A great break room is an often overlooked but essential part of any Colorado workplace. More than just a place for employees to grab a coffee or heat their lunch, a well-designed break room can create a space that fosters collaboration, creativity, and productivity.
This month, we explore the benefits of a great break room for both employees and employers and the elements of a office common area design, and we will also provide tips on break room essentials.
Benefits for Employees
The break room can be a haven for employees, providing them a space to relax and connect with colleagues. A well-designed common area can help reduce stress and improve employee morale, increasing job satisfaction and productivity.
One of the best benefits of a great break room is that it fosters collaboration and creativity. When employees have a space to gather and connect, they are more likely to share ideas and work collaboratively. Additionally, when employees take breaks together, they build relationships and a sense of community, leading to a more positive workplace culture.
Another benefit of investing in your company kitchen is that it can improve employee health and wellness. Office kitchens that provide healthy food and beverage options can encourage employees to make better choices and lead to improved physical health.
Benefits for Employers
A well-designed common area can also benefit employers in many ways, including attracting and retaining top talent and improving employee engagement and productivity. When employees are more productive, increases in profits and revenue result.
Employees who feel valued and cared for are more likely to be loyal and committed to their employer. A great break room can help employers demonstrate their commitment to employee well-being and create a positive workplace culture.
Another benefit is reducing employee turnover. Employees with a space to relax and recharge are less likely to experience burnout and stress, improving job satisfaction and retention.
Related: The Rise of Specialty Coffee: Exploring Different Flavors and Roasts
Design Elements to Consider
Creating a functional office kitchen requires careful planning and design. Several elements are vital to a well-designed break room, including:
- Comfortable seating and tables: A comfortable seating and eating area are essential to a great break room. Employees should have various options, including tables and chairs, counters and stools, couches, and coffee tables. The more variety, the better!
- Ample lighting: Good lighting is necessary for any space, especially in your office kitchen. Very few employees want to spend their break time in a dark room (unless, of course, you are providing a nap room). Natural light is best, but if that is not possible, provide ample lighting that is not too harsh or dim.
- Refreshments: Provide your employees with various refreshment options, including coffee, tea, water, and healthy snacks, along with all the supplies they need to relax and recharge.
- Entertainment: Entertainment options such as board games, puzzles, and video games can help employees develop friendships with their workmates as they relax.
Break Room Essentials: Furniture, Appliances, and Decor
Furniture, appliances, and decor are essential elements of any Southern Colorado office. When choosing furniture, prioritize both comfort and functionality. Comfortable seating, such as ergonomic chairs and couches, can help employees recharge during their breaks.
When it comes to appliances, coffee machines with multiple options are a must-have for any break room. Today’s employees are no longer satisfied with a pot of drip coffee; they want a fresh cup made especially for them. Investing in a quality coffee machine, fresh beans and excellent office coffee delivery services is essential to employee satisfaction.
Other essential appliances include a refrigerator, microwave, and toaster oven.
Decor is another essential element of a great break room. Providing artwork, plants, and other decorative elements can help create a warm and inviting space. Additionally, incorporating the company’s branding or colors into the decor can help reinforce the company’s culture and values.
The Impact of Break Rooms on Workplace Culture
A great break room has a significant impact on workplace culture. This space can help create a positive and collaborative workplace culture, increasing employee morale and productivity.
Additionally, office kitchens help break down barriers between employees and create a sense of community. Employees who take breaks together are more likely to build relationships and work collaboratively.
Modern common areas are also a tool for team building. Providing team-building activities, such as games or puzzles, can help employees work together and build trust.
Related: 3 Types of Meetings You Can Have in the Break Room
Tips for Maintaining a Great Break Room
Maintaining a great break room requires ongoing effort and attention. Here are some tips for keeping your space in top shape:
- Encourage employees to clean up after themselves: Providing cleaning supplies and encouraging employees to clean up after themselves can help keep the kitchen clean and tidy.
- Restock refreshments: Regularly restock the coffee station with coffee, tea, and healthy snack options.
- Schedule regular deep cleanings: Scheduling regular deep cleanings can help keep the break room clean and sanitary. This includes weekly disposal of leftovers in the fridge.
- Ask for feedback: Soliciting employee feedback can help identify improvement areas and help keep the common area up-to-date with employee needs and preferences.
Conclusion: Your Office Kitchen Can Transform Your Workplace
In conclusion, a great break room is essential to any workplace, improving employee health and wellness, fostering collaboration and creativity, and creating a positive workplace culture. By prioritizing comfort, functionality, and personalization, companies can create a common area that reflects their culture and values and helps attract and retain top talent.
Colorado Pure has everything you need to elevate your Southern Colorado break room. From coffee machines, purified water dispensers, ice dispensers, and well-managed office coffee delivery services, we have all the break room solutions your employees will love. Contact us today to request your free on-site consultation.
