corporate team works out of Workbar locations just like our members. And if mamma (Sarah) ain’t happy working at Workbar, ain’t nobody (the rest of the corporate team) happy. This ever-running test-drive allows us to iterate quickly based on real, everyday experience. If something isn’t working for us, it probably isn’t working for you.

"It’s like being our own client," says Travers. "If something’s not working—if a space feels too loud or the lighting’s off—we know it, because we’re right there experiencing it."

That hands-on connection has become a powerful tool in continuously optimizing our offerings. We see firsthand how design influences behavior, productivity, and comfort, and we use those insights to make Workbar even better.

Check out our full story here: Workbar on Workbar Case Study

Differentiating Through Design

Unlike traditional offices or other coworking spaces, Workbar’s layout isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our neighborhoods—The Study, The Cafe, The Commons, and The Switchboard—are carefully curated to support different types of work. Whether you’re looking for a silent space to do heads-down work or the bustling vibe of a coffee shop, there’s a space to inspire you in all of our locations. 

"The ability to choose how and where you work during the day is something that really resonates with Workbar members," says Pan. "It’s about giving people control over their environment."

That flexibility is key. It reflects how work has evolved—and how people want to engage with third spaces today. Whether you're an introverted designer or an extroverted team leader, there’s a spot in Workbar built with you in mind.

At Workbar, design is not an afterthought—it’s a strategic tool to enhance productivity, foster community, and promote well-being. We build our spaces with intentionality, creativity, and empathy, always reaching for the more perfect blend of work and life.

Through our unique philosophy, thoughtful partnerships, and commitment to wellness, we’ve built more than just offices. We’ve built a better way to work.

Don't miss the full episode of Setting the Bar with Vince, now live on YouTube!