Break rooms will play an even more significant role in the lives of employees once people can return to their offices. Many people now are working from home and creating their own home offices and break rooms to enjoy. In a shifting workplace, focusing on employee engagement for those who do return to physical offices will be crucial.

A break room is a place where employees can get away from their desks and formal office spaces. It serves as a refresher during the day where they can get a quick bite to eat or a cup of coffee, talk to coworkers, or even play a game before getting back to work. Here are some ways designers can reinvent the break room experience.

Embracing Outdoor Spaces

In the past year, many employers have had to redesign their workspace and break rooms to meet social distancing standards in light of the pandemic. As a result, employees who have been able to go back to work are far apart and may seem like they can’t interact with other employees. 

A global health crisis is one way to shed light on the value of fresh air, but the truth is, biophilic design has been a growing trend for a long time. A dose of sunlight and plant life can do wonders for productivity between worktimes — and contribute to good air quality to boot.

Consider creating outdoor alternatives for breaks that can revitalize employees. A great design option would be to create a balcony, terrace, or other outdoor space for employees to take a break, allowing for more collaboration between employees. Add some patio furniture and circular tables to enhance the area, and plant trees and flowers to keep  the space aesthetically beautiful.

Allowing Snacks and Keeping the Coffee Flowing

Breaks are often associated with food and drink. Coffee is the lifeblood of many employees, so designers could add a small coffee bar to accommodate gathering around a common enjoyment. Some major offices have even installed full-on cafeterias or snack stations to accommodate employees.

Architects may not be in charge of what amenities companies offer, but they can make these food and drink experiences more enjoyable through design. Always make sure there are ample tables and dining opportunities available for employees.

Also, designers should consider multiple modes of sitting. Not every employee will sit around a table for a complete meal every time they take a break, so create accommodations for various sized groups. Make room for a few booths and bar-style seating for any type of break room need.

Making Room for Fun and Games

What employee wouldn’t love an entire game room in their office building’s break room? Providing an opportunity for employees to get their minds off work, even for a short game of pool, can boost productivity and break room ratings. Design a space in a break room separate from any dining areas, outfitted with games like foosball, ping pong, or billiards.

If that isn’t a realistic option — or doesn’t fit the work culture — simplify this idea to encourage connection and fun without extravagance. Designate a corner to board games, card games, or even puzzles. Creating a space that’s open and comfortable will attract employees to the game area. Add multiple sizes of tables and chairs for comfort and collaboration with other workers.

Incorporating Flexible Furniture

Making the break room a flexible space is a design trend that’s hitting every office building and even some homes. Flexible furniture, also known as transformable furniture, allows for new areas to be designed within a space. 

Incorporating multipurpose furniture allows for both comfort and function. Transformable tables can turn from small, one- or two-person tables into a table large enough for team collaboration in one motion. Some sofas can turn into benches by removing a few cushions. 

This kind of flexibility eliminates the need for multiple pieces of furniture to create openness in the break room — without requiring cavernous office spaces. Not every client will have the budget and ownership to design off-the-wall break rooms. Flexible design allows for creativity that can accommodate even a small company’s needs.

Blending in Health Opportunities

Another unconventional idea for a well-designed break room is one that incorporates healthy living. With the pandemic, health has become a critical topic in all areas of life. As people begin to filter back into their offices, they will want to keep health at the forefront of their daily lives. Incorporating health-related facets will make for a well-designed break room.

One way to ensure health is at the forefront is by providing plenty of water fountains and water bottle filling stations. People everywhere carry around their own water bottles to keep drinking throughout the day, so this is almost necessary for break rooms. Choosing touchless options over the traditional fountain can make this installation more sanitary and inviting.

Additionally, design a space where people can get in a quick mid-day workout. What could serve better as a break option than a small fitness center? Create space for a few treadmills, ellipticals, and a stretching or yoga area. Many employees would love the chance to work out mid-day stress in a wellness space.

Creative Ideas For Better Break Rooms

Break rooms should invite employees to take a break. Design elements such as collaborative spaces, outdoor movement, and plenty of space for social distancing are all becoming essential aspects when it comes to offices and break rooms. These unconventional ideas will be sure to amp up employee break rooms along with people’s spirits in the workplace.

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