Koba has set a new global benchmark by becoming the first workspace to achieve the WELL Coworking Rating. We spoke with Paul Nellist, Managing Director at Koba, to explore what this achievement means for the industry.
Flexible workspace specialist Koba has achieved a groundbreaking milestone as the world’s first WELL Coworking Rated flexible workspace at Koba @ 100 Barbirolli Square in Manchester. This achievement responds to the growing demand for healthier, more sustainable work environments and showcases Koba’s leadership in the coworking sector.
The WELL Coworking Rating, developed by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) in partnership with our team at The Instant Group, is a new benchmark designed to advance health and well-being practices in coworking spaces. Derived from the evidence-backed health strategies of the WELL Building Standard, the rating includes nearly 50 features across air and water quality, light, thermal comfort, movement, and nourishment. Koba’s certification highlights its dedication to creating environments that support physical and mental health, as well as sustainability.
To delve deeper into what this certification means for the coworking industry and how Koba is paving the way, we interviewed Paul Nellist, Managing Director at Koba.
1) Why did you decide to pursue the WELL Coworking Rating for Koba, and how does this align with your broader mission as a coworking operator?
Our commitment to Koba from the outset has been to design, position and operate workspaces that are evidenced-based around health, well-being and sustainability. For health and well-being, WELL is the international gold standard, so it naturally made sense to pursue the new WELL Coworking Rating.
2) What are the key elements that set Koba apart as a workspace focused on health, well-being and sustainability?
I’d start with evidence: our view is that anyone trying to sell a ‘sustainable’ product should back it up with verified data. It’s the first of eight commitments in our sustainability manifesto, which we developed with Cast and Drees & Sommer. This public declaration holds us accountable to our residents and ourselves in leading the industry.
3) How does the WELL Coworking Rating process ensure that spaces meet the highest standards for well-being? Were there any specific challenges you encountered during this process?
There are always challenges because, as an operator, we don’t control the whole building. Fortunately, the rating accounts for this, focusing on aspects under our control. Some standards are quite high—as they should be—but Koba was designed with these in mind, even before the rating existed.
4) How have priorities around sustainability and wellness shaped demand in the coworking industry?
The days of claiming to be ‘sustainability’ focused based solely on coffee beans are thankfully dwindling. If you want people to pay a premium, you need to design and operate spaces differently. This requires new skillsets and alliances with like-minded partners.
5) What does a "wellbeing-focused" workspace look like for members? Could you share examples from Koba?
There are visible and invisible elements. Visibly, Koba feels inspired by nature, with over 300 plants throughout our space and a dedicated Oasis for quiet contemplation. Invisible features include air quality monitors, ‘works with WELL’ lighting and a commitment to nutritional and cleaning standards. It’s about how the space feels to our residents as much as how it looks.
6) Is it possible to generate a return on investment from sustainability-focused spaces?
Yes. Occupiers are willing to pay a premium for Koba spaces. Bold doesn’t necessarily mean expensive—for example, our take-back scheme for task furniture ensures reuse, avoids landfill and retains residual value. Circular business models like this can reshape how flexible workspaces are financed.
7) How has achieving the WELL Coworking Rating influenced how you market Koba?
It’s a strong validation of our health and well-being commitments. The certification is a great conversation starter, and being the first globally has generated significant interest. Since the announcement, we’ve seen a noticeable uptick in enquiries and viewings in Manchester as well as enquiries from potential landlord partners who are future-focused around sustainability and the benefit it brings when twinned with a flexible workspace offering.
8) What role do coworking spaces like Koba play in advancing sustainability and well-being compared to traditional offices?
Competition in the market is driving up standards. Standing still on sustainability is no longer viable for premium operators and we hope more operators follow our lead to raise the bar further.
9) How do you measure the success of a wellbeing-focused approach?
Through a mix of quantitative and qualitative research—annual surveys, feedback from onsite staff and resident sentiment. We’re already applying learnings from Koba @ 100 Barbirolli Square to our upcoming sites elsewhere.
10) What’s next for Koba in sustainability and well-being?
The bar will continue to rise as occupiers and regulations demand more. For Koba, the commitment is to lead the industry through this evolution. If we stay true to that, the future is bright.
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Koba’s groundbreaking WELL Coworking Rating is a testament to the company’s dedication to creating healthier, more sustainable workplaces. As the demand for well-being-focused spaces continues to grow, Koba’s innovative approach serves as an inspiring blueprint for the future of coworking.
Learn more about the WELL Coworking Rating here, as well as our Sustainability Index, which helps operators track and report on their sustainability initiatives.
