Avila Spaces Wins Global Award for Sustainable Outdoor Coworking
A Global Win for Innovation and Sustainability
Avila Spaces, a proud eOffice eNetwork partner and one of Lisbon’s leading coworking operators, has once again set a global standard for sustainable outdoor coworking.
The company recently won first place in the prestigious Next Work Environment Competition, organised by Work Design Magazine.
Their winning project, Re:Space – Rethinking Work, Reusing the World, introduces a bold concept. It reimagines hybrid work by combining environmental responsibility, well-being, and productivity in an open-air workspace in the heart of Lisbon.
A New Era for Coworking in Lisbon
Avila Spaces is known for setting new standards in flexible workspaces and office design. With Re:Space, Avila Spaces is taking sustainable outdoor coworking to the next level, transforming a 354 m² terrace into a green, productive environment that inspires hybrid work
Developed in collaboration with Teresa Jacinto – Interior Design, the concept features a new kind of workplace: one that’s good for people and for the planet.
“This award confirms the spirit of innovation that defines Avila Spaces. We created a project that is much more than a new workplace model—it’s a manifesto for a future where people’s well-being and respect for the planet go hand in hand,” explains Carlos Gonçalves, CEO of Avila Spaces.
Design That Redefines the Work Experience
At the heart of Re:Space is the Activity-Based Working model, which empowers users to choose the environment that best fits their task—whether that’s deep focus, collaboration, or relaxation.
This focus on sustainable outdoor coworking ensures every element—from natural ventilation to recycled materials—supports both productivity and environmental responsibility.
Smart lighting, mobile furniture, and natural ventilation adapt seamlessly to Lisbon’s climate, providing comfort throughout the year. Meanwhile, photovoltaic panels generate clean energy, rainwater systems support sustainable irrigation, and recycled industrial wood brings a natural warmth to the structure.
The result is a workspace that’s not only functional but also environmentally responsible—saving 100% in annual energy costs, reducing water consumption by 83%, and increasing demand from hybrid professionals by over 35%.
Bringing People, Nature, and Purpose Together
What makes this project unique is its human focus. Re:Space shows how sustainable outdoor coworking can foster community engagement, well-being, and inclusivity.
The plan includes gardening workshops run by retired professionals, collaborations with disability-support organisations, and academic partnerships with engineering faculties to develop timber-based construction solutions.
“We want this concept to inspire other organisations—encouraging sharing, learning, and innovation—and to create an environment where different generations and communities come together,” says Teresa Jacinto, head of the studio behind the project.
This social dimension highlights an emerging trend in coworking design: workplaces that support mental health, social inclusion, and environmental awareness all at once.
Coworking Spaces for a Healthier, Happier Workforce
Although Re:Space is currently a theoretical project, the research behind it shows powerful potential impacts. The model predicts:
- A 20% increase in outdoor events and collaborative activities
- Twice as many wellness sessions, such as yoga and meditation
- Higher employee engagement and retention
- Lower mental health-related costs and absenteeism.
In short, the future of work will depend not only on technology but also on connection, balance, and well-being.
Avila Spaces: Portugal’s Most Awarded Coworking Brand
This is far from Avila’s first global recognition. In 2023, the company was named “Best Coworking in the World” at the Global Startup Awards. With more than 1,000 clients and three exceptional locations in Lisbon—Avenida da República, Atrium Saldanha, and Parque das Nações—Avila continues to set the benchmark for workspace excellence.
In 2024, the brand also earned:
- The Next Work Environment Award in “Hybrid Work Environments – Shared Coworking.”
- The 5 Estrelas Regiões Award for coworking spaces.
Each distinction reinforces Avila’s commitment to design, innovation, and sustainability.
Proudly Part of the eOffice eNetwork
Avila Spaces is a proud member of the eOffice eNetwork, a curated global community of premium coworking and flexible workspace providers.
Founded in 2008, the eOffice eNetwork started with a handful of visionary European partners who shared one mission: to make flexible workspaces accessible worldwide through trusted partnerships.
Today, the network connects over 300 communities across 155 cities and 50+ countries, all united to empower people, respect the planet, and strengthen global collaboration.
The Future Is Outdoors
The success of Re:Space proves that the future of work lies in sustainable outdoor coworking, where hybrid professionals thrive under natural light and fresh air.
As hybrid work continues to evolve, professionals are seeking environments that spark creativity and connection. Imagine working under the Lisbon sky, surrounded by greenery, where sunlight replaces fluorescent glare and fresh air fuels ideas!
That’s the vision Avila Spaces is bringing to life — and one that could inspire coworking operators around the world
For eOffice and its international network, this milestone highlights a shared belief: the workplaces of tomorrow will be sustainable, human-centred, and globally connected.
About Avila Spaces
Founded in 2004, Avila Spaces is Portugal’s most awarded business centre and a pioneer in flexible workspace innovation.
With multiple locations in Lisbon and a focus on design, technology, and sustainability, Avila serves a diverse community of more than 1,000 professionals.
About eOffice eNetwork
The eOffice eNetwork is a global alliance of forward-thinking coworking and flex office operators dedicated to quality, innovation, and community.
With 325 locations worldwide, eOffice connects professionals and businesses through trusted partnerships and premium work environments that inspire productivity and creativity.
