Coworking + Coliving: The Key to Bringing People Back to the Office
Rahel Zoebeli
Opinion
,
Share this story ...
As campus manager at the Silicon Allee Campus in Berlin, I saw firsthand how combining working and living can create a real impact. Done correctly, blending both creates the perfect environment for innovation and collaboration. Managing the campus taught me this isn’t just another product—it’s the future. These are the lessons that convinced me.
We didn’t exactly offer a typical ‘coworking’ product here, but for simplicity’s sake, I’ll use the term. It works, and it sounds better. Now, onward.
Working And Living: A Natural Match
It’s no secret that coworking spaces have become hubs for innovation. But in my experience, their true potential emerges when there’s a living element involved. At our Silicon Allee Campus, startups operated side-by-side in the same building, fostering unplanned, valuable interactions—whether in the hallway or over coffee. It wasn’t about forced networking, but about serendipitous encounters in shared spaces.
Coliving added another dimension. By adding living spaces, residents could build stronger bonds outside of work, turning professional ties into real partnerships—and even friendships. By combining working and living, we erased the line between work and home. And for anyone new to Berlin, it was the perfect place to land.
But in the end, it was more than just blending working and living. Let me explain.
Silicon Allee Courtyard: The Heart of the Community
Creating A Third Space
At the center of Silicon Allee was our café, a place that became much more than a spot to grab coffee. It was where the magic happened—where ideas were shared, collaborations were born, and the community came together. Lots of people talk about the ‘Third Space’. Well, for those on campus, this was it. Whether you worked in one of the startup offices, lived in the apartments, or were simply visiting, the café served as a welcoming, unpretentious space.
Our courtyard was another focal point. It wasn’t just a functional outdoor area—it was an open canvas for creativity and interaction. From casual conversations to organized events, it provided the kind of inspiring atmosphere that makes people want to linger, talk, and create together.
Events: The Lifeblood of the Campus
What truly set the Silicon Allee Campus apart was the way we prioritized community gatherings. Monthly meet-ups became a signature feature, drawing people from across Berlin’s startup scene—young entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, tech enthusiasts, and more. These events transformed the campus into a vibrant hub of energy, where ideas flowed freely, and connections were made.
Beyond the meet-ups, we hosted pitch nights, workshops, and informal gatherings that encouraged learning, collaboration, and creative exchange. These weren’t just business networking events; they were moments of genuine connection, where attendees felt part of a larger mission to innovate and support one another. For startups, these gatherings were invaluable opportunities to gain feedback, find collaborators, and refine their visions.
Campus Co-Living: Apartments with a View
Why It Worked
What made our product so successful was our holistic approach. We didn’t just provide office space, apartments, or even events—we created an ecosystem designed to help people thrive. We took the best of these different models, and merged them together. The combination of physical spaces, a strong community ethos, and intentional programming meant that people weren’t just tenants or coworkers; they were part of a living, breathing network.
This approach worked because it focused on human connection. In an era where remote work and digital communication dominate, the Silicon Allee Campus proved the enduring value of face-to-face interaction and shared experiences. People don’t just need spaces—they need opportunities to connect, share, and grow together.
The Lessons of Silicon Allee
Although we’ve moved on from managing the campus, the key lessons remain. It demonstrated that coworking and coliving aren’t just complementary—they’re transformative. When done right, of course. By creating spaces where people can work, live, and connect seamlessly, we can foster environments that drive innovation and collaboration.
More importantly, it showcased the power of community. At its heart, Silicon Allee wasn’t just a space—it was a network of people who inspired and supported one another. From the vibrant café culture to the dynamic meet-ups and shared spaces, Silicon Allee proved that a strong community is the foundation for success.
In today’s fast-evolving work landscape, this blended working/living model highlights the importance of human connection. Spaces matter, but it’s the people and the relationships they build that turn those spaces into something truly special.
R/D Coffee Bar: From Breakfast to After Work
Getting People Back In The ‘Office’
As hybrid work becomes the norm, the idea of blending work and living spaces might just be the key to getting people back into the office. It’s a complex product, but perhaps this solution is simpler than it seems. Right?
