Finding the right coworking space in Bordeaux can be a bit of a task, especially when you're a pet owner who wants to bring your furry companion along for the workday. The city has a brilliant selection of coworking spots that cater to all sorts of professionals, from freelancers to small businesses, and some of them are even welcoming to your four-legged friends. Whether you're after a quiet corner to crack on with your freelance projects or a buzzing open space to network and collaborate, Bordeaux has something for everyone. This guide will walk you through the essentials of choosing a coworking space that suits both you and your pet, from understanding what amenities matter most to navigating the costs and finding the perfect spot in the city.
What Makes a Coworking Space in Bordeaux Truly Brilliant for You and Your Pet
When you're on the hunt for a coworking space in Bordeaux, it's not just about finding a desk and a decent cup of tea. The best spaces offer a range of services and amenities that make your working life easier and more enjoyable. For starters, reliable WiFi connectivity is non-negotiable. You need a strong and stable connection to keep up with video calls, file uploads, and all the other digital demands of modern work. Beyond the basics, look for spaces that provide comfortable furniture, access to meeting rooms, phone booths for private calls, and even event spaces where you can attend or host networking sessions. Some coworking spaces in Bordeaux go the extra mile by offering visitor management systems, desk booking platforms, and room scheduling tools, all designed to streamline your day and help you focus on what matters most.
The essential amenities every pet-friendly workspace should offer
If you're planning to bring your pet along, the amenities list grows a bit longer. A truly pet-friendly coworking space should have designated areas where dogs can relax without disturbing other members. This might include a quiet corner with water bowls, pet beds, or even a small outdoor space where your furry mate can stretch their legs. Clear pet policies are essential too. You want to know upfront what rules apply, whether there are size restrictions, and what behaviour is expected from both pets and their owners. Some spaces also offer additional perks like pet waste stations, treats, or even pet-friendly events that help build a community of like-minded professionals who share your love for animals. These thoughtful touches can make a world of difference when you're trying to balance work and pet care.
Understanding the Bordeaux Coworking Culture and Community Vibe
Bordeaux has a unique coworking culture that blends professionalism with a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere. Many spaces prioritise networking opportunities and community building, hosting regular events like workshops, talks, and social gatherings that bring members together. This sense of community is a huge draw for freelancers and small business owners who might otherwise feel isolated working from home. When visiting potential spaces, pay attention to the vibe. Is it buzzing with activity or more subdued and focused? Do people seem friendly and approachable, or is everyone glued to their screens? Finding a space where you feel comfortable and welcomed is just as important as the physical amenities. For pet owners, this also means ensuring that the community is genuinely accepting of animals and that other members are happy to share the space with your furry companion.
Navigating Costs and Membership Options: What You'll Actually Pay in Bordeaux
One of the first things to sort out when choosing a coworking space is your budget. Prices in Bordeaux can vary quite a bit depending on the location, the services offered, and the type of workspace you need. Understanding the different membership options and what you're actually getting for your money is key to making an informed decision.
Breaking down monthly fees, day passes, and hidden charges
Coworking spaces in Bordeaux typically offer a range of membership packages to suit different needs and budgets. Nomadic memberships are great if you need flexibility and don't want to commit to a fixed desk. These often start at around six euros per hour or twelve euros for a full day, though prices can climb higher in more central or premium locations. For example, Mama Works offers a mobile membership starting at five euros per hour or one hundred and ninety-nine euros per month, while spaces like Anticafé Bordeaux charge around six euros per hour. If you're planning to use the space regularly, a monthly subscription usually works out more cost-effective. Open space desks typically range from one hundred and forty-nine euros to around three hundred and thirty euros per month, depending on the space. For instance, Flex-O Euratlantique offers open space access from one hundred and forty-nine euros per month, while Ocube Coworking charges three hundred and thirty euros per month. Private offices are pricier, with costs ranging from around three hundred and fifty euros to over a thousand euros per month. W'In Tourny, located in an elegant eighteenth-century building in the heart of Bordeaux, charges one thousand two hundred euros per month for a private office. It's also worth checking for any hidden charges, such as fees for meeting room bookings, printing, or additional services. Some spaces bundle these into the membership, while others charge separately.
Finding the Right Balance Between Budget and Quality for Freelancers and Small Businesses
For freelancers and small businesses, finding the right balance between affordability and quality is crucial. A cheaper space might save you money in the short term, but if it lacks essential amenities or has a poor atmosphere, it might not be worth the savings. On the other hand, splashing out on a premium space with all the bells and whistles might not make sense if you're only using it a few times a week. Consider what you really need from a workspace. If you're mainly working solo and just need a quiet desk and WiFi, a basic open space membership should do the trick. If you're meeting clients regularly or hosting team sessions, investing in a space with well-equipped meeting rooms and a professional atmosphere makes more sense. For small teams, dedicated team offers can provide better value. Darwin Coworking, for example, offers a dedicated team package for ten employees at three hundred and thirty-five euros per workstation per month. This can be a smart choice if you want a consistent space for your team without the commitment and expense of a traditional office lease.
