Looking for a new office or space to focus on your projects? Here’s where to get work done around the Twin Cities, whether you want to book a desk, rent a silent writers’ studio, or buy a latte for the price of a seat.
Coworking Spaces
Over the years, I’ve tried many coworking spaces in the Twin Cities. There have been affordable yet sketchy spots, as well as luxurious ones owned by international conglomerates. Some catered to tech bros; others to social entrepreneurs. But luckily I have found my favorite coworking space, The Coven, a woman-owned coworking franchise, whose locations include St. Paul, St. Louis Park, and Eat Street. The one I’m most enamored with is The Coven Northeast in Minneapolis.
Community owner Lisa Mangelsdorf’s care in crafting the space is evident in the details. Mangelsdorf’s teaching career took her to Singapore, South Africa, Indonesia, and Malaysia, and some of the wall art at The Coven Northeast comes from these adventures. When I last co-worked there, encouraging inspirational quotes showed up just when I needed them, as if strategically placed by Mangelsdorf.
The real kicker, though, was the snacks. A coworking friend and I couldn’t get over Mangelsdorf’s array of fresh fruit for the taking (mango! kiwi!) that was cut into perfect snackable sizes — so unlike many coworking spaces that favor processed foods. The Coven offers coffee, tea, and even sometimes homemade baked goods.
The Coven’s membership tiers cater to both individuals and teams. Office and desk members get 24/7 access, mail service, and conference room use. There’s also free parking, access to a fitness room, shower, bike storage, and a patio on warmer days. Day passes are $40 and you can rent a dedicated desk for $50.
“The magic is in the community,” Mangelsdorf says, highlighting how members support each other, gather for monthly lunches, and connect through online communities.
The inside of one of the Loft’s writers’ studios, which are designed for distraction-free writing. (Courtesy of The Loft Literary Center)
Writers’ Studios
If you’re not looking for water cooler chitchat, and instead want a place where you can write or read in silence, let me introduce you to The Loft Literary Center’s writers’ studios. Studios are available to rent if you are a benefits-eligible Friend of the Loft (if you donate at least $7.50 per month or $90 per year).
Renters can choose one-month, three-month, and six-month intervals (starting at $140 per month; rates get cheaper the longer the contract). The studios are available for 24/7 access. Writers agree to silence — no phone calls, video calls, music, etc. while in this intentional space, just writing. Lockers are also provided at no additional cost. The Loft Literary Center is located on the second floor of the multi-floor Open Book building, whose lobby also includes a FRGMNT coffee. So grab your coffee and doughnut, and head to work.
Coffee Shops
Of course, coffee shops are popular places for remote work, and everyone has their own favorite. City Cast Twin Cities’ Molly Chase tells me that Northern Coffeeworks in Standish is “quiet as a library” with people tapping away on their laptops. The menu includes locally roasted whole-bean coffee, and both the mocha crafted with smoked sea salt and latte with brown sugar and cardamom are around $6. (I’m still mourning the closure of their downtown Minneapolis location.)
Another coffee shop for remote work is FRGMNT coffee. There are a few locations, but its St. Anthony Main cafe located in the Riverplace building (within walking distance of the Main Cinema) has a unique layout. There’s so much space and a variety of seating options, including both high-top tables and more standard cafe tables and chairs. The building is dog-friendly and there’s also a pool table. The cafe offers Honey + Rye baked goods and Cardigan Donuts. Do some work, then go see a movie! The perfect combination.
Patrons of FRGMNT coffee in the Riverplace building in St. Anthony Main have a variety of options for where to sit, work, eat, drink — or even play pool. (Roseanne Pereira / City Cast Twin Cities)
Libraries
Depending on your project, the many free, reservable meeting rooms at Hennepin County libraries could be a great choice, too. You simply select which library and which room using an online link, then follow online instructions about selecting a time and filling in contact information — no library card necessary.
My personal favorite is the Pierre Bottineau Library, which underwent a refresh in 2024. I’ve taught writing classes in their single, beautiful meeting room that accommodates 15 people. The Minneapolis Central Library has over 15 reservable rooms including those outfitted for video conferencing. And if you are ever in downtown Hopkins, the back area of Hopkins Library is a quiet room, which though not reservable, is a no-talking communal space. (See here for our library crossword for some other ideas!)
