A cozy atmosphere, healthy food, and a front-row view of the ocean – this is what defines the
coworking space that has become a real gem for those who value balance between work and
comfort.
Today we are speaking with Alena Ferreira, administrator of the Santa Rita office center.
Coworking is not just an office space but rather a community of like-minded people. How did
it come about?
It all began with the idea of bringing together professionals who wanted to work in a comfortable,
stylish, and intimate environment. We wanted to create a space where work inspires rather than
exhausts. Our coworking space is located on the oceanfront, just 100 meters from the Estoril
promenade. In the mornings, you can enjoy the fresh sea breeze and admire the ocean.
We deliberately chose a small capacity – only 16 desks – to preserve the feeling of coziness and
comfort.
Why did you choose the coworking format instead of offering only individual offices?
Our office center has around 30 separate offices, studios, and fitness rooms, but in one of the
spaces, we decided to create a coworking area.
Coworking today is not only a trend but also a modern necessity. We embraced the idea
wholeheartedly and decided to create a premium-class coworking space.
We believe we succeeded: it’s a large, beautifully designed room with comfortable workstations,
sound-absorbing panels, high-speed internet, a printer, and other equipment – all in a building that,
let’s not forget, is right on the oceanfront.
There is also a huge, beautifully landscaped green terrace, designed by a landscape architect so that
it blooms year-round. We have common plants – palms, thuja, bougainvillea, roses, lavender – as
well as rarer ones for Portugal, such as birches, sunflowers, cornflowers, daisies, and bellflowers.
On the terrace, under a canopy, you can work at a large table with chairs, or relax on the sofa or
armchairs in the lounge area. It’s also a great spot for business meetings.
Your coworking Santa Rita is part of an office center with a wide range of services. Was that
intentional?
Absolutely! Our residents can not only work but also rest, take care of themselves, and focus on
their health.
At our Center, you can do sports (Pilates, yoga, step, stretching, and more), either individually with
a trainer or in group classes. We also have a physiotherapist who offers various treatments and
sessions.
The Center includes a hair salon, nail studio, cosmetologist, massage therapists, beauty
professionals, a Portuguese language classroom, a Remax office, trading services, and even a repair
workshop. Everything is right at hand!
Being on the oceanfront, just 100 meters from the promenade, sounds very tempting.
Yes, it’s wonderful: you can work for a couple of hours and then head to the beach, take a walk or
jog along the promenade, go surfing, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee while gazing at the ocean –
and then come back to work refreshed.
Remote workers often need to take calls or hold meetings without disturbing others. How do
you handle this?
We have phone booths and a dedicated room for business meetings and video conferences.
Your coworking offers healthy food. Is that part of the concept?
A healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition are our allies and companions. We believe productivity is
directly linked to how we eat. That’s why our snack area offers wholesome options: whole-grain
toast, fruit, sugar-free yogurt, berry tea, freshly brewed coffee, and water with lemon and mint or
grapefruit and rosemary. You won’t find sugary sodas or fast food here – only what keeps your
energy up all day long.
A large terrace is a real luxury for a coworking space. How is it used?
Our terrace is truly huge – 300 m². It has a lounge area with soft furniture where you can relax, hold
informal meetings, or simply unwind at the end of the day.
There’s also a dining area for having lunch outdoors. Some residents even work on the terrace – the
Wi-Fi signal is excellent, and the sun and fresh air give a boost of energy.
From time to time, we also host small parties, workshops, and networking events there.
Who usually chooses your coworking?
People who care about balancing work with quality of life. Many of our residents are freelancers, IT
specialists, designers, marketers, consultants – people who value comfort, tranquility, and good
infrastructure.
We also welcome small teams looking for an office alternative. They appreciate the intimate
atmosphere, the possibility to hold meetings, and the inspiring environment.
In three words, what makes your coworking special?
Cozy. Balanced. Inspiring. Everything here is designed so people can work effectively while feeling
comfortable and taking care of themselves. It’s more than just an office – it’s a lifestyle.
One last question: why do people choose your coworking, when they could just as well work
from home, an office, or a nearby café?
In short: convenience and value. You can come and go whenever you want. At home, there are
distractions from family; in an office, there’s a boss looking over your shoulder. In a café, you
always feel like an outsider, drinking coffee by the liter – which isn’t great for health or
productivity.
For work, you need a calm and pleasant, healthy atmosphere. That’s exactly what we have in
abundance at Santa Rita – the perfect coworking space by the ocean.
Thank you for the interview! Now your coworking will surely become a magnet for those
seeking a comfortable and inspiring place to work.