A checklist for setting up a break room: space, equipment, drinks and snacks, hygiene, house rules, and gathering team feedback.
A good break room starts with your team's needs, not a furniture catalog. Plan the space, equipment, drinks, and cleaning rules, then ask people what is missing.
Space
Choose a room with access to water, outlets, and ideally daylight. Separate the break area from desks so conversations do not disturb others.
Equipment
The basics: a fridge, a kettle or coffee maker, a microwave, a dishwasher or sink with a drying rack, and recycling bins. If your team works shifts, consider round-the-clock access to drinks and snacks – for example snack vending machines.
House Rules
Write short rules: who cleans the fridge and when, how to label food, and where to report missing supplies. Post them where everyone can see them.
FAQ
How much space do we need? It depends on how many people take a break at the same time, not on total team size.
How do we gather feedback? With a short anonymous survey after the first month.