Clockwise Champions the Rise of the “Third Place” for Hybrid Workers 

Hybrid working has become a permanent fixture of professional life, but the question remains: if not the office, and not always home, then where should work get done? New research* from flexible workspace provider Clockwise offers a clear answer: the “Third Place.” 

Clockwise’s survey of its members reveals that more than half (52%) now split their time between home and a Clockwise site, using it as their hybrid hub. A further 28% treat Clockwise as their full-time office, while others use it occasionally for team catchups, client meetings, or deep-focus work. This mix reflects a growing reality: the traditional office no longer holds a monopoly on where, or how, work gets done. 

Redefining the “Third Place” 

The “third place” once meant cafés, libraries, or hotel lobbies, but professionals now want something more intentional. Clockwise’s research shows members increasingly choose spaces that combine practicality and inspiration. Two-thirds (65%) say proximity and convenience drew them in, yet nearly half point to atmosphere and design as equally decisive. Clockwise members describe the spaces as “stylish,” “calm,” and “a productivity zone” – places where they feel proud to host clients as well as focus alone. 

Community is another defining feature: over a third of members questioned cited networking opportunities as a key reason for joining. One entrepreneur summed it up: “It’s so refreshing to be around other entrepreneurs. It feels like a community, not just a space.” 

Greg Miley, Chief Commercial Officer at Clockwise, said: “We’re seeing a growing shift away from the idea that people must choose between a fixed head office that may not suit everyone, or working from home. Increasingly, individuals and organisations are looking for a “third place”, a space that is convenient, adaptable, and relevant to the work at hand. It’s about creating an environment that supports connection, inspires focus, and flexes to the rhythm of modern working life. That’s exactly what Clockwise delivers: a true third place designed to help our members do their best work, every day.” 

Where Productivity Meets Belonging 

The research also highlights how members use Clockwise day-to-day. Many turn to it as a place for deep focus, with one noting: “I get more done here in four hours than at home all day.” For consultants and creatives, it doubles as a client-facing venue that feels professional yet approachable. And for growing teams, Clockwise often becomes a “mini HQ,” offering collaboration without the overheads of a long-term lease. 

This balance between productivity and connection reflects broader wellbeing priorities. Members rank flexible working hours and the ability to mix remote days with office days as essential, but they also place social connection high on the list, underscoring why simply working from home is not enough – and may be becoming outdated and unpreferred in a post-pandemic world. 

A Diverse Community 

The Clockwise community spans industries from creative agencies and tech start-ups to consultants, non-profits, and freelancers. For many, the appeal lies as much in the mix of people as in the facilities themselves. As one member put it: “My clients love the space – it reflects my brand. And I’ve made real business contacts just by chatting in the kitchen.” 

Looking Ahead 

With 17 sites across the UK and mainland Europe – and having grown 500% in the last four years – Clockwise is shaping the future of workspaces. Its flexible memberships attract everyone from founders to established firms, proving that demand for a professional yet adaptable “third place” cuts across industries. 

As hybrid working continues to evolve, Clockwise sees the Third Place not as a stopgap, but as a cornerstone of the future of work. Where once professionals had to choose between the distractions of home and the rigidity of the office, they now have access to spaces that blend autonomy with community. 

For more information, visit www.work-clockwise.com