27 Breakroom Ideas to Boost Employee Morale
Most employees spend their breaks in boring, outdated breakrooms that feel more like storage closets than relaxation spaces. These uninspiring areas drain energy instead of restoring it, leaving your team feeling unmotivated when they return to work.
You can change any breakroom into a space that boosts morale, encourages team bonding, and helps employees truly recharge during their downtime.
This guide shares practical breakroom ideas you can implement on any budget.
From comfortable seating solutions to wellness features, each idea includes step-by-step guidance and pro tips to help you create a breakroom your employees will want to use.
Before you plunge into the great ideas, take a moment to look up what's on your walls. Incorporating Office Signage That Boosts Employee Morale and imagination, and complementing it with can further uplift the team's spirit.
Best Breakroom Ideas: 27 Ways to Improve
Creating a comfortable and engaging breakroom helps boost employee morale and productivity. These practical ideas will help you design a space where your team loves to relax and recharge.
1. Mix Different Seating Types
You can create visual interest by combining sofas, chairs, and bar stools in your breakroom. This variety gives employees options to choose seating that matches their comfort preferences and social needs.
Key Features:
- Soft seating for relaxation
- High-top tables for quick meals
- Individual chairs for quiet time
Pro Tip: Choose furniture in complementary colors to maintain a cohesive look while offering variety.
2. Add Bean Bags for Casual Relaxation
Bean bags offer flexible seating that allows employees to move around easily. They create a laid-back atmosphere that helps people feel more comfortable during their breaks.
Key Features:
- Lightweight and portable
- Comfortable for various body types
- Easy to store when not needed
Pro Tip: Choose washable covers in dark colors to hide stains and maintain a professional appearance.
3. Create Quiet Reading Nooks with Armchairs
Designate a corner with comfortable armchairs and good lighting for employees who prefer quiet activities. This space gives introverted team members a peaceful place to recharge during breaks.
Key Features:
- Comfortable armchairs
- Good lighting for reading
- Quiet location away from high-traffic areas
Pro Tip: Add a small side table and reading lamp to make the nook more functional and inviting.
4. Install Booth-Style Seating for Group Conversations
Restaurant-style booths encourage team bonding and group discussions during breaks. They provide a semi-private space where colleagues can chat without disrupting others.
Key Features:
- Promotes team interaction
- Semi-private conversation space
- Built-in storage options
Pro Tip: Choose booths with storage underneath the seats to maximize space efficiency.
5. Set Up a Coffee Bar with Premium Options
A well-stocked coffee station can become the heart of your breakroom. Include different coffee types, creamers, and sweeteners to satisfy everyone’s taste preferences.
Key Features:
- Multiple coffee varieties
- Non-dairy milk alternatives
- Sugar-free sweetener options
Pro Tip: Invest in a quality espresso machine and provide barista training to interested employees.
6. Add a Smoothie Station with Fresh Ingredients
Fresh smoothie ingredients encourage healthy eating habits among your team. Stock frozen fruits, protein powders, and leafy greens for nutritious break-time snacks.
Key Features:
- High-speed blender
- Frozen fruit selection
- Protein powder options
Pro Tip: Create recipe cards with popular smoothie combinations to help employees get started.
7. Create a Snack Wall with Healthy Options
Install wall-mounted dispensers filled with nuts, dried fruits, and other healthy snacks. This setup saves counter space while keeping nutritious options easily accessible.
Key Features:
- Space-saving design
- Portion control
- Fresh snack rotation
Pro Tip: Label each dispenser with nutritional information to help health-conscious employees make informed choices.
8. Install a Mini Herb Garden for Fresh Seasonings
A small indoor herb garden adds freshness to the space and provides seasonings for meals. Herbs like basil, mint, and parsley are easy to grow and maintain.
Key Features:
- Fresh herbs for cooking
- Natural air purification
- Low-maintenance plants
Pro Tip: Choose herbs that thrive in indoor conditions and assign rotating care duties to interested employees.
9. Add a Popcorn Machine for Fun Treats
A vintage-style popcorn machine creates a fun focal point while providing a popular snack. The smell and sound add sensory appeal to your breakroom atmosphere.
Key Features:
- Retro appeal
- Fresh popcorn on demand
- A variety of flavoring options
Pro Tip: Offer different seasonings like cheese powder, caramel, and herbs to keep things interesting.
10. Set Up a Gaming Corner with Board Games
Board games provide screen-free entertainment that encourages face-to-face interaction. Choose games that can be completed within typical break times.
Key Features:
- Quick-play games
- Team-building opportunities
- Screen-free entertainment
Pro Tip: Survey employees about their favorite games and rotate the selection monthly to maintain interest.
11. Install a TV for News and Entertainment
A wall-mounted TV provides background entertainment and keeps employees informed about current events. Set up channels that appeal to diverse interests and age groups.
Key Features:
- Multiple channel options
- Volume control for different times
- Closed captioning availability
Pro Tip: Use a content management system to schedule different programming throughout the day.
12. Add a Ping Pong or Foosball Table
Table games provide physical activity and friendly competition during breaks. These games help employees burn off stress while having fun with colleagues.
Key Features:
- Physical activity
- Competitive fun
- Team bonding opportunities
Pro Tip: Create a tournament bracket system to build excitement and encourage participation.
13. Create a Puzzle Station for Mindful Breaks
Jigsaw puzzles offer a meditative activity that helps employees clear their minds. Set up a dedicated table where people can work on puzzles during their downtime.
Key Features:
- Stress-relieving activity
- Collaborative project
- Mindfulness practice
Pro Tip: Choose puzzles with 500-1000 pieces that can be completed over several days by multiple people.
14. Set Up a Music System with Playlist Options
Background music creates ambiance and can boost mood during break times. Install a system that allows employees to queue songs or choose from preset playlists.
