- Despite closing two prime sites, WeWork Singapore remains committed to a streamlined presence with 12 locations and a flagship 21-storey site on Collyer Quay.
- Industry-wide trends like AR/VR adoption, sustainability, cybersecurity and wellness programming are reshaping coworking, and WeWork is investing accordingly.
WeWork Singapore: Transforming the co-working space experience with design
WeWork Singapore is reshaping its office spaces through design innovation to meet the evolving demands of post-pandemic, flexible working environments. A prime example is its flagship location at 21 Collyer Quay—an entire 21-story building reimagined as a “vertical social village,” incorporating local art, plant walls, quiet lighting, and wellness zones to offer a sense of belonging for companies of all sizes and freelancers. WeWork’s Global Vice President of Design, Franquibel Lima, stated that this space “blurs the boundaries between hotels and offices, focusing on practical, flexible, and thoughtfully designed spaces.”
As part of a broader restructuring strategy, WeWork Singapore recently closed two of its locations—Manulife Tower and Clemenceau Avenue—emphasising that these were “difficult decisions” but essential for streamlining operations and enhancing the service experience at its remaining 12 locations. The company believes that this strategic reduction will improve operational efficiency and customer satisfaction, especially in the competitive and high-cost office market of Singapore. This move mirrors WeWork’s global shift from “blind expansion” to a more “lean growth” strategy, focused on long-term sustainability through optimising key locations.
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WeWork Singapore: Changes in the co-working industry
The co-working industry in Singapore has seen rapid expansion in recent years, with office space growing from 1.2 million square feet in 2018 to 3.7 million square feet in 2022. However, post-pandemic hybrid working trends, cost-cutting by businesses, and rising vacancy rates in commercial office buildings have driven the market towards a more rational development phase, with increasing competition and innovation. Industry trends such as AR/VR virtual office tours, green building materials, and bio-friendly designs, along with a stronger focus on employee mental health, are becoming new standards.
WeWork Singapore has adapted to these changes. In addition to upgrading its physical spaces, it has enhanced its service offerings—organising community events, introducing meditation sessions, and providing more robust cybersecurity solutions to increase user engagement and differentiate itself from competitors. As local competitors like JustCo, The Great Room, and The Executive Centre continue expanding, WeWork is opting for a “less is more” strategy to consolidate its brand value in Singapore’s high-end office market.
