Purpose: This study aims to explore the manifold implications – health, environmental and economic – of integrating coworking spaces (CSs) into residential settings. The research emphasizes the health-related potential and connected benefits of situating these contemporary spaces of work in retrofitted buildings. Design/methodology/approach: The research highlights the potential of retrofitted buildings – owing to their urban locations, existing infrastructure, and available space – to accommodate CSs. Employing the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) methodology, the paper systematically reviews literature from 2010 to 2021. It investigates the influence of residential CSs on health, community cohesion and environmental sustainability. Findings: The results indicate that integrating CSs within residential areas can significantly enhance user wellbeing, create a healthier residential environment and positively impact the broader community. Retrofitted buildings emerge as optimal venues for CSs due to their urban positioning and potential to contribute to users' physical, mental and social health. However, the strategic (re)use of retrofitted buildings is crucial, alongside planning to address potential downsides like gentrification. Research limitations/implications: The study is based on a literature review and may not fully capture the specificities of certain regional or local conditions that could affect the health benefits associated with CSs. In addition to that, the study primarily references European-centric research between 2010 and 2021, indicating a need for more diverse geographic and cultural studies. Further empirical studies are needed to validate the findings behind the following study. Practical implications: The findings of this study can guide urban planners, policymakers and architects in assessing the feasibility of converting residential buildings into CSs and planning relevant activities. They can leverage the potential health benefits to promote CSs and encourage healthier lifestyle practices in residential communities. Social implications: Introducing CSs in residential areas can lead to reduced commuting stress, opportunities for physical activities and social interactions, and healthier lifestyle practices. These benefits can enhance the overall well-being of individuals and communities, fostering a stronger social fabric in urban settings. Originality/value: This research is novel in examining the health benefits associated with CSs in residential areas and the role of retrofitted buildings in promoting such advantages.

Purpose
This study aims to enrich our understanding of the characteristics of non-urban coworking spaces (CSs) that focus on corporate users, as well as the benefits that companies expect to gain from incorporating those CSs into their corporate real estate (CRE) portfolios.

Design/methodology/approach
This study leverages a series of in-depth interviews with owners and managers of CSs in non-urban locales that focus on serving corporate clients.

Findings
The research reveals various CS characteristics and forms within non-urban areas, focusing on corporate clients. It suggests that implementing a CS in corporate premises is perceived to enhance CRE use-value strategies with a focus on the employee's well-being, innovation and the attraction of talents. Moreover, exchange-value strategies with a focus on portfolio flexibility may benefit from the implementation of a CS. However, strategies related to life-cycle cost optimization or gains are not perceived to be supported. Social events for the surrounding neighborhood and the choice of location emerge as critical success factors for non-urban CSs. Besides infrastructure and connectivity, non-urban corporate-centric CSs built their location decisions rather on a personal connection to the location and place of residence of potential users than on lower rental prices.

Originality/value
This research pioneers in providing a comprehensive understanding of non-urban CSs, particularly in the context of their perceived implications for corporate real estate management. The nuanced perspectives it offers are invaluable for stakeholders looking to leverage CSs as part of their corporate strategies.

Background and aim – The onward march of globalization led to a growing interest in understanding the interplay between cultural values and workspace perceptions. This research endeavors to elucidate how cultural differences between Germany and Turkey shape workspace perceptions of knowledge workers. The overarching objective was to understand how these cultural values are perceived to influence the working environment in both nations.

Methods / Methodology – A comparative survey analysis was executed among office workers in Germany and Turkey, probing into their workspace design preferences and their sense of well-being at work. Responses were contextualized with established cultural dimensions, particularly individualism vs. collectivism and uncertainty avoidance.

Results – The analysis pointed towards evolving workplace dynamics, with teleworking gaining traction in both countries. Intriguingly, there existed a discrepancy between cultural values and workspace preferences. Despite Germany's common portrayal as individualistic, there was a subdued preference for individual offices when contrasted with Turkey, often classified as collectivist. Additionally, the cultural dimension of uncertainty avoidance played a significant role in influencing working time preferences.

Originality – This investigation delves into a relatively uncharted territory, questioning conventional beliefs about cultural dimensions and their sway over workspace preferences. The outcomes, especially concerning Germany and Turkey, offer counterintuitive insights.

Practical or social implications – By discerning these intricate preferences, international corporations stand to benefit in crafting culturally attuned workspaces. This can foster a sense of well-being and possibly augment productivity. Moreover, it nudges us to re-examine cultural dynamics beyond the standard frameworks.