Coworking spaces are starting to look at lot like social clubs of 100 years ago. But why" From its golden lounge chairs to its emerald green conversation pit and rose toile wallpaper, The Wing?s new outpost in Brooklyn?s DUMBO neighborhood?the coworking startup?s third location?feels a lot like a clubhouse, complete with hidden doors that lead to secret rooms and exclusive members-only access.
But this isn?t just any clubhouse: it?s one that stocks only books by female authors in its lending library, features women artists in its gallery, and has primping stations fit for Old Hollywood glamazons. The only requirement for joining" Identifying as a woman?and footing a $2,300 membership fee.

Courtesy The Wing
The Wing?s newest location in DUMBO.
The Wing isn?t the first or the only coworking space targeted to women, nor is it the only coworking space that caters to an ultra-specific community. In their branding, marketing, and design, coworking spaces have always emphasized ?community? wielding the word in an ambiguous and increasingly meaningless way to hint at an informal camaraderie.
But, more and more, new coworking spaces are becoming more like the elite social clubs of the past: spaces where their respective members?usually divided by race, class, or gender?could feel comfortable being who they are, gather for meals, socialize, and escape some of the stresses of public life.
If you live in San Francisco, for example, and you...