Recent learnings have emphasized the significance of face-to-face connections and interactions as vital stimulators of success. While meeting rooms and collaborative workspaces have their roles in promoting these interactions, the staff room emerges as the superhero when it comes to fostering genuine connections. It is the place that brings the entire team together, regardless of tasks, departments, or hierarchies.

“The heart is the café – we want people to talk to each other from across the organisation. It’s an opportunity for internal networking and developing career connections that makes us stronger.” Kylie Mooney, Former MC Chief Executive and Project Leader. 

A place where people from all corners of the organization can talk to each other. It offers opportunities for internal networking and career development, making the workforce stronger as a whole. It is, indeed, a hive of cross-pollination.

With an explosion of bright and earthy colours, the staff social hub at MC is full of energy and life.

A hive of cross-pollination.

In a dynamic and energetic staff cafeteria, employees from different departments and teams interact, share ideas, and exchange knowledge, metaphorically “cross-pollinating” each other’s thoughts. It becomes a central hub for spontaneous discussions, brainstorming sessions, and informal networking. This cross-pollination of ideas cultivates creativity, stimulates innovative problem-solving, and creates a more collaborative work environment.

A sanctuary for fostering community and communication.

Moreover, the staff room serves as a sanctuary for fostering community and communication. It is a place where employees can converge, providing a neutral ground for building lasting relationships among team members who do not often cross paths during the regular workday.

The well-designed staff room acts as a conduit for informal communication channels, providing a unique opportunity for managers and colleagues to understand each other on a more personal level. This sense of community and informal communication strengthens the company culture, promoting a cohesive and engaged workforce.

Optimising staff cafeteria design.

To harness the full potential of the staff cafeteria, optimizing its design is crucial. As an integral part of interior design, a well-designed staff room fosters community, nurtures well-being, encourages collaboration, and promotes productivity among employees. Investing in this seemingly unassuming space is a strategic move that pays dividends in the form of a happier, more connected, and more successful workforce. Do not underestimate the power of the staff room, for it is the beating heart that keeps the workplace alive and thriving.

Key considerations when optimizing staff cafeteria design are:

• Layout and Seating Arrangements:

Create an open and inviting layout to encourage free movement and interaction. Use a mix of seating options, such as comfortable sofas, communal tables, and bar-style seating, to accommodate different preferences and group sizes. Arrange seating in clusters or zones to facilitate group discussions and informal gatherings.

A range of seating arrangements at the Futura staffroom.

• Natural Light and Views:

Provide views of the surrounding environment, whether it’s a garden, courtyard, or scenic landscape, to create a more pleasant and uplifting atmosphere.

• Colour and Texture:

Use texture and materials that evoke a sense of comfort and cosiness, such as soft fabrics and natural elements like wood and plants.

Comvita Staff room with soft and calming colours and textures.

• Collaboration Spaces:

Designate specific areas within the staff room for collaboration, such as whiteboard walls or pin-up boards for sharing ideas and information and to encourage impromptu brainstorming sessions.

• Technology Integration:

Ensure easy access to power outlets and charging stations for laptops and mobile devices. Provide Wi-Fi connectivity to support seamless collaboration and communication.

• Facilities:

Include well-equipped kitchenettes or facilities like coffee machines that match your intentions for the space and align with company brand. Incorporate communal dining tables that encourage employees to eat together and engage in conversations.

• Privacy and Acoustics:

Incorporate acoustic treatments to minimize noise distractions and create a more comfortable atmosphere. Designate quiet corners or semi-private spaces for employees who need a moment of solitude.

• Versatility:

Design the staff room with flexible furnishings and movable elements to adapt to different activities and events, such as team meetings or workshops. Host occasional team-building activities or social events in the staff room to further encourage interaction and camaraderie.

A concertina glass wall helps make this cafeteria space at the NZ Wine Centre exceptionally versatile.

• Art and Décor:

Display artwork, inspirational quotes, or company achievements on the walls to add personality and create a sense of pride in the space. Consider incorporating elements of the company’s branding or culture in the décor to reinforce the organization’s identity.

• Greenery and Biophilic Design:

Introduce plants and natural elements into the staff room to create a calming and biophilic environment that enhances well-being and creativity.

By incorporating these design principles, a staff room can transform into a vibrant and inclusive space that promotes genuine connections, nurtures collaboration, and strengthens the overall sense of community within the workplace.