Ask HN: Other cofounders want to split an office?

14 points by outofoffice 6 years ago | 11 comments

My cofounder Steve and I are looking to rent a small private office, but we only need it 1-2 days a week. I imagine this is a common problem among early stage cofounders...we feel safe around each other even during covid, but collaboration & velocity suffer with zero IRL time.

We found a few spaces for $150-300 per day of the week (if split). Open to anywhere between SF and Palo Alto. You can email me directly: kyleatoutofoffice.app

fred_is_fred 6 years ago |

I have an alternative plan. Get a hotel room. You can book it by the day, it is cleaned every day, and most hotels are now offering day-time only packages that people use as offices. As a plus you earn points and you can pick a new location anytime you want. The front desk may also be willing to store flip charts, markers, etc.

outofoffice 6 years ago | |

Good idea. I've seen a few places doing this around the country (although in SF almost all hotels are unable to open). Hilton in Ohio charges $69/day though, and that's more expensive than a private shared office would be

fred_is_fred 6 years ago | | |

Oh I didn't know bay area hotels were closed. But on the cost since they only need it a few days a week, I don't think the cost would be that high and is easier and more sanitary than trying to share one.

ApolloRising 6 years ago |

You may have to think a bit outside the box to make this cheaper and easier. I have seen it done by just asking people with offices near the two of you to let you rent office space from their offices. Many places may have surplus space. Not sure of your exact location since you did not mention it but even a super small studio apartment or backhouse on a month to month basis would end up cheaper in most places.

outofoffice 6 years ago | |

sdan 6 years ago |

Just want to say: this post is a great way to do user research

notadog 6 years ago |

Have you considered the possibility of finding a larger company or startup in the area with extra space, and then renting out space from them for the 1-2 days per week? It might be easier than finding someone else to split an office space with.

outofoffice 6 years ago | |

Haven't tried that yet. My assumption is that most companies would be worried about security/privacy OR just not be motivated by a few hundred bucks

codegeek 6 years ago | | |

Not to mention liability. What if you get injured in that office. Who is liable ?