werkzone

A werkzone is a designated work area intended for collaborative production, prototyping, and creative activities. It combines elements of a workshop with those of a coworking space and is used across manufacturing, design, technology, education, and community projects to support hands-on work.

The term has no universal official definition and is used in varying ways. In many regions it appeared in maker and innovation communities during the 2010s to describe flexible, resource-rich spaces that enable individuals and teams to develop ideas from concept to prototype outside traditional offices or labs.

Typical features include shared workbenches, access to tools and equipment (such as fabrication tools, electronics workstations, and computing resources), safety training, inventory or tool management, and support services like mentoring or project coaching. Werkzones often operate on membership, hourly, or project-based booking, and may collaborate with schools, universities, or industry partners.

The goal is to lower barriers to experimentation, helping startups, hobbyists, students, and small organizations gain hands-on experience, acquire new skills, and collaborate across disciplines. By pooling equipment and knowledge, werkzones can accelerate prototyping, reduce costs, and foster a sense of community and shared learning.

See also: makerspace, fab lab, coworking space, innovation hub.