What exactly is a Third Space and why are we all craving one?

What is a Third Space?

The idea of a “third space” comes from urban sociologist Ray Oldenburg, who described it as a social environment separate from home (the first space) and work (the second space). These are places where people gather, build community, share ideas and find a sense of belonging.

Traditionally, third spaces were cafés, pubs, or community centres, informal, welcoming places where people could connect outside the pressures of work and home life. Today, co-working spaces like The Fold have become one of the most dynamic examples of third spaces, blending productivity with social connection.

Why are Third Spaces so important?

The way we work has changed dramatically over the past few years. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift toward remote and hybrid working, forever altering traditional office life. While working from home brought flexibility, many found it came with downsides: isolation, distractions, and a lack of clear boundaries between work and life.

According to a 2023 report by ONS, only 15% of UK workers were exclusively office-based post-pandemic, with the majority working remotely at least part-time.

A 2024 workplace trends survey found that 68% of employees want more choice and flexibility in where they work but also crave social interaction that working from home can’t provide.

The same survey showed that 56% of hybrid workers feel less connected to their colleagues when working remotely.

People are longing for somewhere that offers the best of both worlds. A place to focus, but also a community to belong to. That’s where third spaces step in.

Co-working spaces: The modern Third Space

• Co-working spaces, like The Fold, bring the third space to life by offering more than just a desk. They offer:

• Flexible working environments- Hot desks, private meeting rooms, quiet nooks and areas to collaborate.

• Community events - Mixers, workshops and social gatherings that get people interacting again.

• Creative inspiration - Thoughtfully designed spaces that spark ideas.

The UK co-working market reflects this shift.

The number of co-working spaces in the UK grew by nearly 20% between 2021 and 2023, according to Instant Offices.

London leads with the highest concentration, but regional hubs like Leamington Spa are rapidly catching up as demand for local third spaces grows.

Hybrid working models have boosted this trend, with businesses and freelancers alike seeking flexible workspace options closer to home.

Why The Fold?

At The Fold, we’re proud to be part of the evolving third space landscape. Our home in a historic church isn’t just beautiful, it embodies community, history and reinvention. We’re creating a place where creatives, freelancers, and local businesses can come together and build a community.

Whether you’re popping in for our monthly Treat Tuesdays, joining a creative mixer, or simply working quietly in a cosy corner, The Fold is designed to be your third space.