Having lunch in the office: adapting the space

We have already talked in different articles about the importance of having a good environment in the office and get the employees to feel good and safe in their workplace. It is essential to make everyone feel comfortable in the place where they spend a third of their day. We want that because of their well-being, but also because that can result in a better work environment and have a positive effect in productivity. In addition, the need to find the balance between professional and personal life gives relevance to create a space inside the workplace where the employees can eat quicker and spend less time. In medium companies there is no need to do important investments, so we recommend that when designing the space an independent lounge is taken into consideration to become a kitchen or eating room.

With just some partitions will be enough to separate a space destined to eat. An open concept space with a counter where there is a microwave, a sink, a coffee machine, some cupboards to store the utensils and a fridge. In this same room we can have the tables and chairs needed. If it is necessary, we can place a vending machine with food and beverages. Take into account more positive effects: this space can become a small and improvised meeting room or a place to rest a bit while you are working, it can also be a place to create a net of relations with other people of the department or other areas.

Another advantage for the employee will be that it is cheaper to eat in the office than outside (in a restaurant or cafeteria), although that means to do their bit at home. If they are used to eat in a restaurant, when they start eating in the office they have to plan their meals ahead and spend some time cooking, shopping groceries, etc. But if having the opportunity of eating in the office is important, what we eat is essential for our well-being. Come what may, when the company plans a separate space to let the employees eat, it contributes to the well-being of the workers and can be an added complement to improve productivity, reduce delays and a good way to encourage integration between workers, having a nice and good work environment.