Quality coffee tops the list as the most important office feature

The quality of the coffee is the most important feature for office occupants, with two thirds of workers saying a decent flat white or cappuccino is an essential for a productive and engaged workforce.  Research by coworking developer Areaworks also found that being closer to the outdoors, and the ability to work from a balcony or roof terrace was an important factor for 64 percent. Hanging chairs, bean bags and flexible spaces are a must for most, as half of office workers want to ditch fixed desks in favour of casual seating and hot desking, making it a top five most favoured feature. the office gimmicks failed to feature on most people’s workplace bucket list. The installation of office gimmicks such as fireman’s poles and ball pits all failed to feature on most people’s workplace list, but slides did make the list, while the majority (66 percent) included a fridge complete with beer and prosecco among their choice items.

TOP 10 DREAM OFFICE ITEMS

1. Kitchen facilities e.g. coffee machine, beer fridge
2. Outside space e.g. roof terrace, balcony
3. Casual seating e.g. bean bags, sofas and hanging chairs
4. Plants
5. Games e.g. table tennis, table football
6. Water feature
7. Pets
8. Sleeping pods
9. Hammocks
10. Slide

Those in marketing, recruitment and HR are most likely to want to be able to bring their pets to work, while those in retail, social care and pharmaceuticals simply want some fresh air and outdoor space.

Panny Lawrence, Founder and Director of Areaworks, said: “It’s intriguing to see what makes the dream workspace for the nation’s office workers, and what is top of the list when it comes to furnishing and designing the ultimate space.”

Like-minded people, those with complementary skills, and creatives were the qualities which Brits hold in highest regard when it comes to choosing a workspace.

Lawrence continues, “Traditional attitudes to what should be in a workplace are fast changing, as twice as many millennials would like office games such as table tennis and table football than their older counterparts.

“Happy and relaxed workers are likely to have increased productivity and motivation, as well as making more money and generally enjoying their work.”