Key Features:
- Mood enhancement
- Employee music choices
- Volume control options
Pro Tip: Create different playlists for different times of day and let employees vote on their favorites.
15. Add Plants for Better Air Quality
Indoor plants improve air quality while adding natural beauty to your breakroom. Choose low-maintenance varieties that thrive in office environments.
Key Features:
- Improved air quality
- Natural stress reduction
- Low maintenance requirements
Pro Tip: Select plants like pothos, snake plants, or ZZ plants that require minimal care and tolerate various lighting conditions.
16. Create a Meditation Corner with Soft Lighting
A quiet meditation space helps employees practice mindfulness and reduce stress. Use soft lighting and comfortable floor cushions to create a calming environment.
Key Features:
- Stress reduction space
- Soft lighting design
- Comfortable seating options
Pro Tip: Provide noise-canceling headphones and guided meditation apps to enhance the experience.
17. Install a Massage Chair
A massage chair provides physical relief for employees who spend long hours at desks. This amenity shows you care about employee wellness and comfort.
Key Features:
- Physical stress relief
- Wellness benefit
- Scheduled usage system
Pro Tip: Set up a reservation system to ensure fair access and prevent conflicts over usage time.
18. Add Aromatherapy Diffusers
Essential oil diffusers create pleasant scents that can improve mood and reduce stress. Choose calming scents like lavender or energizing ones like peppermint.
Key Features:
- Mood enhancement
- Stress reduction
- Customizable scents
Pro Tip: Use different essential oils throughout the week and ask employees for their scent preferences.
19. Set Up a Stretching Area with Yoga Mats
A designated stretching space encourages physical activity during breaks. Provide yoga mats and basic stretching guides for employees who want to stay active.
Key Features:
- Physical wellness promotion
- Stress relief activity
- Flexible exercise options
Pro Tip: Offer lunchtime yoga classes or stretching sessions led by certified instructors.
20. Create a Phone Booth for Private Calls
A small, enclosed space allows employees to make personal calls without disturbing others. This privacy is especially important in open office environments.
Key Features:
- Privacy for personal calls
- Noise reduction
- Compact design
Pro Tip: Include a small shelf for personal items and ensure good ventilation in the enclosed space.
21. Add Charging Stations for Devices
Multiple charging stations ensure employees can power up their devices during breaks. Include various cable types to accommodate different phones and tablets.
Key Features:
- Multiple device compatibility
- Convenient locations
- Fast charging options
Pro Tip: Install USB outlets in seating areas so people can charge devices while relaxing.
22. Set Up a Small Library or Book Exchange
A book exchange encourages reading and allows employees to share their favorite titles. Create a simple system where people can take and leave books freely.
Key Features:
- Free book sharing
- Diverse reading options
- Community building
Pro Tip: Include a variety of genres and regularly add new titles to keep the selection fresh and interesting.
23. Install Lockers for Personal Belongings
Personal storage lockers give employees a secure place to store items during work hours. This is especially helpful for those who bike to work or bring gym clothes.
Key Features:
- Secure personal storage
- Various size options
- Easy access system
Pro Tip: Offer both small daily-use lockers and larger ones for employees who need overnight storage.
24. Add a Whiteboard Wall for Doodling and Ideas
A large whiteboard surface invites creativity and can serve multiple purposes. Employees can sketch, write motivational quotes, or share ideas with colleagues.
Key Features:
- Creative expression space
- Team communication tool
- Flexible usage options
Pro Tip: Divide the board into sections for different purposes like doodles, announcements, and team goals.
25. Create a Photo Wall Celebrating Team Achievements
Display photos of team successes, company events, and employee milestones. This visual celebration builds team spirit and creates positive associations with the breakroom.
Key Features:
- Team spirit building
- Visual storytelling
- Regular content updates
Pro Tip: Update photos regularly and include captions that tell the story behind each image.
26. Set Up a Suggestion Box for Breakroom Improvements
A suggestion system gives employees a voice in breakroom improvements. This feedback helps you understand what changes would most benefit your team.
Key Features:
- Employee feedback collection
- Continuous improvement process
- Team engagement tool
Pro Tip: Review suggestions monthly and implement feasible ideas to show employees their input matters.
27. Add Seasonal Decorations to Keep Things Fresh
Regular decoration updates keep the breakroom feeling new and exciting. Seasonal changes create anticipation and show attention to detail.
Key Features:
- Regular visual updates
- Seasonal celebration
- Employee participation opportunities
Pro Tip: Involve employees in decoration planning and setup to build ownership and excitement about the space.
Conclusion
These breakroom ideas demonstrate that small changes can have a significant impact on employee satisfaction and workplace culture. You don’t need to implement every suggestion at once. Start with one or two ideas that fit your budget and space.
The most successful breakroom improvements happen when you involve your employees in the planning process. Ask your team what features they value most and which ideas they find most exciting.
Remember, a well-designed breakroom is an investment in your team’s well-being and productivity. When employees have a comfortable space to relax and recharge, they return to work feeling refreshed and motivated.
What’s your next step? Select one breakroom idea from this list and begin planning how to bring it to life.
Your employees will notice the effort you put into creating a better workplace environment, and that appreciation often translates into increased loyalty and performance.
Ready to change your breakroom? Start small, think big, and watch how these simple changes boost your team’s happiness and energy levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does a Break Room Need?
A breakroom needs comfortable seating, basic kitchen appliances, good lighting, and storage space for employee belongings.
How to Design a Breakroom?
Design your breakroom by prioritizing employee comfort, adding flexible seating options, and creating zones for different activities like eating and relaxing.
What Is the Best Color for a Break Room?
Warm, calming colors like soft blues, greens, or neutral tones work best as they promote relaxation and reduce stress.
