Socially and culturally speaking, there is endless potential in what can be accomplished in an office break room design. Though often overlooked by management, a successful break room that fosters communication, employee introductions, and team-building can heighten productivity and profit. Instead of it being just a place to eat lunch or heat up a sandwich in the microwave, consider the opportunities that exist here. Here’s how to get the most out of your office break room.

A central location that can accommodate couples and groups

 A central location is key to a successful break room. This makes it easy for employees to walk to, encouraging more congregation here from all corners of the building. To this point, a space that is too small to have groups sitting at the same table is going to keep some employees away. At a time when more employees are eating lunch at their desks, this can make a big difference. Provide an easy to get to and relaxing atmosphere for groups to unwind, rest their minds for a moment, and enjoy each other’s company.

Coffee, tea, and other freebies

While you might not have a large budget to play with, stocking up your break room with coffee, tea, and other items are fair ways to attract employees. By using food and beverages, you can make a space more inviting to employees who may not normally hang out together. Freebies puts employees into a situation where they get the opportunity to socialize and know one another. There are some companies who work wonders with monthly pizza parties and other food or beverage themed attractions to help bring people into the break room.

Allowing employees to personalize the space

 Discuss with employees if there’s anything you can do to help make the space more accommodating for them. By giving employees a reason to give their own input to the break room layout, it gives them a sense of ownership and makes them feel welcome. Any opportunity to launch a potluck or an office social gathering, these events can be an opportunity to help personalize the space. Don’t hesitate to think outside the box in making the break room your own. Include company-branded promotional items, such as mugs, to give it an extra bit of spice.

Furniture that considers employee preferences

 When filling out your break room, consider furniture that accommodates employee interests. It’s the little details that employees appreciate. There are a few things one might consider when furnishing, including a large-sized coffee maker, microwave, toaster oven, dishwasher, dishes and utensils, refrigerators, snacks, and power towels and napkins. Remember that you want to create as relaxing an atmosphere as possible. Employees will appreciate the effort put in and in return, you’ll have a break room where employees congregate.

 An effective break room should strengthen the bonds between employees, building social relationships that translate into a more fun workplace overall. Don’t hesitate to ask employees what they would like to see in their break room, as a means of updating it. Every year, take the time to consider ways you can improve the quality of your break room.

 Every company is different, as is every set of employees. Finding new ways to improve morale and build team bonds is key to long-term success.