Pet-Friendly Perks and Practicalities: Bringing Your Furry Companion to Work
Bringing your pet to work can be a brilliant way to enhance your work-life balance and reduce stress, but it also comes with practical considerations. Not all coworking spaces in Bordeaux welcome pets, and those that do often have specific rules and guidelines in place to ensure a harmonious environment for everyone.
Which bordeaux coworking spaces welcome pets and what rules apply
While the article sources don't provide a comprehensive list of pet-friendly coworking spaces in Bordeaux specifically, the general trend in coworking globally shows that more and more spaces are opening their doors to pets, especially dogs. Research indicates that nearly eighty per cent of US workers now work remotely at least part of the week, and with forty-four per cent of US households owning a dog, the demand for dog-friendly workspaces is growing. Successful examples from other cities include Second Home in Los Angeles, Work & Woof in Austin, and Co+Hoots in Phoenix, all of which have embraced pet-friendly policies to differentiate themselves and boost member retention. When looking for a pet-friendly space in Bordeaux, ask about their pet policy upfront. Do they allow dogs of all sizes, or are there restrictions? Are pets allowed in all areas, or only in designated zones? What rules apply regarding behaviour, leashing, and supervision? Some spaces might also require proof of vaccinations or a trial period to ensure your pet is a good fit for the community. It's worth noting that around ten to twenty per cent of people suffer from pet allergies, so responsible spaces will have measures in place to accommodate both pet owners and those with allergies, such as separate seating areas or enhanced ventilation.
Making Sure Your Pet is Comfortable While You Crack On with Work
Once you've found a pet-friendly space, the next step is making sure your furry mate is comfortable and happy while you're working. Bring along familiar items like a favourite blanket or toy to help your pet settle in. Make sure they have access to water and take regular breaks for walks and toilet trips. It's also a good idea to visit the space a few times before committing to a membership, so your pet can get used to the new environment. Pay attention to how they react to the sights, sounds, and smells of the coworking space. If they seem anxious or stressed, it might not be the right fit. On the other hand, if they quickly settle down and seem content to snooze while you work, you've probably found a winner. Remember, a happy pet means a happier, more productive you. Many pet owners find that having their dog nearby during the workday reduces stress, fosters a positive work culture, and even creates unexpected networking opportunities with fellow pet-loving coworkers.
Top Coworking Spots in Bordeaux: A Local's Recommendations for Every Type of Worker
Bordeaux is home to a diverse range of coworking spaces, each with its own character and strengths. Whether you're a solo freelancer, a creative professional, or part of a growing business team, there's a space in the city that will suit your needs perfectly.
Best Spaces for Solo Freelancers and Creative Types with Pets in Tow
For freelancers and creative professionals who want a relaxed, inspiring environment, Villa Maria is hard to beat. Located in the Caudérant district, this stunning mansion covers one thousand square metres and is set within a two thousand five hundred square metre garden. It offers a unique all-inclusive package at three hundred and fifty euros per workstation per month, making it a great choice if you value space, greenery, and a peaceful atmosphere. If you're after something more central, Imagin'Office in the Amédée Saint-Germain district offers workspace in a shared office for one hundred and ninety-nine euros per month and private offices from three hundred and fifty euros per month. It's open long hours, from seven thirty in the morning until nine thirty in the evening, giving you plenty of flexibility. For those who prefer the trendy Chartrons district, La Cordée Chartrons and Ocube Coworking are both excellent options. La Cordée Chartrons starts at thirty euros per day and has an open space plus three meeting rooms, while Ocube Coworking charges thirty-three euros per day or three hundred and thirty euros per month for an open space workstation. Both spaces are known for their welcoming communities and creative vibe, though you'll need to check directly with them about pet policies.
Ideal Coworking Hubs for Small Teams and Growing Businesses
If you're working with a small team or growing business, you'll want a space that offers more than just desks. Darwin Coworking in the Bastide neighbourhood is a fantastic choice, with eighteen meeting rooms and a large open space. It offers a dedicated team package for ten employees at three hundred and thirty-five euros per workstation per month, making it ideal for teams that need a consistent, professional environment. Mama Works in the Bacalan district is another excellent option, with a massive three thousand square metres of space. It offers flexible membership options, including Mama Mobile at five euros per hour or one hundred and ninety-nine euros per month, Mama Desk at two hundred and ninety-nine euros per month, and Mama Office at three hundred and seventy-nine euros per month. For a more upmarket experience, Signature by Regus in Bordeaux's Golden Triangle offers coworking offices at four hundred and forty-nine euros per workstation per month and private offices at four hundred and ninety-nine euros per workstation per month. This is a smart choice if you need a prestigious address and a polished, professional setting for meeting clients. Whatever your needs, Bordeaux has a coworking space that can support your work, your budget, and even your furry companion.