Coworking + Coliving: The Key to Bringing People Back to the Office
Rahel Zoebeli
Opinion
,
Share this story ...
As campus manager at the Silicon Allee Campus in Berlin, I saw firsthand how combining working and living can create a real impact. Done correctly, blending both creates the perfect environment for innovation and collaboration. Managing the campus taught me this isn’t just another product—it’s the future. These are the lessons that convinced me.
We didn’t exactly offer a typical ‘coworking’ product here, but for simplicity’s sake, I’ll use the term. It works, and it sounds better. Now, onward.
Working And Living: A Natural Match
It’s no secret that coworking spaces have become hubs for innovation. But in my experience, their true potential emerges when there’s a living element involved. At our Silicon Allee Campus, startups operated side-by-side in the same building, fostering unplanned, valuable interactions—whether in the hallway or over coffee. It wasn’t about forced networking, but about serendipitous encounters in shared spaces.
Coliving added another dimension. By adding living spaces, residents could build stronger bonds outside of work, turning professional ties into real partnerships—and even friendships. By combining working and living, we erased the line between work and home. And for anyone new to Berlin, it was the perfect place to land.
But in the end, it was more than just blending working and living. Let me explain.
Silicon Allee Courtyard: The Heart of the Community
Creating A Third Space
At the center of Silicon Allee was our café, a place that became much more than a spot to grab coffee. It was where the magic happened—where ideas were shared, collaborations were born, and the community came together. Lots of people talk about the ‘Third Space’. Well, for those on campus, this was it. Whether you worked in one of the startup offices, lived in the apartments, or were simply visiting, the café served as a welcoming, unpretentious space.
Our courtyard was another focal point. It wasn’t just a functional outdoor area—it was an open canvas for creativity and interaction. From casual conversations to organized events, it provided the kind of inspiring atmosphere that makes people want to linger, talk, and create together.
Events: The Lifeblood of the Campus
What truly set the Silicon Allee Campus apart was the way we prioritized community gatherings. Monthly meet-ups became a signature feature, drawing people from across Berlin’s startup scene—young entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, tech enthusiasts, and more. These events transformed the campus into a vibrant hub of energy, where ideas flowed freely, and connections were made.
Beyond the meet-ups, we hosted pitch nights, workshops, and informal gatherings that encouraged learning, collaboration, and creative exchange. These weren’t just business networking events; they were moments of genuine connection, where attendees felt part of a larger mission to innovate and support one another. For startups, these gatherings were invaluable opportunities to gain feedback, find collaborators, and refine their visions.
Campus Co-Living: Apartments with a View
Why It Worked
What made our product so successful was our holistic approach. We didn’t just provide office space, apartments, or even events—we created an ecosystem designed to help people thrive. We took the best of these different models, and merged them together. The combination of physical spaces, a strong community ethos, and intentional programming meant that people weren’t just tenants or coworkers; they were part of a living, breathing network.
This approach worked because it focused on human connection. In an era where remote work and digital communication dominate, the Silicon Allee Campus proved the enduring value of face-to-face interaction and shared experiences. People don’t just need spaces—they need opportunities to connect, share, and grow together.
The Lessons of Silicon Allee
Although we’ve moved on from managing the campus, the key lessons remain. It demonstrated that coworking and coliving aren’t just complementary—they’re transformative. When done right, of course. By creating spaces where people can work, live, and connect seamlessly, we can foster environments that drive innovation and collaboration.
More importantly, it showcased the power of community. At its heart, Silicon Allee wasn’t just a space—it was a network of people who inspired and supported one another. From the vibrant café culture to the dynamic meet-ups and shared spaces, Silicon Allee proved that a strong community is the foundation for success.
In today’s fast-evolving work landscape, this blended working/living model highlights the importance of human connection. Spaces matter, but it’s the people and the relationships they build that turn those spaces into something truly special.
R/D Coffee Bar: From Breakfast to After Work
Getting People Back In The ‘Office’
As hybrid work becomes the norm, the idea of blending work and living spaces might just be the key to getting people back into the office. It’s a complex product, but perhaps this solution is simpler than it seems. Right?
