I have worked from home for 3 years now. To be perfectly honest, I'm getting a little tired of asking for feedback on my design work from my cats. I recently found out about a new trend where lonely folks like myself can open their home to those needing a workspace for the day!
The most intriguing part of this idea is that it doesn't require a designated working space. Chelsea in San Francisco shares her sofa for free to anyone looking for company while getting their work done. Loosecubes, a site that finds coworking atmospheres all over the world allows people like Chelsea to list their space, be it a sofa, desk, or entire office.
I'm really considering opening my home to some coworkers. It's a great way to not only make a profit (if you have a larger space) but receive feedback on your current projects. Sites like Loosecubes also provide huge studio spaces for coworkers, but I find it incredibly intriguing that I would never have to leave my home!
What do you think about opening your home to coworking? Would you trust someone coming into your home? Would you enjoy hosting like-minded people in order to get some work done?
Image: Loosecubes
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I like the idea, but I do have concerns about safety.
Probably not my own home to a stranger - someone I knew maybe. But I do like the idea of making a profit by renting out office space. I think it would be interesting to work in the same room with people in all different types of job fields instead of the sea of cubicles filled with everyone doing the same thing (and griping to one another about it). As long as everyone is respectful of space and noise I think it would be neat!
nope. maybe if I were agoraphobic, but unless if were a rental agreement (deposit, first & last, they come & go as they please, have a key) like a housemate situation, there's no way I'd want a complete stranger or stream of strangers in my home. Pets, valuables, safety, etc etc.
This looks like a great resource. Thanks for pointing it out.
I think it has more potential between or among friends or friendly neighbors with sufficient self-discipline. It could be done at different homes in rotation.
It sounds sort of like a silent study group.
But then I would have to get dressed to stay home and work.
There may be legal issues with renting out space in your home for profit. See the recent problems Airbnb is dealing with:
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/08/03/BUR41KIB6A.DTL
Renters' and HOA agreements also might prohibit this type of use.
It sounds like a great way to conceal "sensual massage parlors." I'd be afraid of being mistaken for a floozy.
haha, some good comments.
I work from home too, and cherish the productivity and privacy!
You know what I miss about working in an office? Hmmm. I can´t think of anything.