Shared spaces in an office can often feel like a second thought, but they really shouldn’t be.
These areas are used every day by everyone, and they have the power to shape how people feel at work.
If a shared space looks nice but doesn’t work well, it becomes frustrating. And if it works well but feels cold or boring, people won’t want to spend time there.
When you find the right balance between style and function, these shared spaces become more than just spots to pass through. They turn into ways to make your office a better place to work, giving people a reason to collaborate, recharge, and enjoy their day a bit more.
1. Start by making comfort a priority
A space that looks great isn’t useful if it’s uncomfortable. Seating should support the body, lighting should feel natural, and the room should be set up in a way that encourages movement. People stay in shared spaces longer when they feel relaxed and supported.
Even something as simple as the temperature or noise level makes a big difference in how people use the room. Comfort should come first, and style can be built around it to create a space people actually enjoy.
2. Let the style reflect your company’s vibe
The way a space looks can say a lot about the company. Bright colours, fun wall art, and creative furniture might suit a design agency, while softer tones and cleaner lines might work better in a law office.
When shared spaces reflect the energy of the people who use them, it helps create a sense of belonging. That style also makes the space more enjoyable to use, whether people are meeting, taking a break, or catching up over coffee.
3. Design with function in mind
It’s easy to focus on how something looks and forget how it actually works. Desks that are too small, tables that are hard to move, or not enough outlets for charging devices can make even the best-looking room frustrating.
Think about what the space is used for and design around that. If people gather to work together, flexible furniture is more useful than fixed layouts. And if the space is mostly for relaxing, add soft seating and calming decor that helps people unwind.
4. Maximise the use of every inch
You don’t need a huge space to create something great. Even a standard office size room can be transformed with smart furniture, vertical storage, or built-in seating that saves space. It’s about thinking creatively and getting more out of what you already have.
Multi-use furniture, like benches with storage or foldable desks, can make a small area feel much bigger. This gives your team more room to move, meet, and work without feeling cramped or cluttered.
5. Keep the space fresh and flexible
Trends change and so do your team’s needs, so it’s helpful to keep your shared space flexible. Instead of permanent fixtures, use furniture that’s easy to move or change when needed. That way, the space can grow and shift along with the people who use it.
A flexible space feels more alive, and people tend to treat it with more care when it looks updated and current. Even small updates like new art, cushions, or lighting can refresh the vibe without needing a full makeover.
