The effects of coworking spaces on local communities in the Italian context

Abstract

The phenomenon of coworking spaces has drawn particular attention by scholars only since the mid 2010s, and little is known about its effects on the urban context and more specifically on its role in fostering local communities. Within this context, the present paper provides an insight into coworking spaces in Italy, exploring their role in promoting local communities. To reach this goal, the results of a survey addressed to coworkers - those working in the coworking spaces - are presented and it is explored whether the proximity measures a là Boschma, which coworkers have experienced inside the coworking, play a role in improving both the local context and the development/ strengthening of local communities, and the working context through fostering the 'sense of community'.