Creating Social Destinations at Work

Organizations are placing increased emphasis on work spaces that promote social connections and information sharing. Imagine coffee shops and coworking spaces inserted into the landscape of a larger organization: these spaces build trust among employees, support wellbeing, improve decision making, and boost company culture.

Here we explore the various zones needed to make a café space function as a casual space in a professional setting. For example, WorkCafé utilizes a variety of places and zones to provide options for employees. Each zone has a specific design intent to encourage desired user behaviors. Further, the zones work together to accomplish the design intent for the café as a whole. Below are the five key zones that ensure your café works for you and supports your team.

Five key zones

The Resource Zone offers the tools and technology workers need to do their best work. This space is hosted by a concierge, who sets the tone for the space by making guests and employees feel welcome. The concierge also provides services such as scheduling, assistance with luggage or technology support.

The Social Zone is the heart of the WorkCafé. People naturally gravitate here for connections over meals, coffee and refreshments. Reinforcing the culture and the brand, the social zone brings workers together to connect to one another and the organization as a whole.

The Nomadic Zone provides alternative work spaces for employees to meet with coworkers or “get away” for individual work. When located adjacent to the social zone, this area offers a lively place for collaboration. When away from this central hub, it offers a secluded place for focus and rejuvenation.

Kitchen + Dine promotes a communal atmosphere in the social space. This area supports the needs of workers, dietary restrictions and cultural preferences. The space can be reserved, and technology easily included, for corporate events or working lunches.

Meeting Zones are designed to enhance all forms of collaboration. Settings can be formal or informal, and can accommodate scheduled or spontaneous meetings for any sized group. The meeting zone suits guests and employees alike.

Interested in learning more about the WorkCafé? Curious about the benefits of a café in your space? We would love to hear from you. Connect with us at info@custerinc.com or drop us a line here.

 

Custer is proud to bring you insights from our partner, Steelcase.