In this week's edition, we're going to discuss how creating cosy areas in your office can affect the atmosphere at work and the experience of your clients. Here are the main points:
Breakout spaces are not just extra spots to hang out; they provide quiet areas where your team can recharge and connect.
These areas help keep the main office tidy and professional by preventing food smells and clutter from spreading around.
They are valuable for improving workplace culture and supporting employee well-being.
You might think that having a breakout area is a luxury, especially if your office is small. However, when you see how much they can enhance the work environment and shape how people see your brand, you may want to consider having one.
Let's dive in!
The big idea
In a recent project, I redesigned a school staff room to include a modest but intentional breakout space. I took down one wall to open the kitchenette into a small breakout area, then enclosed it with a glass partition.
The breakout space has a wrap-around window seat and a clear purpose: to give teachers a proper place to step away from their desks. Not just to eat, but to reset, recharge, and reconnect.
It sounds simple, but the results were deeply impactful.
It has become a comfortable social space where conversations flow freely, team dynamics are strengthened, and the staff feel that the organisation values their needs and well-being.
Here are some common misconceptions about breakout areas: