Creating a better breakroom in your workplace is a simple yet effective way to boost employee satisfaction, productivity, and overall well-being. A well-designed breakroom offers a space where employees can relax, recharge, and foster positive relationships with colleagues, all of which contribute to a healthier, more engaged workforce. Providing a high-quality breakroom isn’t just about offering snacks or drinks; it’s about creating an environment that promotes comfort, convenience, and a sense of community. Here are three key ways to improve your breakroom and provide better breakroom solutions for your team.
1. Provide Comfortable and Functional Furniture
One of the most fundamental elements of any breakroom is its furniture. If the seating or workspace isn’t comfortable, employees are less likely to take full advantage of the breakroom.
A major aspect of breakroom solutions involves providing furniture that accommodates both relaxation and socialization. When employees are comfortable, they are more likely to feel refreshed after their breaks, which can lead to improved productivity throughout the workday.
First, consider the layout of the breakroom. Instead of cramming in a few tables and chairs, create a variety of seating options that cater to different preferences. Include comfortable lounge chairs, couches, or even bean bags for employees who want to relax and unwind. Providing some workstations or standing desks can also accommodate employees who may prefer to check their emails or catch up on work during their breaks.
Make sure the furniture is ergonomic. Adjustable chairs and tables that are height-appropriate can reduce discomfort and promote better posture. A well-thought-out arrangement encourages employees to use the space for socializing, relaxing, or even holding informal meetings. Offering multiple seating areas or creating designated zones for different activities can help create a more inviting atmosphere, giving employees options to suit their needs at any given time.
2. Stock the Breakroom with a Variety of Snacks and Beverages
An essential component of providing better breakroom solutions is offering a range of snacks and beverages that employees can enjoy during their breaks. Food and drink can play a significant role in boosting energy levels and morale. However, it’s important to go beyond the standard offerings of coffee and chips. Providing a variety of nutritious, tasty, and diverse options can show employees that their well-being is a priority.
Consider stocking the breakroom with an assortment of snacks that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Offer healthier options such as fresh fruits, yogurt, granola bars, nuts, or veggie snacks, alongside more indulgent treats like pastries, candy, or chips. Having a variety of choices ensures that employees can find something to suit their individual preferences. Additionally, providing gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan options shows inclusivity and accommodates employees with dietary restrictions.
Beverages are equally important. While coffee is a breakroom staple, consider offering a range of drinks such as tea, flavored water, and smoothies. Having a coffee machine with a variety of options, including decaf and specialty drinks, can elevate the breakroom experience. If possible, providing cold beverages like sparkling water or iced teas during warmer months can also keep employees refreshed and energized throughout the day.
3. Create a Relaxing and Inviting Environment
The ambiance of your breakroom has a significant impact on how employees feel when they enter the space. A relaxing, welcoming environment encourages employees to take the necessary breaks they need to recharge. Thoughtful breakroom solutions can involve adding elements that help foster a calm and pleasant atmosphere. Simple design choices and decorations can create a sense of comfort, boosting employees’ overall mood and energy levels.
Start by choosing a color scheme that promotes relaxation. Soft, neutral tones like blues, greens, and warm earth tones are known to have calming effects, making them ideal for breakroom spaces. Adding natural elements like plants can also contribute to a soothing environment. Indoor plants are known to reduce stress and improve air quality, so incorporating a few potted plants or even a small herb garden can bring life to the space.
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the tone of a breakroom. Opt for bright, but not harsh, lighting that creates a welcoming and energizing atmosphere. If your breakroom has natural light, make sure to take advantage of it, as exposure to natural light can help employees feel more alert and focused. If natural light is limited, consider adding softer artificial lighting or even using floor lamps that provide warmth and comfort.
Sound is another important factor to consider. A quiet, peaceful breakroom allows employees to escape the noise of the office and truly unwind. If your office environment is noisy, consider adding soundproofing measures like noise-canceling panels or using white noise machines to block out distractions. Alternatively, background music can provide a relaxing ambiance, but it’s important to keep the volume low and choose music that’s not too distracting.
Improving your breakroom can have a significant impact on your workplace culture and overall employee satisfaction. By providing comfortable and functional furniture, offering a variety of snacks and beverages, and creating a relaxing environment, you can implement breakroom solutions that contribute to a healthier and happier workforce. Employees who have access to a well-designed, inviting breakroom are more likely to feel valued, reduce stress, and come back to work feeling recharged. These improvements don’t have to be expensive or time-consuming but can create a lasting, positive effect on employee engagement and productivity.
