Hackerspace
Hackerspaces might be considered to be computer based community workspaces, similar to the term makerspace but are technology focussed, with occupants engaging in coding, programming and events such as hackathons (data driven creative problem solving events or competitions). There can be negative connotations also related to the term hacker, but in general one might say hackerspaces consider themselves as normally engaging in tech activity for positive change as opposed to cyber or security threats - but definitions can be differ.
Hacklabs initially started appearing in popular culture during the 1990's, often with a particular political agenda but primarily with a focus on using technology to find solutions to issues. Hackerspaces arrived in the tech lexicon a little later but with very similar meaning, through perhaps with a wider agenda and a more open community and collaborative approach rather than a political agenda.
Makerspaces are similarly tech oriented workshop spaces but with a greater emphasis on physical fabrication as opposed to pure data driven activities such as coding, or example 3D printing.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
We're expanding our collaborative mission by launching DB Intelligence, an exclusive market research advisory panel. Built environment professionals can now get paid to share their expertise on industry trends, products and services.
Panel members receive direct financial incentives for participating in research projects like short surveys, 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups. Register today to shape the future of the construction sector.
Planning condition discharge in England and Wales
A brief exoplanation from a building compliance expert, with further links.
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
Guidance for dealing with element of building fabric control that have increasing importance.
Shading for housing, a design guide
From the Good Homes Alliance and British Blind and Shutter Association.
UK Standard Skills Classification (SSC)
A shared framework for describing skills needs.
Social media ban consultation comes to close
CIOB urges UK Government to consider social media’s role in careers guidance in ban debate.
The latest of eight Skills England apprenticeship units
The addition of battery manufacturing welcomed by ECA with a warning about the risks of fast-tracked apprenticeship units.
Building Control Independent Panel final report
A precis of a key report led by Dame Hackitt with full recommendations and link to the government response.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.
The UK's campaign to reduce noise pollution: Mythbusting, articles and topic guides.





















Comments
[edit] To make a comment about this article, or to suggest changes, click 'Add a comment' above. Separate your comments from any existing comments by inserting a horizontal line.