8 tips for a relaxing break out area
1. Prioritise flexibility: Choose furniture on wheels or that is lightweight and modular so it can be easily moved around the room. Mobile tables and stackable chairs make it simple to reconfigure the space to suit different groups or purposes throughout the day.
2. Choose durable, easy-clean materials: Opt for robust materials and fabrics designed to withstand heavy daily use. Hard-wearing table tops, wipeable upholstery and stain-resistant finishes make maintenance easier and ensure your furniture stays looking good for longer.
3. Offer a variety of seating options: Comfort and choice go hand-in-hand. Include a mix of soft lounge seating like sofas and armchairs, casual seating such as bean bags and pouffes, and upright chairs or benches for dining or working. Active seating options can also support posture and movement. This allows students or staff to choose how they want to sit depending on what they are doing.
4. Reduce noise for a calmer environment: High ceilings and hard surfaces can create an echoey, distracting space. Add acoustic panels to the ceiling or walls, or use upholstered screens to dampen sound. Upholstered furniture also helps absorb low-frequency sounds, which can improve speech clarity.
6. Zone the room by activity: Divide the room into dedicated areas for eating, relaxing, group collaboration and quiet study. Use different furniture styles and layouts to visually reinforce each zone and help users choose where to go based on their needs.
7. Provide options for sitting and standing: Many people appreciate the opportunity to stand during their break. Include poseur tables or bar tables with bar stools to support standing or perching. This can also encourage more dynamic conversations and casual interactions.
8. Make cleaning and maintenance easy: Stackable chairs, folding tables and mobile units help keep the space clean and flexible. Choose furniture that can be easily moved aside or reconfigured so that cleaning staff can access all areas quickly and efficiently.
With the right furniture, a breakroom can be so much more than a place to pause. It becomes a dynamic, inclusive environment where everyone can feel comfortable - whether they want to unwind, catch up with colleagues or knuckle down on a project.
Still have questions about how to furnish your breakout area? Our team of experts is here to help. We’ll guide you through the best solutions for your space. Get in touch today!
