The evolution of office design has shifted towards creating environments that actively support employee wellbeing. No longer confined to desks and meeting rooms, today’s workplaces incorporate wellness and recreational areas that enhance productivity, creativity, and overall job satisfaction.
At Select Interiors, we’ve seen firsthand how strategic workspace planning can transform an organisation’s culture. Thoughtfully designed break areas, wellness zones, and social spaces go beyond being office perks—they are crucial investments in employee engagement and performance.
The Business case for employee well-being spaces
Employee well-being directly impacts business performance. Workplace stress and mental health challenges in the UK contribute to billions in lost productivity annually. A proactive approach to office design can mitigate these issues by creating spaces promoting mental clarity, encouraging movement, and fostering social interaction.
A well-balanced workspace acknowledges the connection between environment and employee experience. When people have access to areas designed for relaxation, informal collaboration, and stress relief, they are more likely to stay engaged and perform at their best.
Integrating recreational areas into office design
Designing effective wellness and recreational spaces requires careful planning. These areas should be easily accessible yet not disruptive to workflow. They should also reflect the company’s culture and employees’ specific needs.
Recreational spaces: energising the workday
Recreational areas introduce elements of play and movement into the workplace, serving as valuable outlets for stress relief and social interaction. When employees have opportunities to take short breaks, engage in friendly competition, or simply step away from their desks, it can lead to improved focus and morale.
Popular options include:
- Games areas – ping-pong or foosball tables encourage lighthearted interaction and team bonding.
- Creative lounges – informal seating with engaging activities like puzzles or board games helps employees recharge.
- Active zones – spaces with standing desks, walking paths, or even mini fitness stations promote movement throughout the day.
Wellness areas: creating space for mindfulness and restoration
A well-designed wellness area provides employees with a space to reset and refocus. These areas can take many forms, but key components often include:
- Quiet zones for relaxation – designed for meditation, mindfulness, or deep-focus work, these areas use sound-dampening materials and calming aesthetics.
- Comfortable lounge spaces – ergonomic seating that allows employees to unwind and recharge before returning to work.
- Tech-free zones – encourage short breaks from screens to reduce digital fatigue and improve mental clarity.
Studies show that exposure to natural light, greenery, and biophilic design elements significantly enhances well-being. Integrating these elements into wellness spaces can improve mood, reduce stress, and boost cognitive function.
Workplace culture and the long-term impact
Beyond immediate benefits, recreational and wellness areas contribute to a stronger workplace culture and long-term employee satisfaction. Companies that invest in these spaces often see:
- Higher employee engagement and productivity – staff feel supported, leading to better performance.
- Reduced turnover – a positive work environment encourages long-term commitment.
- Improved collaboration – casual interactions in shared spaces foster better relationships and idea exchange.
Stronger employer branding – prospective hires view wellness-focused workplaces as attractive, helping organisations recruit top talent.
Investing office design for a better workplace experience
As businesses look towards the future, integrating wellness and recreational spaces into office design is no longer optional—it’s a strategic necessity. At Select Interiors, we specialise in designing workspaces that balance functionality, aesthetics, and employee needs. We help businesses foster engagement, creativity, and long-term growth by reimagining office environments.
Contact us today and let’s create your dream office.
