What is a Breakout Space?
A breakout space is a designated area in an office which can be used for relaxation or collaboration. These areas offer employees a space to take a break and unwind or focus on tasks in an informal environment. Breakout spaces help to reduce burnout and increase job satisfaction by offering a balance between work and play.
In this article, we give you an easy step-by-step guide to creating the ideal breakout space for your team, whilst answering the most frequently asked questions we get.
7 Steps to Creating the Perfect Breakout Space
Creating the perfect breakout space involves careful planning. It is important to consider your team size, their needs and your budget.
Even if you’re renting a serviced office, most of these steps still apply. Flexspaces like serviced or managed offices allow you to rent a workspace with dedicated breakout areas, which you can customise. Many providers just require the space to be returned to its original condition at the end of the contract.
Step 1: Define the purpose of your breakout space
Understanding the purpose of your breakout space will help guide your furniture and design choices. Would you like your breakout space to be an area for collaboration or purely relaxation? Some businesses may opt to have a mixture of both, which is a great option if you have limited space.
Step 2: Choose the right location within your building/office space
Breakout spaces should be in a quiet area which provides an ‘escape’ from the main workspace . This gives employees the chance to relax, or if they choose, they can work from the space. The breakout area should be easily accessible but still private enough to encourage informal conversations and socialising.
If you’re renting a serviced office with a dedicated breakout area, we recommend positioning workstations further away to minimise distractions. Providers are often willing to customise the spaces and can advise on the best layout.
Step 3: Ensure the layout can be easily reconfigured if necessary
If you have limited space or would like your breakout area to be multifunctional, modular furniture is perfect as it allows you to reconfigure the layout easily. Foldable tables and stackable chairs are also perfect for maximising the space, so it can be used for different group sizes or activities.
Step 4: Prioritise employee comfort
Invest in soft seating like sofas or bean bags to ensure employee comfort. Even if the breakout areas are used for collaborations or brainstorming sessions, comfortable seating gives the space a less formal feel.
It's important to note that employees may have different opinions on what is considered comfortable seating, so ensure you can offer a variety of seating if necessary.
Step 5: Incorporate technology
Whether the breakout space is being used for relaxation or collaboration, ensure it is equipped with the right technology. We have found that clients welcome breakout spaces with features such as wireless chargers, Wi-Fi and presentation screens that can be used as TVs.
Step 6: Add natural elements and creative touches
The best breakout spaces are bright and spacious with natural light and outdoor views. If you’re in an internal office and don’t have a window, try adding plants or artwork to boost mood and productivity.
Bear in mind that breakout spaces can sometimes get noisy, so installing acoustic panels and soft furnishings like rugs can help to absorb sounds.
Step 7: Maintenance
Creating the ideal breakout area includes maintaining the space. A messy, unkept area can be very uninviting and off-putting for those looking for somewhere to relax.
If you’re providing refreshments in your breakout space, ensure these are fresh and topped up. Investing in storage items will also help to keep the area tidy and clutter-free.
FAQs About Breakout Spaces
Here are the most frequent questions we get asked when clients approach us seeking office space to rent.
Why should I have a breakout area in my workspace?
A breakout area provides your team with a space to recharge away from their desks. The change of scenery reduces stress and mental fatigue whilst promoting a healthy work-life balance. This has been proven to increase employee satisfaction and productivity
What features should I include in my breakout space?
• Comfortable seating: Sofas, lounge and bean bags for relaxation.
• Workstations: A desk and chair can be helpful for those wanting to work away from their own desk.
• Technology: Chargers, Wi-Fi and screens if the area is to be used for presentations.
• Basic kitchen amenities: Kettles, fridges, cutlery and crockery for mealtimes.
• Refreshments: Coffee machines, snacks and water stations.
• Natural elements: Plants and natural light (where possible).
Do serviced offices include breakout spaces?
Yes, typically, a serviced office will include access to shared breakout spaces, which is covered in the cost.
Serviced offices in major cities like London are known for their luxury breakout spaces, including facilities like gyms, wellness spaces, and games rooms.
Can I have a dedicated breakout area in a serviced office?
Yes. Many serviced office providers can build a dedicated breakout area within your office, whilst managed workspaces include dedicated breakout spaces as standard.
Can I customise a breakout space in a serviced office?
If you have chosen a dedicated breakout space within your office, then yes, you can customise it and change the layout or add furniture. However, it is important to check with your provider to confirm if you can add artwork or kitchen appliances, as this may require approval or safety checks.
If you do not have a dedicated breakout space, then you cannot customise the space as it is shared by all tenants and must remain neutral.
Are there any limitations to using a breakout space in a serviced office?
Yes, there can be limitations when using a breakout space. Some serviced office providers may restrict the types of activities conducted in shared spaces. For example, loud conversations, meetings or presentations might be discouraged.
Additionally, there may be rules regarding the types of food and drink that can be consumed in the communal spaces to prevent strong odours and disruption to other tenants.
Can I use a breakout space in a serviced office for hosting client events or informal meetings?
Breakout spaces can certainly be used for informal meetings; however, if you are looking to host client events, this will need to be approved by the building management. There can sometimes be restrictions on the number of people or the type of event.
Can I use a breakout space as a meeting room?
A dedicated breakout space can be used as a meeting room, especially if you hold regular meetings. But shared breakout areas may not be suitable for formal meetings due to the setup and lack of privacy.
Creating the perfect breakout space for your team is key to improving productivity and employee satisfaction. A well-designed breakout area can encourage collaboration and provide a time-out during the day. Comfortable seating, natural elements and kitchen facilities can help to turn your breakout space from functional to a valuable resource.
Remember to discuss any restrictions with your landlord or serviced office provider, especially regarding booking, customisation and usage guidelines.