Coworking + Coliving: The Key to Bringing People Back to the Office
As campus manager at the Silicon Allee Campus in Berlin, I saw firsthand how combining working and living can create a real impact. Done correctly, blending both creates the perfect environment for innovation and collaboration. Managing the campus taught me this isn’t just another product—it’s the future. These are the lessons that convinced me.
We didn’t exactly offer a typical ‘coworking’ product here, but for simplicity’s sake, I’ll use the term. It works, and it sounds better. Now, onward.
Working And Living: A Natural Match
It’s no secret that coworking spaces have become hubs for innovation. But in my experience, their true potential emerges when there’s a living element involved. At our Silicon Allee Campus, startups operated side-by-side in the same building, fostering unplanned, valuable interactions—whether in the hallway or over coffee. It wasn’t about forced networking, but about serendipitous encounters in shared spaces.
Coliving added another dimension. By adding living spaces, residents could build stronger bonds outside of work, turning professional ties into real partnerships—and even friendships. By combining working and living, we erased the line between work and home. And for anyone new to Berlin, it was the perfect place to land.
But in the end, it was more than just blending working and living. Let me explain.
Silicon Allee Courtyard: The Heart of the Community
Creating A Third Space
At the center of Silicon Allee was our café, a place that became much more than a spot to grab coffee. It was where the magic happened—where ideas were shared, collaborations were born, and the community came together. Lots of people talk about the ‘Third Space’. Well, for those on campus, this was it. Whether you worked in one of the startup offices, lived in the apartments, or were simply visiting, the café served as a welcoming, unpretentious space.
Our courtyard was another focal point. It wasn’t just a functional outdoor area—it was an open canvas for creativity and interaction. From casual conversations to organized events, it provided the kind of inspiring atmosphere that makes people want to linger, talk, and create together.
Events: The Lifeblood of the Campus
What truly set the Silicon Allee Campus apart was the way we prioritized community gatherings. Monthly meet-ups became a signature feature, drawing people from across Berlin’s startup scene—young entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, tech enthusiasts, and more. These events transformed the campus into a vibrant hub of energy, where ideas flowed freely, and connections were made.
Beyond the meet-ups, we hosted pitch nights, workshops, and informal gatherings that encouraged learning, collaboration, and creative exchange. These weren’t just business networking events; they were moments of genuine connection, where attendees felt part of a larger mission to innovate and support one another. For startups, these gatherings were invaluable opportunities to gain feedback, find collaborators, and refine their visions.
Campus Co-Living: Apartments with a View
Why It Worked
What made our product so successful was our holistic approach. We didn’t just provide office space, apartments, or even events—we created an ecosystem designed to help people thrive. We took the best of these different models, and merged them together. The combination of physical spaces, a strong community ethos, and intentional programming meant that people weren’t just tenants or coworkers; they were part of a living, breathing network.
This approach worked because it focused on human connection. In an era where remote work and digital communication dominate, the Silicon Allee Campus proved the enduring value of face-to-face interaction and shared experiences. People don’t just need spaces—they need opportunities to connect, share, and grow together.
The Lessons of Silicon Allee
Although we’ve moved on from managing the campus, the key lessons remain. It demonstrated that coworking and coliving aren’t just complementary—they’re transformative. When done right, of course. By creating spaces where people can work, live, and connect seamlessly, we can foster environments that drive innovation and collaboration.
More importantly, it showcased the power of community. At its heart, Silicon Allee wasn’t just a space—it was a network of people who inspired and supported one another. From the vibrant café culture to the dynamic meet-ups and shared spaces, Silicon Allee proved that a strong community is the foundation for success.
In today’s fast-evolving work landscape, this blended working/living model highlights the importance of human connection. Spaces matter, but it’s the people and the relationships they build that turn those spaces into something truly special.
R/D Coffee Bar: From Breakfast to After Work
Getting People Back In The ‘Office’
As hybrid work becomes the norm, the idea of blending work and living spaces might just be the key to getting people back into the office. It’s a complex product, but perhaps this solution is simpler than it seems. Right?
