Working from home is out. Working near home is in.
The last few years turned the world of work upside down. For many, the kitchen table became the office and living rooms doubled as meeting rooms. But now, the work from home era is evolving and a new trend is emerging: working near home.
Wednesday 6 August 2025
Across the UK, and especially here in the Midlands, professionals and businesses are shifting away from full-time home working, opting instead for flexible workspaces closer to where they live. This shift is reshaping how we think about productivity, community and work-life balance.
Why the shift from home to nearby workspaces?
Working from home offered flexibility and convenience during lockdowns, but it also came with challenges - isolation, distractions and blurred boundaries between work and personal life. As restrictions eased, many workers realised that while remote work had its perks, it wasn’t sustainable as a long-term solution.
Here’s what recent research tells us:
According to a 2023 Office for National Statistics (ONS) report, only 15% of UK workers remain exclusively office-based, but a growing number are opting for a “third option” - flexible workspaces near home.
A Midlands Engine 2024 economic review highlights that the Midlands region is seeing a 25% increase in demand for local co-working and flexible office spaces over the past two years.
A Workplace Trends 2024 survey found that 70% of UK employees want the option to work close to home, citing reduced commute times and improved wellbeing as key benefits.
In the Midlands, with its mix of urban centres and commuter towns, this preference is particularly strong. Workers are seeking vibrant, local workspaces that provide community without the stress of long commutes.
The Midlands: A hub for flexible, local workspaces
The Midlands has always been a thriving centre for innovation and business, and its growing flexible workspace market is no exception. Cities like Birmingham, Coventry, Leicester and towns like Leamington Spa are fast becoming hotspots for professionals wanting to work near home.
The rise of flexible offices and co-working spaces in the region reflects this demand:
Instant Offices reports a 20% growth in Midlands co-working spaces from 2021 to 2023, with many new hubs opening outside of traditional city centres.
The Midlands government has invested in infrastructure and workspace initiatives to support this shift, aiming to boost local economies and reduce commuter traffic.
Surveys from regional business groups show that flexible workspace providers are seeing an influx of freelancers, remote workers and small businesses looking for affordable, community-focused environments.
Benefits of working near home
Working near home isn’t just about location; it’s about creating a balanced, sustainable work routine that supports both professional goals and personal wellbeing. Here’s why it’s resonating so strongly:
Better work-life balance: Shorter commutes mean more time for family, exercise and hobbies.
Improved mental health: Local workspaces help reduce isolation and encourage social interaction.
Boosted productivity: Purpose-built environments offer fewer distractions than home, with better resources and community support.
Environmental impact: Reduced travel lowers carbon footprints, supporting greener living.
How The Fold fits into this new way of working
Located in Leamington Spa, The Fold is perfectly placed to serve the Midlands’ growing need for flexible workspaces near home. Our beautifully converted 19th-century church offers inspiring, adaptable work environments designed to help freelancers, start-ups and local businesses flourish without the hassle of commuting.