A well-equipped and organized shared kitchen is an essential part of any coworking space. It not only promotes productivity and collaboration but also creates a sense of community among coworkers. However, this harmony is only achieved when the kitchen is functional, efficient, and stocked with the right essentials. In this guide, we’ll explore the key items every shared office kitchen needs and how to keep it running smoothly for everyone.
Why a Thoughtful Kitchen Setup Matters in Coworking Spaces
The kitchen is often the heart of the office, a space where team members gather for breaks, meals, and socializing. A well-thought-out kitchen setup can help create a sense of order, encourage healthy eating habits, and keep clutter at bay.
In shared spaces, kitchens can quickly become chaotic without proper organization. Common issues include missing utensils, unwashed dishes, and a lack of available essentials. By creating an intentional, organized kitchen area, you can foster a more pleasant and productive environment for everyone.
Essential Items for Every Shared Office Kitchen
Spice Racks: Elevating Shared Meals
One of the most overlooked yet impactful items in a shared kitchen is a spice rack. A communal spice rack elevates everyday meals and snacks, making it easy for coworkers to add flavor to their dishes without bringing their own supplies. Stock your spice rack with essential seasonings like salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and perhaps a few extras like chili flakes or cinnamon for those who like a bit of variety.
Cutlery Tray: Keeping Things Neat
No one likes a drawer full of mismatched or loose cutlery. A dedicated cutlery tray keeps utensils neatly organized, ensuring that everyone can easily find what they need. Basic utensils like forks, knives, and spoons should be readily available, along with specialty items like teaspoons, butter knives, and even reusable straws. Keeping these essentials organized in a cutlery tray reduces clutter and makes it easier to maintain the kitchen.
Kitchen Drawers: Storing It All Away
A well-organized kitchen relies heavily on proper storage solutions. Investing in high-quality kitchen drawers allows you to store all the extras that don’t belong on the countertop. These drawers can hold extra utensils, napkins, small kitchen tools like scissors and can openers, or even reusable food containers. With proper storage, the shared kitchen stays tidy, and finding what you need becomes effortless.
Additional Items to Make the Kitchen Stand Out
Reusable Containers and Storage Jars: For a Sustainable Space
Incorporating reusable containers and storage jars into your shared kitchen setup promotes sustainability and reduces waste. These containers can be used for communal snacks, coffee beans, or tea bags, ensuring that items are stored neatly and stay fresh. Encouraging the use of reusable storage helps keep the kitchen organized and fosters a more eco-conscious workspace.
Coffee Machine or Kettle: The Heart of the Office Kitchen
No office kitchen is complete without a coffee machine or kettle. These are must-haves for any coworking space, providing the caffeine fix needed to keep everyone going throughout the day. A good coffee machine boosts morale and offers a cozy space for people to connect and unwind during breaks. For non-coffee drinkers, a reliable kettle allows for tea and other hot drinks, making it an essential part of the office kitchen setup.
Paper Towels or Reusable Cloths: Maintaining Cleanliness
Maintaining a clean kitchen is everyone’s responsibility in a shared space. Stocking the kitchen with paper towels or reusable cloths encourages coworkers to clean up after themselves, wiping down counters and washing their dishes promptly. Keeping cleaning supplies visible and accessible makes it easier for everyone to contribute to the kitchen’s upkeep.
Best Practices for Shared Kitchen Etiquette
While having a well-stocked kitchen is crucial, it’s equally important to encourage proper kitchen etiquette. Encourage the office community to label their food, wash dishes promptly, and respect others’ space in the fridge and on countertops. Regular cleanups and abiding by kitchen rules help ensure the space remains pleasant and usable for everyone.
Conclusion
A well-stocked, thoughtfully organized kitchen plays a vital role in enhancing the coworking experience. From communal spice racks to organized cutlery trays and efficient kitchen drawers, investing in these small details makes a significant difference in creating a harmonious, functional shared space. By focusing on both the essentials and proper kitchen etiquette, you can ensure that your coworking kitchen remains a hub of collaboration, productivity, and community.
For more organizational tools and high-quality kitchen essentials, explore kitchen drawers and other storage solutions to transform your shared office kitchen today!
Photo credits: eOffice