There’s something really refreshing about walking into a space built for creativity and collaboration – especially on a cold December day when it’s hard to motivate.
I spent the day working from the Barbican Creative Hub in Lincoln, and what stood out wasn’t anything flashy, not the gorgeous grade II listed building or it’s stunning renovation and design although these are incredible. It was in the simpler moments.
The making of a cup of tea for each other, the sitting down and cracking on with work whilst in the background hearing the distant sound of a cheerful “Oh hello you, so nice to see you!” or “can I introduce you to…” drifting across the room. People genuinely glad to unexpectedly bump into each other and that’s exactly what this place is designed to support.
The layout makes it easy: plenty of open and communal spaces where you naturally say hello and where conversations start without effort, and a communal kitchen where a quick coffee break turns into swapping ideas.
I learnt things I didn’t expect to learn, projects I’d never heard of, people doing interesting work I wouldn’t normally cross paths with. It democratises the space in a way; everyone is on the same level, sharing the same tables, working side-by-side
And yes – I actually got loads of work done too.
The Barbican isn’t the only place like this, but it’s a strong example of what happens when you design a building around people, not just desks.
Freelancers, artists, students, producers, strategic leaders, community organisers, small business owners – they all move through here. Sometimes they collaborate. Sometimes they just share a smile.
At a time when remote working can feel isolating, these spaces remind us why being around others can make such a difference. A shared room, a shared laugh, or even just knowing there are other humans typing away nearby – it adds something you can’t replicate online.
By the time I packed up to leave, it didn’t feel like I was walking out of a coworking space. It felt like leaving a small community that had formed, dissolved, and reformed all day long.
Nothing dramatic – just people connecting, naturally, because the space makes it easy.
Ben, Creative and Executive Director, Lincoln Art Centre