The global coworking market is estimated to grow to $11.52 billion in 2023 from $9.27 billion in 2019. This growth will be underpinned by new work trends such as the emerging hybrid work models resulting  from the pandemic as well as the overarching themes of quality and flexibility that were evident in the market,  pre-pandemic.

Africa is no different, as increase in its startups have led to the need of flexible working spaces, and in general the demand of co-working spaces. In this article, we narrow down on Nairobi’s office market, the demand drivers of  co-working spaces, as well as its available  supply.

 

SMES and tech sectors are the main drivers of demand for coworking spaces in Nairobi

Over the past decade, Nairobi’s office market  has continued to see the number of its co-working spaces rise dramatically.The vibrant tech and SMEs sectors have underpinned this demand, with co-working spaces being deemed as a cheaper and more flexible option compared to the traditional office space.

The pandemic has further accelerated this trend.  Anecdotal evidence suggests that right sizing in the wake of staff reductions, the  need for cheaper rents as well as the decentralization of work spaces from core hubs are all driving renewed demand for coworking spaces. 

So far, Estate Intel estimates that there are about sixty (60) co- working spaces in Nairobi with a majority of them being in Westlands, Upperhill, CBD, and Karen areas. These spaces comprise private offices, dedicated desks and flexible desks. Furthermore, they feature amenities and facilities such as  gym services, free refreshments and parking spaces. 

 

The need for more collaborative spaces is set to underpin future demand

Additionally, the emergence of remote working is also impacting occupier’s attitudes towards office requirements. Demand for coworking spaces is now underpinned by the need for more collaborative spaces and amenities that would naturally result in high occupancy costs in individual set ups. As such, across Nairobi, spaces such as Kofisi and Nairobi Garage are gaining greater prominence due to the availability of entrepreneurial focused networking events and workshops.

Below we highlight some of the top co-working spaces in Nairobi that are recording increased demand as well as their corresponding prices;

1. Kofisi 

Kofisi has a total of ten co-working spaces in Africa and five of them are in Nairobi. They are bespoke co- working spaces uniquely designed to suit the needs of individual clients. 

• Locations:

        Westlands – Keystone Park, 95 Riverside Drive, Eden Square

        Upperhill   – Landmark plaza

        Karen       –  Karen Blixen

• Cost Range: From $150 – $250 per month 
• Hours: 24/7 access
• Amenities: 

       Fully-furnished offices 

       High-speed WiFi & back up power

       Storage options

       Daily cleaning

       Printing & bureau facilities

       Free refreshments.

 

2. Regus 

Regus has presence in over 120 countries globally and 21 in African countries.They have achieved  to build a community of 2.5 million professionals.  Their offices have moden designs and facilities. 

• Locations:

       Upperhill –  Britam towers 

       Kilimani – Laiboni center, Vienna court 

       CBD – Ushuru Plaza, ICEA building

       Westlands – Midlands museum hill, Delta corner, Delta corner tower 2, Purshottam place

       Gigiri –  VIllage market 

• Cost Range: From $100 – $200 per  month 
• Hours: 24/7 access
• Amenities: 

       24-hour surveillance monitoring

       Outside Seating Area/Terrace

       Secure underground parking

       Elevator

       Break-Out Areas

 

3. The Mint hub 

The mint hub was among the first co- working spaces in Kenya opened in 2010.  They offer unique and affordable co-working spaces options at the heart of westlands. 

• Location:

       Westlands- Western Heights

• Cost Range: From $100 – $220 per  month 
• Hours: 24/7 access
• Amenities: 

       HighSpeed Internet

       Receptionist services

       Storage/locker

       Shared kitchen area and Free tea and coffee

       Cleaning & security

       Lounge

       Skype booths

 

4. Nairobi Garage

Aside from providing a shared office space, Nairobi garage has networking events, workshops and corporate evenings to support budding businesses in building a network and partnership base.

• Location:

       Kilimani – Pinetree plaza 

       Westlands – Delta corner annex , The promenade

       Karen – Cove Court watermark 

• Cost Range: From $93.25 – $211.95 per month 
• Hours: 24/7 access
• Amenities: 

       High-Speed Internet

       Onsite Staff

       Cleaning Services

       Phone Booths

       In-house cafe

       Garden Seating

       Training Room

 

5. Ikigai

Ikigai is a Japanese concept that means reason for being. The co- working spaces are beautifully designed and wellness focused for individuals, start-ups and large enterprises. 

• Location:

       Westlands – Peponi road, Lower kabete, Riverside 

       Lavingnton – James Gichuru road

• Cost Range: From $169.5 -$211.95
• Hours: 24/7 access
• Amenities: 

       Phone Booths

       Printing

       Handicap Accessible

       Complimentary Yoga

       Dog Friendly

       Lunch On-Site

       Meditation

       Prayer Room

       Mother’s Room

 

6. Workable 

The stunning co-working space comes with exceptional features like a private terrace area, electric stand desks, sound insulation and individual temperature control. 

• Location: 

        Westlands – Sanlam towers

 

 

7. Workify

Located at ABC Place, Westlands, this co- working space offers a warm and cozy atmosphere for work. The offices are well designed with plenty of natural light. 

• Location:

       ABC place Westlands 

• Cost Range: From $ 16.95- $144.12
• Hours: 24/7 access
• Amenities: 

       Coffee & Tea

       WiFi

       Locker Storage

       Reception Service

       Phone Booths.

 

8. Indigo co working 

Indigo Cowork Space offers members a unique work experience in a custom-built modern working space surrounded by greenery, natural light & fresh air.

• Location:

       Westlands – General Mathenge 

• Cost: From $ 175  per month 
• Hours: 24/7 access
• Amenities: 

       Coffee & Tea

       WiFi

       Locker Storage

       Skype room and art gallery

       Workshops and mentorship programs 

 

9. Workstyle Africa

Workstyle is ideally designed to accommodate the creative community.

• Location:

       Westlands – Muthangari Drive 

• Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
• Amenities: 

       High-Speed Internet

       Front Desk Service

       Lounge & Kitchenette

 

10. Jenga Leo 

This is one of the most vibrant co-working spaces in Nairobi. It offers additional features such as the  rooftop gym concierge, podcast Studio, sky Deck and cultural programs.

• Location:

       Westlands-  Westpark Towers

• Cost Range: From $127.7 –  $156.8 per month 
• Hours: 24/7 access
• Amenities: 

       Complimentary Tea

       Coffee & Fruit Water

       Wellness

       Prayer & Lactating Room

       Rooftop Gym

       Library Zone

       Rooftop Cafe Bar

       Communal Kitchen

 

 

From our findings, the highest monthly charge for a dedicated desk is about Ksh. 29,000 ($245.8) in Kofisi co-working space, while the lowest is Ksh.12,000 ($101.7) in Workable. 

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