For your business, the breakroom is more than just a spot for your employees to grab lunch. It’s where they can recharge, connect with their fellow employees, and return to work feeling refreshed and ready to take on any challenge. To create the kind of environment you want for your employees, you need to start with the right breakroom furniture. Read on to discover how you can take your breakroom from ordinary to extraordinary, improving your employees’ morale and also boosting your business.
Prioritize Comfort
Happy employees are the cornerstone of a successful business. The foundation for creating a relaxing breakroom environment that improves job satisfaction is comfortable and accessible seating options. Hard or uncomfortable chairs can make employees’ breaks unpleasant and unproductive, preventing them from fully unwinding and recharging for the next part of their day. Be sure to offer options for different activities, such as cushioned chairs or soft sofas for lounging, as well as stools or chairs with tables for eating.
Create Flexible Spaces
You may only have one breakroom, which means it needs to serve multiple purposes, such as a cafeteria, discussion area, and reading room. Versatile furniture that can be easily rearranged can offer employees the level of interaction they want for their break. For example, be sure to provide small tables and independent seating that can be easily moved for those who want time to themselves, as well as sectionals and large tables for employees engaging in group conversations. This type of flexible layout meets everyone’s needs, whether they’re looking to be social or have some calm alone time to recharge.
Balance Comfort with Practicality
Keep in mind that a breakroom won’t be relaxing and stress-free for your employees if the furniture isn’t properly functioning or convenient. Tables need to be well-made and sturdy (not shaky) for easy eating during lunch, and storage should be plentiful and easily accessible for everyone. Keep garbage and recycling cans in plain view to maintain a clean and tidy room. Consider adding extra amenities, such as phone chargers, coffee stations, and vending machines, to show employees that you truly value and appreciate them.
Incorporate Calming Colors and Materials
While comfort and style are important when it comes to breakroom furniture, don’t underestimate the significance of a calming, thoughtfully designed color palette. Calming tones such as blues, greens, and warm neutrals can promote a relaxing environment, while natural materials in wood or wicker can boost coziness. In fact, studies show that certain colors, especially foliage colors, can have a particularly relaxing effect, which can improve employee morale. In addition to furniture, incorporate plants and soft or natural lighting as an escape from the chaos of work.
In summary, a breakroom should be a relaxing retreat where employees can go to recharge mentally and physically and get ready for a productive second half of their day. The right furniture choices, such as comfortable seating, flexible arrangements, and calming colors, can all come together to create a restorative atmosphere, which ultimately benefits your bottom line. Investing in well-made, high-end breakroom furniture can improve your employees’ morale and result in increased job satisfaction and workplace efficiency.
