A breakout area, also known as a collaboration space or relaxation zone, is a designated area within a workplace designed to provide employees with a place to socialize and interact outside of their primary workstations. They have become an integral part of the modern workplace. Creating a breakout that stands out requires creating a space that resonates with employees while aligning with the workplace’s goals, brand and values.

This article has some ideas that will help you create an inviting and functional breakout area:

Prioritize Comfort

When designing a breakout area, it is of the utmost importance that the space is extremely comfortable and relaxing. Inclusion of ergonomic chairs and comfortable seating with plush cushions that will allow employees to relax and unwind.

Comfortable sofas and plush cushions used in a breakout room designed by Design Forty Ltd.

Reflect the Organization’s Culture

Every organization has guidelines and elements that reflect their brand, values and culture. When doing decor, incorporating artworks and colours that select those align with the organization’s brand and identity. This brings a sense of belonging to employees.

Branded breakout area for a company that deals with fruit products.

Promote and Encourage Collaboration

Breakout areas should have spaces where employees can have spontaneous brainstorming sessions such as whiteboards and shared tables when having meals or refreshments.

Understanding Employees’ Needs

Before designing the breakout area, it is important to carry out research amongst the employees to understand their needs and preferences. One can conduct surveys and do focus groups. A breakout room curated to the employees’ needs will help them feel at home.

Consider the Available Space

Assessing the office space is vital before coming up with the final design. This will help determine placement and sizes of furniture and decor. The location of the space in the workplace should also be easily accessible by the employees and away from noisy places. This helps the employees relax.

Make the most out of Natural Light

Maximize natural light by using large windows. This gives the space a welcoming brightness and inviting atmosphere. The furnishings used in a breakout area should have reflective surfaces to enhance openness.

A breakout area idea in Nairobi designed by making use of natural lighting.

Add nature’s touch to the space

Integrate biophilic design elements such as plants, green walls, and natural materials to bring a sense of nature indoors. Biophilic elements can improve air quality, reduce stress and enhance overall well-being.

Biophilic design by adding plants to the space. A brilliant breakout area idea used in Nairobi

Focus on layout flexibility

When designing the breakout area, have flexibility in mind in order to accommodate various groups and activities. The furniture should be movable and the space should be adaptable to reconfiguration when needed.

Benefits of the Breakout Area

Improved Cooperation

Breakout spaces promote casual conversations and impromptu teamwork among coworkers. These spontaneous conversations encourage innovation and problem-solving by promoting creativity, idea-sharing, and cross-departmental communication.

Relaxation and Rejuvenation

Breakout areas provide employees with a designated space to take short breaks, unwind and recharge. This helps relieve stress and improve overall well-being.

Enhanced Productivity

Taking regular pauses in a welcoming and energizing setting might help increase productivity. Workers come back to work with renewed energy and focus, which helps them stay focused and attentive all day.

Work-Life Balance

Breakout areas offer employees a space to balance work-related tasks with personal needs and interests. Whether it’s catching up with colleagues, reading a book, or catching up on a show, these spaces promote a balance that encourages employees to recharge both mentally and physically.

Improved Morale

Providing employees with a breakout area shows a commitment to their well-being and satisfaction. This can enhance morale, job satisfaction, and loyalty to the company, leading to higher employee retention rates.

In conclusion, breakout areas represent far more than just a physical space within the workplace. Investing in breakout areas is not just an expenditure but rather an investment in the future prosperity and sustainability of the organization. Let us design your workspace. Contact us today.