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Entrepreneurs’ ‘Triadic Spatial Paradox’: theorising the hybrid home-based business workspace experience

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Responding to literature calls to advance theoretical knowledge of the importance of space in entrepreneurship research, we develop 'Triadic Spatial Paradox' as a conceptual model emanating from the creative experiences of entrepreneurs operating home-based businesses (HBBs). Providing a theorised, nuanced unpacking of hybrid entrepreneurial home/workspace experiences, we contribute to entrepreneurship literature by enhancing empirically informed knowledge of neglected space-contexts where paradoxical tensions pervade the lived home/workspace experiences and perceptions of entrepreneurs. The conceptual model emerged from analysing in-depth evidence from entrepreneurs who intentionally set up hybrid home/workspaces. We extend paradox theory whilst embracing Lefebvre's triadic frame (spatial practice; representations of space; spaces of representation), and advance knowledge about the multifaceted paradoxical experiences of self-regulating, autonomous, home-based entrepreneurs in their HBB hybrid workspace. Using their first-hand accounts and lived experiences of their relationship with their diverse HBBs, we reveal how imaginative engagement with their hybrid workspaces intersects with their perceived, conceived and lived everyday homespaces.

Source: International Small Business Journal Researching Entrepreneurship

DOI: 10.1177/02662426251410801

Authors: MariaLaura Di Domenico, Darja Reuschke, William Barnes, Cornelia Tippel

Institutions: University of Surrey, University of Birmingham, University of Southampton, ILS – Research Institute for Regional and Urban Development, ILS Research

Language: English

Topic: Entrepreneurship Studies and Influences

Subfield: Management of Technology and Innovation

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,900