Hot Desk or serviced office—what should you choose as a freelancer?

What are the differences between these two solutions

Hot Desk is a flexible workspace that is not assigned to a specific person—each day, you occupy any available desk in the coworking area. Serviced office is a fully equipped, private office space, ready for immediate use and available exclusively to you—without sharing it with other coworking users.

Hot Desk – who is this solution for

Advantages: flexibility and lower cost. At Cowork by Memos, a Hot Desk costs 60 PLN net per day, with access to the space between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM. This solution requires no long-term commitment—you can rent a desk for a single day, a few days a week, or via a monthly subscription.

Limitations: no permanent spot. Each day you sit wherever a spot is available, which means you cannot leave your equipment behind and must adhere to the space's operating hours.

Serviced office – who is this solution for

Advantages: a permanent spot and complete privacy. A serviced office provides 24/7 access to the space without sharing it with others—it is your own place that you can arrange as you like. The price includes full furnishing, high-speed internet, reception services, and cleaning—you don't have to worry about infrastructure.

When is it worth it despite the higher price. This solution works well when you need stability, hold client meetings directly in your office, or work with a team that needs a shared, enclosed space. Billing is based on the number of desks in the office—the exact price is best determined individually, by writing to us.

How to make a decision

Before you choose, it's worth asking yourself a few questions: How often will you actually use the space—every day or just a few times a week? Do you need to leave your equipment on-site, or do you work primarily from a laptop? Are you looking for complete privacy, or do you prefer the energy of a shared space and the ease of networking? Does your work require access outside of standard 8–4 business hours?

Our recommendation

For a project-based freelancer who values flexibility and frequently changes their work rhythm, Hot Desk is a natural choice—the lower cost and the ability to pay by the day or month fit well with a variable workload. For someone working with a single long-term client, managing a team, or needing a permanent address to receive guests, a serviced office is a better fit—despite the higher price, it provides the peace of mind and predictability that become more important than flexibility as your business grows.

Summary

There is no single right answer—what works for one freelancer might not work for another. A Hot Desk offers lower costs and full flexibility, while a serviced office provides stability and privacy. The good news is that you don't have to decide once and for all—as your business grows, you can start with a Hot Desk and naturally transition to a serviced office when your needs change. If you want something in between—a permanent, assigned spot without renting an entire office—check out our dedicated desk options as well.

Wondering which option is better for you?Contact us — we’ll help you find the right solution for your work style.

FAQ

Can I start with a Hot Desk and then switch to a serviced office?
Yes, many people start with a Hot Desk and move to a serviced office as their business grows and they require more stability and private space.

Is a Hot Desk only available during standard business hours?
Yes, Hot Desk access is available from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Full 24/7 access is provided with a serviced office, as well as with a dedicated desk once you have signed an agreement with us.

How much does a serviced office at Cowork by Memos cost?
Billing is based on the number of desks in the office—it is best to determine the exact price individually by contacting us.

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