As campus manager at the Silicon Allee Campus in Berlin, I saw firsthand how combining working and living can create a real impact. Done correctly, blending both creates the perfect environment for innovation and collaboration. Managing the campus taught me this isn’t just another product—it’s the future. These are the lessons that convinced me.
We didn’t exactly offer a typical ‘coworking’ product here, but for simplicity’s sake, I’ll use the term. It works, and it sounds better. Now, onward.
As campus manager at the Silicon Allee Campus in Berlin, I saw firsthand how combining working and living can create a real impact. Done correctly, blending both creates the perfect environment for innovation and collaboration. Managing the campus taught me this isn’t just another product—it’s the future. These are the lessons that convinced me.
We didn’t exactly offer a typical ‘coworking’ product here, but for simplicity’s sake, I’ll use the term. It works, and it sounds better. Now, onward.
Working And Living: A Natural Match
It’s no secret that coworking spaces have become hubs for innovation. But in my experience, their true potential emerges when there’s a living element involved. At our Silicon Allee Campus, startups operated side-by-side in the same building, fostering unplanned, valuable interactions—whether in the hallway or over coffee. It wasn’t about forced networking, but about serendipitous encounters in shared spaces.
Coliving added another dimension. By adding living spaces, residents could build stronger bonds outside of work, turning professional ties into real partnerships—and even friendships. By combining working and living, we erased the line between work and home. And for anyone new to Berlin, it was the perfect place to land.
But in the end, it was more than just blending working and living. Let me explain.
Silicon Allee Courtyard: The Heart of the Community
Creating A Third Space
At the center of Silicon Allee was our café, a place that became much more than a spot to grab coffee. It was where the magic happened—where ideas were shared, collaborations were born, and the community came together. Lots of people talk about the ‘Third Space’. Well, for those on campus, this was it. Whether you worked in one of the startup offices, lived in the apartments, or were simply visiting, the café served as a welcoming, unpretentious space.
Our courtyard was another focal point. It wasn’t just a functional outdoor area—it was an open canvas for creativity and interaction. From casual conversations to organized events, it provided the kind of inspiring atmosphere that makes people want to linger, talk, and create together.
Events: The Lifeblood of the Campus
What truly set the Silicon Allee Campus apart was the way we prioritized community gatherings. Monthly meet-ups became a signature feature, drawing people from across Berlin’s startup scene—young entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, tech enthusiasts, and more. These events transformed the campus into a vibrant hub of energy, where ideas flowed freely, and connections were made.
Beyond the meet-ups, we hosted pitch nights, workshops, and informal gatherings that encouraged learning, collaboration, and creative exchange. These weren’t just business networking events; they were moments of genuine connection, where attendees felt part of a larger mission to innovate and support one another. For startups, these gatherings were invaluable opportunities to gain feedback, find collaborators, and refine their visions.
Campus Co-Living: Apartments with a View
Why It Worked
What made our product so successful was our holistic approach. We didn’t just provide office space, apartments, or even events—we created an ecosystem designed to help people thrive. We took the best of these different models, and merged them together. The combination of physical spaces, a strong community ethos, and intentional programming meant that people weren’t just tenants or coworkers; they were part of a living, breathing network.
This approach worked because it focused on human connection. In an era where remote work and digital communication dominate, the Silicon Allee Campus proved the enduring value of face-to-face interaction and shared experiences. People don’t just need spaces—they need opportunities to connect, share, and grow together.
The Lessons of Silicon Allee
Although we’ve moved on from managing the campus, the key lessons remain. It demonstrated that coworking and coliving aren’t just complementary—they’re transformative. When done right, of course. By creating spaces where people can work, live, and connect seamlessly, we can foster environments that drive innovation and collaboration.
More importantly, it showcased the power of community. At its heart, Silicon Allee wasn’t just a space—it was a network of people who inspired and supported one another. From the vibrant café culture to the dynamic meet-ups and shared spaces, Silicon Allee proved that a strong community is the foundation for success.
In today’s fast-evolving work landscape, this blended working/living model highlights the importance of human connection. Spaces matter, but it’s the people and the relationships they build that turn those spaces into something truly special.
