Top 5 Workplace Canteens

Socialising & dining area for staff

As a place for not only dining but also socialising and getting away from the desk, canteen furniture has evolved and become a place where informal work meetings and social networking can take place. In our last post, we set the agenda for staff breakout furniture, we look at our pick of five canteen designs and the reasons why they stand out.

Airbnb:

The concrete floors, wooden food station and clean and modern design carry the look and identity of the company; contemporary, modest and homely. The highlight of this project is the kitchens that have been designed like a domestic interior kitchen, complete with an island and pans hanging above.

Nike:

This is one corporate canteen that manages to create a reflection of its branding into the interior of its spaces with ease. The inspiration of sporting facilities mixed with company logos and vibrant colours creates a space with multiple seating options and spaces for dining and socialising.

The booth sofas stand out in this project as they create a semi-private area for informal lunchtime meetings.

Langland:

Based in a part-listed building, the new offices for healthcare advertising specialists Langland have been refurbished with new office spaces, a library, a massage room and a canteen. The modest and simple design of the offices is a reflection of the style of work they do.

Placed on a floor above and separate from the office spaces, the highlights of this canteen are the brightly coloured red picnic benches and blackboard wall.

GlaxoSmithKline:

The Bogotà office design is much more laid back than the standard corporate office design. The striking use of colours attracts you to each space, with large lettering to motivate staff.

The canteen table has been created with a similar flair, and the feature that stands out is the ceiling. Panels add an effect of ripples with light-emitting between various panels making the space light and airy.

Random Studio:

The offices for creative firm Random Studio in Amsterdam are the last of our top five, and not the least favourite. The homely interior of each space, with an abundance of greenery and artwork, is not all that is great about the office.

The snug and cosy feeling in the canteen is well thought out but not over-designed. The standout feature of this design is the raw use of wood for the walls and furnishings.