Discover the New Roles of Cafeteria in the Workplace

Marwa

1 August, 2022

Gone are the days when workplace cafeterias were just for grabbing a quick bite. Based on our work and research, Let’s share with you three pivotal roles modern cafeterias can assume within your organization:

1/ Cafeteria as a Social Hub: 

Cafeterias now serve as social hubs, offering numerous opportunities for:

  • Building Relationships: Relaxed atmospheres promote connections across teams, creating a sense of belonging and strong support networks.
  • Encouraging Collaboration: Welcoming environments facilitate idea and knowledge exchanges, promoting collaboration and breaking down departmental silos.
  • Nurturing Company Culture: Well-designed cafeterias reflect organizational values and culture, fostering unity, shared purpose, and a positive work environment.
2/ Cafeteria as a Creativity Catalyst: 

Thoughtful cafeteria design can inspire innovation by:

  • Igniting New Ideas: Casual conversations in inviting spaces lead to unexpected insights and innovative solutions, fostering creativity.
  • Enabling Cross-Pollination of Ideas: Diverse perspectives from various departments drive creativity and breakthroughs that may not occur in siloed environments.
  • Incorporating Design Elements: Features like modular furniture, writable surfaces, and technology access transform cafeterias into collaborative, creative spaces.
3/ Cafeteria as a Token of Appreciation: 

A well-designed cafeteria demonstrates an organization’s commitment to employee wellbeing by:

  • Acknowledging Downtime Importance: Designated break spaces signal an understanding of downtime’s role in stress reduction, mental health, and productivity.
  • Prioritizing Employee Comfort: Ergonomic seating, natural lighting, and biophilic elements enhance dining experiences and showcase dedication to employee comfort.
  • Encouraging Motivation: A visually appealing cafeteria instills motivation in employees, inspiring them to excel in their work.

A prime example of a modern cafeteria’s transformative potential is the Money Fellows Workplace in New Cairo. The space welcomes employees with an expansive graffiti mural inspired by the organization’s core values, providing a haven for relaxation and facilitating serendipitous encounters imbued with a sense of joy and playfulness.

Cafeterias have come a long way from their original purpose as simple food stations. They now serve as multifaceted hubs within organizations, playing a crucial role in fostering social connections, inspiring creativity, and showcasing an appreciation for employee wellbeing. By harnessing the potential of these spaces, organizations can create more connected, eng