R/D Coffee Bar: From Breakfast to After Work
Getting People Back In The ‘Office’
As hybrid work becomes the norm, the idea of blending work and living spaces might just be the key to getting people back into the office. It’s a complex product, but perhaps this solution is simpler than it seems. Right?
Key Facts
Regeneration
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September 11, 2021
Coworking + Coliving: The Key to Bringing People Back to the Office
Rahel Zoebeli
Opinion
,
Share this story ...
As campus manager at the Silicon Allee Campus in Berlin, I saw firsthand how combining working and living can create a real impact. Done correctly, blending both creates the perfect environment for innovation and collaboration. Managing the campus taught me this isn’t just another product—it’s the future. These are the lessons that convinced me.
We didn’t exactly offer a typical ‘coworking’ product here, but for simplicity’s sake, I’ll use the term. It works, and it sounds better. Now, onward.
Working And Living: A Natural Match
It’s no secret that coworking spaces have become hubs for innovation. But in my experience, their true potential emerges when there’s a living element involved. At our Silicon Allee Campus, startups operated side-by-side in the same building, fostering unplanned, valuable interactions—whether in the hallway or over coffee. It wasn’t about forced networking, but about serendipitous encounters in shared spaces.
Coliving added another dimension. By adding living spaces, residents could build stronger bonds outside of work, turning professional ties into real partnerships—and even friendships. By combining working and living, we erased the line between work and home. And for anyone new to Berlin, it was the perfect place to land.
But in the end, it was more than just blending working and living. Let me explain.
Silicon Allee Courtyard: The Heart of the Community
Creating A Third Space
At the center of Silicon Allee was our café, a place that became much more than a spot to grab coffee. It was where the magic happened—where ideas were shared, collaborations were born, and the community came together. Lots of people talk about the ‘Third Space’. Well, for those on campus, this was it. Whether you worked in one of the startup offices, lived in the apartments, or were simply visiting, the café served as a welcoming, unpretentious space.
Our courtyard was another focal point. It wasn’t just a functional outdoor area—it was an open canvas for creativity and interaction. From casual conversations to organized events, it provided the kind of inspiring atmosphere that makes people want to linger, talk, and create together.
Events: The Lifeblood of the Campus
What truly set the Silicon Allee Campus apart was the way we prioritized community gatherings. Monthly meet-ups became a signature feature, drawing people from across Berlin’s startup scene—young entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, tech enthusiasts, and more. These events transformed the campus into a vibrant hub of energy, where ideas flowed freely, and connections were made.
Beyond the meet-ups, we hosted pitch nights, workshops, and informal gatherings that encouraged learning, collaboration, and creative exchange. These weren’t just business networking events; they were moments of genuine connection, where attendees felt part of a larger mission to innovate and support one another. For startups, these gatherings were invaluable opportunities to gain feedback, find collaborators, and refine their visions.
Campus Co-Living: Apartments with a View
Why It Worked
What made our product so successful was our holistic approach. We didn’t just provide office space, apartments, or even events—we created an ecosystem designed to help people thrive. We took the best of these different models, and merged them together. The combination of physical spaces, a strong community ethos, and intentional programming meant that people weren’t just tenants or coworkers; they were part of a living, breathing network.
This approach worked because it focused on human connection. In an era where remote work and digital communication dominate, the Silicon Allee Campus proved the enduring value of face-to-face interaction and shared experiences. People don’t just need spaces—they need opportunities to connect, share, and grow together.
The Lessons of Silicon Allee
Although we’ve moved on from managing the campus, the key lessons remain. It demonstrated that coworking and coliving aren’t just complementary—they’re transformative. When done right, of course. By creating spaces where people can work, live, and connect seamlessly, we can foster environments that drive innovation and collaboration.
More importantly, it showcased the power of community. At its heart, Silicon Allee wasn’t just a space—it was a network of people who inspired and supported one another. From the vibrant café culture to the dynamic meet-ups and shared spaces, Silicon Allee proved that a strong community is the foundation for success.
In today’s fast-evolving work landscape, this blended working/living model highlights the importance of human connection. Spaces matter, but it’s the people and the relationships they build that turn those spaces into something truly special.
