How the CEO of Lucid Private Offices Merged Coworking with Conventional Office Space

The modern workplace is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and as consumers lean further away from being “locked in” to services or deals, the age-old question of where to set up shop has taken on new dimensions. Is it better to embrace the flexibility and vibrancy of a coworking space, or to opt for the traditional, dedicated office?

I sat down with Flip Howard, the Principal of Lucid Private Offices and a 20+ year veteran in the industry, to dissect the pros and cons of each option and how his company aggressively pursued the exciting middle ground.

Coworking: Embracing Flexibility and Community

Flip highlighted the key advantages of coworking spaces:

• Flexibility and Ease: Coworking offers unparalleled flexibility. Move in quickly with minimal upfront investment, enjoy turnkey solutions, and scale your space as needed with shorter-term options. No need to get bogged down in lengthy leases, broker negotiations, or the complexities of setting up utilities and an Internet connection.

• Big Office Perks on a Small Business Budget: Coworking provides access to amenities and a sense of community typically associated with large corporations, even for small teams or solopreneurs. While you’re able to retreat to your office for head-down work, the availability of shared spaces and meeting rooms provide a vibrant atmosphere that fosters collaboration and networking.

• Energetic and Inspiring Environment: Coworking spaces are designed to be stimulating and engaging, offering a stark contrast to the often dull, dark, and isolating experience of traditional offices. The spaces that Lucid Private Offices creates are designed specifically to this end, with plenty of natural light and upscale furniture and decor that guests would associate with success.

  
  

  
  

The Hidden Costs and Challenges of Conventional Office Space

While coworking offers numerous benefits, the traditional office route still holds appeal for many. Specifically, traditional office floors bring a sense of permanence to the business. However, Flip brought to light plenty of complexities and hidden costs involved:

• Lengthy and Complex Process: Securing a conventional office space can be a time-consuming ordeal, often taking a year or more from initial search to move-in. Finding the right broker, negotiating leases, and navigating legal complexities can be a significant drain on resources.

• High Initial Investment: Traditional office spaces require substantial upfront investment, including lease payments, build-out costs, furniture, technology setup, and more.

• Long-Term Commitment: Leases for conventional spaces typically range from 3 to 5 years for as-is spaces and 10 to 15 years for custom build-outs, limiting flexibility and potentially locking businesses into unfavorable terms.

• Hidden Costs: Beyond rent and utilities, businesses must account for additional expenses such as internet, phone systems, IT infrastructure, and potentially janitorial services.

  
  

  
  

The Allure of the Hybrid Office Model

Recognizing the strengths and weaknesses of both coworking and conventional spaces, Flip is pushing a hybrid model at Lucid Private Offices that seeks to combine the best of both worlds. This approach aims to address the drawbacks of coworking, such as distractions and a potentially unprofessional image, while retaining its flexibility and cost-effectiveness.

Key features of Lucid Private Offices’ hybrid model include:

• White Label Branding: Creating a professional and cohesive environment by minimizing overt branding from individual companies within the space. 

• Mature and Elegant Design: Employing sophisticated design elements and high-quality finishes to project an image of professionalism and stability.

• Sound and Visual Privacy: Incorporating a mix of open and private spaces, along with sound-absorbing materials and strategic use of glass and drywall, to balance collaboration and focused work.

• Value-Added Services: Providing amenities like telephone service and answering, which are often lacking in traditional coworking spaces.

  
  

  
  

Doubling Down on White Label Branding

White label branding, in the context of coworking, refers to the practice of creating a neutral and unbranded environment within a shared workspace. This approach allows businesses to maintain their unique identity and project a professional image without the distractions and potential "amateur" feel associated with traditional coworking spaces.

• Projecting a Professional Image: In a white label coworking space, your company would take center stage. The absence of competing branding and signage creates a clean and sophisticated environment that reinforces your company's identity and professionalism. When clients or partners visit, they experience your brand and work ethic instead of a generic coworking space.
• Controlling Your Brand Narrative: By eliminating external branding distractions, you have complete control over the message and image you project. This allows you to curate a workspace that aligns perfectly with your brand values and resonates with your clients and guests.
• Creating a Focused Work Environment: White label spaces like those at Lucid Private Offices prioritize a more mature and refined aesthetic, minimizing visual clutter and distractions. This fosters a sense of calm and focus, allowing employees to concentrate on their work and maximize productivity.
• Cultivating a Sense of Ownership: Ultimately, professionals can experience that same greater sense of ownership and permanence that guests do when they enter into a space like this

The first impression when you step off the elevator at Lucid Private Offices - Las Colinas. No logos in sight!

The Hybrid Model: Here to Stay

Lucid Private Offices fully embraces this hybrid work model, aiming to address the shortcomings of traditional coworking spaces while incorporating the best elements of previously difficult-to-obtain conventional offices. This approach reflects a broader trend where the lines between these spaces are blurring.

The hybrid model offers businesses of all sizes flexibility, adaptability, and a sense of community. By prioritizing employee well-being, work-life balance, and cost-effectiveness, this innovative approach allows companies to curate workspaces that reflect their culture and values, driving productivity and success.

Lucid Private Offices continues to grow, with four new locations having opened in 2024. These centers in Atlanta, Dallas, Phoenix, and Scottsdale continue to iterate on what makes the company such a coveted spot for private offices and coworking: the gorgeous aesthetics and the white-label philosophy.