Importance of a “Third Space” at the Office

What is common between Gmail, Post-it notes, Facebook’s “Like” button, and Google News? Kudos if you guessed it right—all were ideas born out of casual coffee conversations and informal chit-chats between co-workers in an office. And these conversations did not take place in a meeting room with a formal and uptight atmosphere but in the much more casual setting of a cafeteria or a break room. Many such game-changing ideas have been born in break rooms or designated “chill-out zones” in offices. So, what exactly is the importance of socialization and a “Third Space” in the modern-day office? This blog explores the concept in detail.  

We spend nearly 83,200 hours of our lives at work, so it becomes even more important that such a place is designed not just for productivity but in a manner that breeds creativity, builds a tight-knit team, and brings out the best in everyone. 

 What exactly is the "Third Space"? The concept of a Third Space broadly refers to a place that exists outside a person’s first space (home) and second space (workplace). It is a setting where informal meetups and organic socialization take place, often in locations like cafes, restaurants, or community centres. 

This idea is quickly gaining traction in workplaces, where Third Spaces are being created to foster collaboration, build a sense of community, and promote employee well-being. 

Gone are the days when office cafeterias were merely passive eating areas with a few food outlets. Today, they serve as Third Spaces—vibrant environments for social interaction, platforms for reinforcing company culture and values, and much more. The presence of such spaces reflects a company’s commitment to the mental well-being and work-life balance of its employees. 

Organizations that have embraced this concept are experiencing remarkable benefits: enhanced socialization, increased synergy, improved productivity, reduced attrition, and more. 

Here’s how a “Third Space” contributes to modern workplaces: 

1) Promotes Socialization

A survey conducted by Compass Group, the world’s largest food services company, revealed some eye-opening numbers regarding the benefits of socialization at work. Seventy-four percent of employees said they liked to participate in both organic and organized in-person socialization, and that number rises to a staggering 94% for employees working in a hybrid setting. Many even mentioned that the main motivator to come to the office was to meet their colleagues and friends.   About 70% of fully remote workers said they would be willing to return to the office in a hybrid setting if they had a close friend at work. This comprehensive survey spanned 21 different marketplaces and included more than 30,000 respondents. If the data is anything to go by, the importance of socialization cannot be emphasized enough.  

The camaraderie developed outside the workplace often translates into stronger synergy at work. When team members share a bond, communication becomes more natural and fluid, leading to faster progress and noticeable improvements in individual performance. Informal interactions, such as conversations over coffee or in the cafeteria, foster organic and free-flowing dialogue that strengthens cohesion and teamwork. In contrast, the rigid and structured communication typical of meeting rooms can stifle expression and, at times, lead to discord within the team.

2) Enhances Communication

An inviting atmosphere, such as a well-designed break room or cafeteria, encourages open discussions and a wide range of opinions. Brainstorming sessions conducted in the relaxed environment of a break room often generate better ideas than those held in the uptight and stiff atmosphere of a meeting room. In the Compass Group report, it is revealed that 8 out of 10 employees said that a work atmosphere in which they can communicate freely and without barriers of hierarchy helped them feel less stressed and more tuned in to work, as it made them feel included and valued. 

3) Boosts Creativity

“Money never starts an idea; it is the idea that starts the money.” — William J. Cameron. 

Creativity is the new currency, and it flows best when the human mind is at its most relaxed. This rarely happens in the dull atmosphere of a meeting room or during rigid discussions. Break rooms and cafés provide the kind of relaxed environment where even the most introverted team members open up, ideas begin to flow, and the entire team feels represented.

4) Supports Mental Health

In today’s world, where mental health and well-being are increasingly prioritized, a third space at work can serve as a vital outlet for stress relief. It offers a positive distraction from work-related pressures, promotes overall well-being, and provides a peaceful retreat when needed. For individuals in high-stress professions such as healthcare or law enforcement, having a "third space" where they can socialize with colleagues, unwind, and temporarily escape the stresses of their jobs is invaluable. Even casual pep talks, often shared over coffee or a snack in the break room, help alleviate job pressures. In fact, 7 out of 10 workers in these domains have said that it was their friends who prevented them from quitting when times got tough by either giving a pep talk or a shoulder to cry on when needed.

5) Attracts and Retains Talent 

A well-designed and equipped third space showcases a company’s fun and positive culture, helping attract top talent. It also fosters deep and meaningful friendships among employees, improving retention and making the company a more desirable place to work the Compass group survey has revealed that nearly 71% of the employees who had an opportunity to socialize at work in a well-designed break room spoke highly of their employer and about 65% of them were less likely to leave in the next two  years . 

 6) Increases Productivity

Well-rested and rejuvenated employees bring their best to work, ensuring higher productivity and superior quality of output. This benefits both the employees and the organization, creating a win-win situation. A survey by Oxford University of call center employees at a large British company revealed that employees who had the opportunity to socialize in a dedicated space were 13% more productive than those who did not have such opportunities. 

7) Breaks Down Barriers

Interactions in third spaces often happen without regard for hierarchy and seniority, breaking down silos and improving synergy between leadership and the workforce. This creates a more collaborative and inclusive workplace environment. 

8) Encourages Office Presence

In an era of remote and hybrid work cultures, where employees need incentives to return to the office, third spaces act as a major draw. These exclusive facilities encourage employees to use and enjoy them, making office presence more appealing.

Key Takeaway for Employers 

If you are an employer looking for that X-factor in your office and hoping to transition from being a good employer to a great one, investing in a well-designed “chill-out zone” or “third space” might just be a game-changer.

Transform Your Office with SmartQ

If you’re considering redesigning your office cafeteria into the coolest space in the building, SmartQ is here to help. From rebranding your cafeteria to offering food services that match the vibe of your new space, we’ve got you covered. Visit us at www.thesmarq.com to learn more!