R/D Coffee Bar: From Breakfast to After Work
Getting People Back In The ‘Office’
As hybrid work becomes the norm, the idea of blending work and living spaces might just be the key to getting people back into the office. It’s a complex product, but perhaps this solution is simpler than it seems. Right?
Coworking + Coliving: The Key to Bringing People Back to the Office
Rahel Zoebeli
Opinion
,
Share this story ...
As campus manager at the Silicon Allee Campus in Berlin, I saw firsthand how combining working and living can create a real impact. Done correctly, blending both creates the perfect environment for innovation and collaboration. Managing the campus taught me this isn’t just another product—it’s the future. These are the lessons that convinced me.
We didn’t exactly offer a typical ‘coworking’ product here, but for simplicity’s sake, I’ll use the term. It works, and it sounds better. Now, onward.
Working And Living: A Natural Match
It’s no secret that coworking spaces have become hubs for innovation. But in my experience, their true potential emerges when there’s a living element involved. At our Silicon Allee Campus, startups operated side-by-side in the same building, fostering unplanned, valuable interactions—whether in the hallway or over coffee. It wasn’t about forced networking, but about serendipitous encounters in shared spaces.
Coliving added another dimension. By adding living spaces, residents could build stronger bonds outside of work, turning professional ties into real partnerships—and even friendships. By combining working and living, we erased the line between work and home. And for anyone new to Berlin, it was the perfect place to land.
But in the end, it was more than just blending working and living. Let me explain.
Silicon Allee Courtyard: The Heart of the Community
Creating A Third Space
At the center of Silicon Allee was our café, a place that became much more than a spot to grab coffee. It was where the magic happened—where ideas were shared, collaborations were born, and the community came together. Lots of people talk about the ‘Third Space’. Well, for those on campus, this was it. Whether you worked in one of the startup offices, lived in the apartments, or were simply visiting, the café served as a welcoming, unpretentious space.
Our courtyard was another focal point. It wasn’t just a functional outdoor area—it was an open canvas for creativity and interaction. From casual conversations to organized events, it provided the kind of inspiring atmosphere that makes people want to linger, talk, and create together.
Events: The Lifeblood of the Campus
What truly set the Silicon Allee Campus apart was the way we prioritized community gatherings. Monthly meet-ups became a signature feature, drawing people from across Berlin’s startup scene—young entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, tech enthusiasts, and more. These events transformed the campus into a vibrant hub of energy, where ideas flowed freely, and connections were made.
Beyond the meet-ups, we hosted pitch nights, workshops, and informal gatherings that encouraged learning, collaboration, and creative exchange. These weren’t just business networking events; they were moments of genuine connection, where attendees felt part of a larger mission to innovate and support one another. For startups, these gatherings were invaluable opportunities to gain feedback, find collaborators, and refine their visions.
Campus Co-Living: Apartments with a View
Why It Worked
What made our product so successful was our holistic approach. We didn’t just provide office space, apartments, or even events—we created an ecosystem designed to help people thrive. We took the best of these different models, and merged them together. The combination of physical spaces, a strong community ethos, and intentional programming meant that people weren’t just tenants or coworkers; they were part of a living, breathing network.
This approach worked because it focused on human connection. In an era where remote work and digital communication dominate, the Silicon Allee Campus proved the enduring value of face-to-face interaction and shared experiences. People don’t just need spaces—they need opportunities to connect, share, and grow together.
The Lessons of Silicon Allee
Although we’ve moved on from managing the campus, the key lessons remain. It demonstrated that coworking and coliving aren’t just complementary—they’re transformative. When done right, of course. By creating spaces where people can work, live, and connect seamlessly, we can foster environments that drive innovation and collaboration.
More importantly, it showcased the power of community. At its heart, Silicon Allee wasn’t just a space—it was a network of people who inspired and supported one another. From the vibrant café culture to the dynamic meet-ups and shared spaces, Silicon Allee proved that a strong community is the foundation for success.
In today’s fast-evolving work landscape, this blended working/living model highlights the importance of human connection. Spaces matter, but it’s the people and the relationships they build that turn those spaces into something truly special.
