A few years ago, office kitchens were plain, clinical rooms. Kitchens are where staff would quickly heat up food and leave without much thought. But as workspaces become more and more flexible, office kitchens are becoming welcoming, functional spaces for staff to relax and unwind. If you’re wondering how to design and install a functional kitchen for your office, here are five important things to keep in mind.
The Kitchen Triangle
When designing a functional kitchen, it should centre on the kitchen triangle. This is a three-point zone of productivity. This includes the fridge/freezer, cooker and sink at each point. These points need to be in close range and unobstructed for the best functionality of the space.
Although this design technique is usually used in restaurants, it is still important for office kitchens. Having seating or tables in the way of these important appliances will make the kitchen cluttered and difficult to manoeuver in.
Multiple Appliances
It’s surprising how many offices add just one or two microwaves to an office kitchen and call it a day. Although most employees are happy with a simple microwave, you can easily make an office kitchen more functional by adding a stove or oven.
Not only does this give employees more lunch options, it encourages healthier eating. Plus, it gives a much more comfortable, relaxed feel which will help boost morale.
Having more appliances also encourages team meals and shared cooking experiences at lunchtime, helping to foster better communication and teamwork.
Efficiency
Office kitchens need to be as efficient as possible. Many employees don’t have time for a long lunch break and don’t want to be waiting in a long queue to use the appliances.
As such, your office kitchen should account for the number of people using it. If you have 20 members of staff who all like to keep their lunch in the fridge, multiple fridges with set shelves for each member of staff will help keep the area efficient.
Social Space
Kitchens are often cramped spaces that have hardly any room for socialising. This often leads to staff members eating at their desks or outside the office which hinders socialising and communication between team members.
If space allows, incorporate a spacious dining area and relaxed seating area for members of staff to use on breaks and during lunch. This gives them a chance to network, catch up with colleagues, and relax in a welcoming space.
If you’re unsure what kind of social area would be welcomed, ask members of staff to give suggestions to help make the space as functional as possible.
Modern Aesthetic
Most office kitchens are clinical looking, plain, and completely devoid of personality. And in any creative working environment, that seems like such a wasted opportunity.
It’s important to use materials that are easy to deep clean, but this doesn’t mean you can’t make the space warm and welcoming.
For example, subway tile backsplash behind counters and stoves gives a simple, modern touch. Or a bold colour on a wall could add a nice feature. You might even consider large-scale artwork to give the room more personality.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to designing and installing a functional office kitchen, it should focus on the needs of your staff. This is why no two office kitchen fit-outs are the same. Make sure to take the time to come up with a functional design and get input from the members of staff who use the kitchen on a daily basis. The more functional you can make it for them, the better it will be received.
Speak to our Creative Edge team to discuss our design services to begin designing and fitting out your office kitchen.
