Experiencing disruption and transformation of communal environments: War’s influence on Ukrainian coworking spaces

Abstract

In light of the Russian–Ukrainian conflict, this study explores the transformation and resilience of Ukrainian coworking spaces amid significant social disruptions, contrasting war-driven changes with those prompted by other exogenous shocks like the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Utilising problem-centred interviews and co-constructed autoethnographic narratives, we probe the evolving roles and organisational shifts these spaces undergo. Despite adversity, they have showcased resilience, adaptability and in most part remained functional. This research illuminates the transformative nature of community-based work environments, paving the way for the development of innovative coworking models resilient to diverse social disruptions.