The office kitchen or tea point is more than just a functional space; it’s a place where employees connect and recharge. By enhancing design, you can transform the office kitchen into an inspiring and functional hub. Here are eight creative and practical ways to elevate your office kitchen.

1. Think outside the box

The shape of your tea point can redefine how your team connects and collaborates. A circular tea point invites natural gatherings, perfect for a quick chat, while a U shaped design offers ample counter space for larger teams to prep, eat and meet. For compact spaces, a sleek galley kitchen maximises efficiency without sacrificing style.

The right layout does more than serve practical needs—it fosters interaction, boosts morale and transforms the workplace into a thriving community hub.

See Wavestone's unique circular tea point design here.

Circular kitchen bar area with bar stalls surrounding. Circular lighting above.

Circular kitchen island- Wavestone, London

2. Put your stamp on it

Making your office kitchen more personal is a great way to create a space that feels connected to the company culture and employees' everyday experiences. You can infuse the kitchen with your brand’s identity by using signature colours in the cabinetry, walls or accessories, reinforcing the company’s aesthetic. Branded products can subtly remind employees of the brand’s personality. Adding personalised touches such as motivational quotes or photos, helps create a more inviting atmosphere. Choose appliances that blend functionality with style—perhaps energy efficient options or sleek, modern designs that reflect the workplace's values. Personalising the space with a balance of practical items and creative flair gives the kitchen a sense of belonging, making it not just a functional area but a true extension of your office culture.

See how Jägermeister infuses brand identity into their office space here.

Orange kitchen bar with bottles of Jagermeister behind. Dark green wall featuring neon sign

Branded kitchen area- Jägermeister, London

3. Bringing the outside in

Incorporating biophilia into your office kitchen can completely transform the space, turning it into a vibrant, refreshing hub. Adding plants, natural wood accents and plenty of natural light creates a calming atmosphere that encourages employees to take a break, recharge and socialise. A living green wall, potted herbs or even a few indoor trees can make a tea point feel more connected to nature, boosting creativity and reducing stress. With biophilic design, your office kitchen becomes more than just a place to eat—it becomes a space where wellbeing thrives and employees feel energised.

Click here for more biophilia in Kao's office design.

Minimalist kitchen with greenery on overhanging light.

Biophilic features over kitchen island- Kao, London

4. The power of colour

Injecting colour into your office tea point is a powerful way to revamp the space and elevate the overall workplace atmosphere. Not only does colour have the ability to enhance the mood and energy, but it can also encourage creativity and productivity.

Incorporating your brand's signature colours into the tea point design helps reinforce your company’s identity, making the space feel cohesive and aligned with the company culture. The use of colour can also break up the area into distinct zones, encouraging social interaction and fostering teamwork in a more relaxed setting. Beyond aesthetics, a thoughtfully designed colourful tea point can improve employee wellbeing, creating an environment where people feel comfortable and connected to the brand they represent.

Office kitchen area with brightly coloured patterned feature walls.

Brightly coloured feature walls- PayPal, London

5. Expect the unexpected

Revamping your kitchen with unexpected items or features can transform it into a space that’s both functional and full of character.

Add elements like a chalkboard or writable wall for team messages, brainstorming or playful doodles. Incorporate distinctive appliances such as a retro style fridge, a popcorn machine or even a cold brew tap. Unique furniture choices, like swing chairs or a communal dining table with an unconventional shape, can also make the space stand out. These surprises not only elevate the kitchen’s appeal but also encourage creativity and interaction, making it a lively and engaging hub in the workplace.

Teapot Lights- GPE Brahams House

6. Master barista

Upgrading coffee facilities is a simple yet impactful way to revamp your tea point, boosting both functionality and style. A well equipped coffee station can serve as a much needed escape from work, offering employees a place to recharge and socialise. By providing high quality coffee machines, speciality brews or even a dedicated espresso bar, you create an environment that values comfort and convenience. Additionally, a thoughtfully designed coffee station enhances the tea point's functionality, turning it into a focal point where employees can take a break or collaborate all over a cup of coffee. These upgrades are small but significant touches that show employees their comfort and satisfaction are a priority.

Coffee bar area - Capital Group, London

7. Shine brighter

Feature lighting is a powerful way to revamp your office kitchen and make it a standout space. Bold, statement light fixtures—think oversized pendant lights, industrial style chandeliers or geometric designs—serve as eye catching focal points that elevate the kitchen’s style and character. These dramatic lighting choices not only provide functional illumination but also add personality and flair, making the kitchen feel more dynamic and inviting. Whether it’s a striking cluster of lights above the kitchen island or a unique light installation that doubles as art, feature lighting can transform an otherwise simple space into one that sparks conversation and energises employees.

Click here to see more of Trinity Life Sciences' kitchen space with panoramic views.

Bright open kitchen area with feature lighting and city views.

Feature lighting display - Trinity Life Sciences, London

8. Home away from home

To make your office kitchen more inviting, focus on creating a comfortable atmosphere that encourages employees to relax and unwind. Start by adding soft, plush seating options like armchairs, sofas or even bean bags that offer a break from the traditional office chairs. A mix of comfortable seating arrangements can accommodate both solo breaks and group chats, inviting employees to spend more time in the space. Soft cushions and rugs can make the area feel warmer and more welcoming. The goal is to design a space where employees feel at ease, whether they’re taking a moment to relax or enjoying a casual conversation with colleagues, promoting a positive, communal environment.

Feeling inspired? Have a chat with our design team here.