R/D Coffee Bar: From Breakfast to After Work
Getting People Back In The ‘Office’
As hybrid work becomes the norm, the idea of blending work and living spaces might just be the key to getting people back into the office. It’s a complex product, but perhaps this solution is simpler than it seems. Right?
As campus manager at the Silicon Allee Campus in Berlin, I saw firsthand how combining working and living can create a real impact. Done correctly, blending both creates the perfect environment for innovation and collaboration. Managing the campus taught me this isn’t just another product—it’s the future. These are the lessons that convinced me.
We didn’t exactly offer a typical ‘coworking’ product here, but for simplicity’s sake, I’ll use the term. It works, and it sounds better. Now, onward.
Working And Living: A Natural Match
It’s no secret that coworking spaces have become hubs for innovation. But in my experience, their true potential emerges when there’s a living element involved. At our Silicon Allee Campus, startups operated side-by-side in the same building, fostering unplanned, valuable interactions—whether in the hallway or over coffee. It wasn’t about forced networking, but about serendipitous encounters in shared spaces.
Coliving added another dimension. By adding living spaces, residents could build stronger bonds outside of work, turning professional ties into real partnerships—and even friendships. By combining working and living, we erased the line between work and home. And for anyone new to Berlin, it was the perfect place to land.
But in the end, it was more than just blending working and living. Let me explain.
Silicon Allee Courtyard: The Heart of the Community
Creating A Third Space
At the center of Silicon Allee was our café, a place that became much more than a spot to grab coffee. It was where the magic happened—where ideas were shared, collaborations were born, and the community came together. Lots of people talk about the ‘Third Space’. Well, for those on campus, this was it. Whether you worked in one of the startup offices, lived in the apartments, or were simply visiting, the café served as a welcoming, unpretentious space.
Our courtyard was another focal point. It wasn’t just a functional outdoor area—it was an open canvas for creativity and interaction. From casual conversations to organized events, it provided the kind of inspiring atmosphere that makes people want to linger, talk, and create together.
Events: The Lifeblood of the Campus
What truly set the Silicon Allee Campus apart was the way we prioritized community gatherings. Monthly meet-ups became a signature feature, drawing people from across Berlin’s startup scene—young entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, tech enthusiasts, and more. These events transformed the campus into a vibrant hub of energy, where ideas flowed freely, and connections were made.
Beyond the meet-ups, we hosted pitch nights, workshops, and informal gatherings that encouraged learning, collaboration, and creative exchange. These weren’t just business networking events; they were moments of genuine connection, where attendees felt part of a larger mission to innovate and support one another. For startups, these gatherings were invaluable opportunities to gain feedback, find collaborators, and refine their visions.
Campus Co-Living: Apartments with a View
Why It Worked
What made our product so successful was our holistic approach. We didn’t just provide office space, apartments, or even events—we created an ecosystem designed to help people thrive. We took the best of these different models, and merged them together. The combination of physical spaces, a strong community ethos, and intentional programming meant that people weren’t just tenants or coworkers; they were part of a living, breathing network.
This approach worked because it focused on human connection. In an era where remote work and digital communication dominate, the Silicon Allee Campus proved the enduring value of face-to-face interaction and shared experiences. People don’t just need spaces—they need opportunities to connect, share, and grow together.
The Lessons of Silicon Allee
Although we’ve moved on from managing the campus, the key lessons remain. It demonstrated that coworking and coliving aren’t just complementary—they’re transformative. When done right, of course. By creating spaces where people can work, live, and connect seamlessly, we can foster environments that drive innovation and collaboration.
More importantly, it showcased the power of community. At its heart, Silicon Allee wasn’t just a space—it was a network of people who inspired and supported one another. From the vibrant café culture to the dynamic meet-ups and shared spaces, Silicon Allee proved that a strong community is the foundation for success.
In today’s fast-evolving work landscape, this blended working/living model highlights the importance of human connection. Spaces matter, but it’s the people and the relationships they build that turn those spaces into something truly special.
R/D Coffee Bar: From Breakfast to After Work
Getting People Back In The ‘Office’
As hybrid work becomes the norm, the idea of blending work and living spaces might just be the key to getting people back into the office. It’s a complex product, but perhaps this solution is simpler than it seems. Right?
