Experts Break Down The New WELL Coworking Rating And Its Impact On The Future Of Flexible Workspace

• The WELL Coworking Rating is a new health and wellness benchmark tailored for coworking spaces, with 42 features that prioritize air quality, inclusive design, and food options to enhance employee well-being.
• Designed for accessibility, the WELL Coworking Rating costs $1,200 annually per site and can be achieved without expensive consultants, aiming to make wellness standards universal across all coworking operators.
• The rating system is technology-driven, with tools for automated monitoring and scalable evidence submission, helping operators maintain health standards efficiently as the coworking sector grows.

When it comes to coworking and flexible spaces, creating environments that promote health and wellness isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s become a must. 

I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Sam Pickering, Executive Director of Sustainability for The Instant Group, to understand the new WELL Coworking Rating, developed in partnership with the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). 

This health leadership benchmark is tailored specifically for our dynamic coworking industry, and I couldn’t wait to hear how it all came together — and what it means for operators.

Why a WELL Rating for coworking?

Sam and I started with the basics. I wanted to know why coworking spaces needed their own health and wellness rating, separate from the traditional WELL Building Standard.

Sam explained, “In traditional spaces, the certification process assumes control over every detail — construction, systems, operations. But coworking is unique. You have multiple tenants with diverse needs, limited control over building-wide systems, and often razor-thin margins. We needed a standard tailored to these realities.”

He pointed out that coworking spaces constantly juggle diverse occupants, some using the space daily, others dropping in sporadically. 

“It’s not a one-size-fits-all scenario,” Sam said. “That’s why we partnered with the International WELL Building Institute to create a WELL rating specifically for the flex sector.”

What makes the WELL Coworking Rating different?

Here’s where things get really interesting. Unlike the traditional WELL certification, which involves over 100 features, the WELL Coworking Rating focuses on 42 targeted features. Spaces can score up to 53 points, with a minimum of 23 required to earn the rating.

“This flexibility is key,” Sam said. “It allows operators of any size and financial situation to prioritize what matters most to them whether that’s air quality, inclusive design, or food offerings. By achieving 23 points, research shows you’re already delivering significant health benefits to end-users.”

Making wellness accessible for all coworking operators

One of my biggest questions was about accessibility. Could smaller operators afford to pursue the rating, or was this another initiative geared toward industry giants?

Sam assured me, “We’ve deliberately kept the price point low. It’s just $1,200 per site annually. This isn’t about creating barriers; it’s about driving widespread adoption. Our goal is to make this a universal benchmark, not an exclusive club.”

The simplicity of the process also stands out. Operators can perform a gap analysis, create a list of targeted strategies, submit evidence for validation, and receive their rating, all without hiring costly consultants.

Technology’s role in scaling wellness

As a technologist, I couldn’t resist asking Sam how software tools could make this process even smoother. His answer was clear: data is key.

“Automating things like air quality monitoring and evidence submission through dashboards could transform the way operators interact with the rating system,” he said. “It’s about making the process intuitive and scalable, especially as the sector grows.”

Why it matters for the coworking community

What struck me most in our conversation was Sam’s passion for making coworking spaces healthier for everyone. 

“Air quality is fundamental,” he said. “But inclusivity features — like new mother rooms — and thoughtful food options also play huge roles. These aren’t just add-ons; they’re essential for fostering well-being.”

“Inclusivity features — like new mother rooms — and thoughtful food options also play huge roles. These aren’t just add-ons; they’re essential for fostering well-being.”

And this isn’t just about making coworking spaces feel good. It’s about proving it. 

“If I’m a sole trader or part of an enterprise team, I want to know the space I’m working in supports my health. The WELL Coworking Rating gives that confidence,” Sam emphasized.

What’s next?

The WELL Coworking Rating launched just a few months ago, but Sam and his team have big plans. 

“By the end of 2025, we aim to have 2,500 sites signed up. It’s about creating a ripple effect — proving that healthier spaces drive higher demand and better outcomes for everyone.”

As we wrapped up, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by the potential of this initiative. 

At Coworks, we’re proud to champion innovations such as the WELL Coworking Rating that elevate the entire industry. Whether you’re a coworking operator, a corporate decision-maker, or a daily member, this new benchmark sets the stage for a healthier, more vibrant future in flexible work.