Rethinking Office Pantry Design for Modern Workspaces
December 2, 2024
Mrinmoy Dey
Whether envisioned as a sleek, high-tech coffee bar or a cosy, biophilic-inspired retreat, a thoughtfully designed pantry can significantly elevate the office environment, contributing to employee satisfaction and enhancing the overall workplace experience.
Office pantries have evolved far beyond their traditional role as functional coffee corners hidden in the back of the workplace. Today, they are pivotal in office design, influencing company culture, employee engagement, and overall productivity. No longer just a spot for quick coffee breaks, the modern office pantry has transformed into a dynamic social hub, an informal meeting ground where colleagues connect, ideate, and recharge. As organisations redefine workspaces in the post-pandemic era, the office pantry has emerged as a vital component that integrates functionality, wellness, and collaboration into everyday work.
Designing an office pantry today goes beyond the primary selection of cabinetry and countertops; it’s about crafting an experiential space that reflects the company’s ethos and enhances employee well-being. A well-conceived pantry design supports healthy lifestyle choices and fosters a welcoming, inclusive environment that promotes interaction and creativity. Features such as sleek coffee bars, adaptable seating arrangements, and integrated technology are becoming standard, with each element contributing to a thoughtfully curated space that elevates the overall office experience.
“Lighting temperature in the cafe, cafeterias and collaborative spaces can be warmer (3000k-4000k) than the workspaces. Collaborative areas are normally designed as an extension of the workspace, however, the cafeteria needs to be separate due to increased traffic, food smell etc.”
Anil Salian
Principal Architect
Anil Salian & Associates
Dedicated Pantry vs Multifunctional Space
Investing in a well-designed office pantry offers numerous advantages that can significantly enhance workplace dynamics and employee satisfaction. One of the primary benefits is improved employee well-being. A dedicated pantry space provides a comfortable retreat where employees can take breaks, socialise, and recharge, ultimately reducing stress and increasing productivity.
Anil Salian, Principal Architect, Anil Salian & Associates shares, “Individual clients have the option of either providing their facility within their premises or asking their employees to use the common facilities. Most of our clients prefer to have their own cafeterias. If the clients decide not to have a full-fledged cafeteria, then we provide space to eat for employees who get their home-cooked food (tiffins or dabbas). Microwave ovens, tiffin wash sinks and a handwashing area along with water coolers and tea/coffee vending machines are provided. We also provide a tuck shop where they can buy snacks and soft drinks.”
He further adds that such spaces are also designed to double up as collaborative workspaces or recreational spaces during non-dining hours. “Projection and Audiovisual facilities are provided for the space to be converted for ‘town halls’ when they have large events to accommodate all the employees together.”
While the pantry can serve as a social hub, it can also draw employees away from their work, particularly if it becomes a popular gathering place. Organisations can make informed decisions that align with their goals by understanding the advantages and disadvantages of incorporating an office pantry.
Vipul Tapke, CEO and Chief Architect, JTCPL Designs states, “A dedicated pantry provides employees with convenient access to snacks, coffee, and meals, typically equipped with essentials such as a refrigerator, microwave, coffee machine, and ample storage for utensils and non-perishable items. This setup enhances convenience, allowing employees to quickly grab refreshments without needing to leave the floor or building. It also improves efficiency by saving time and boosting productivity, as basic needs can be met with minimal waiting. Additionally, the pantry serves as a natural focal point for brief, informal interactions, fostering a sense of community and connection within the workplace.”
Kshitij Limaye, Co-Founder and Managing Director, KBNK Design Build says, “In my opinion, a dedicated café or pantry is highly recommended since the same can be designed to suit the unique culture of an end-user. However, the spaces designed for the primary purpose of a cafeteria need to be multi-functional or spaces that can be morphed. This is especially important considering that real estate is at a premium, and spaces that may be vacant/unused at times are not a prudent idea.”
The spaces designed for the primary purpose of a cafeteria need to be multi-functional or spaces that can be morphed. Photo Courtesy: JTCPL Designs
Optimising Office Pantry: Key Considerations
Designing an efficient and inviting office pantry begins with meticulous planning and layout strategies that harmonise aesthetics with functionality. This is achieved by defining distinct zones tailored to various activities: preparation areas for coffee and snacks, dedicated storage sections for food and utensils, and versatile seating spaces for dining, socialising, or informal meetings. The layout prioritises efficient circulation, ensuring movement flows naturally while minimising congestion.
Salian opines, “The consideration for planning an office cafeteria for a large office over different floors would be to locate the cafeteria on the most appropriate floor on which it is convenient for all employees to access without disturbing office activities. Access to a service elevator, plumbing shafts and ventilation shafts for exhaust also have to be considered for designing the services for the cafeteria. Adequate serving, preparation, washing, and cold and dry storage capacities have to be planned based on the occupancy of the cafeteria. The shift ratio is normally 1:4 or 1:5.”
Accessibility is pivotal in office pantry design. It ensures that frequently used items and appliances are easily reachable to enhance user convenience. Practical storage solutions are fundamental to a well-designed office pantry, maintaining organisation, minimising clutter, and improving the overall aesthetic appeal.
“When planning an office cafeteria, key considerations include seating capacity concerning the total office headcount. Typically, the seating capacity ranges between 20% to 25% of the total headcount, which translates to operating the cafeteria in 4 to 5 shifts. Another critical factor is determining whether the cafeteria will have a cooking, serving, or electronic kitchen, as each scenario has distinct space and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) requirements, including electrical provisions, HVAC, and public health engineering (PHE) systems. For full-fledged or semi-cooking kitchens, additional considerations include the need for service or dumb elevators, service corridors, storage (including cold storage), separate vegetarian and non-vegetarian kitchens, servery areas, and handwashing or dishwashing stations,” explains Limaye.
Tapke adds, “Balancing space constraints with the need for multiple appliances, storage solutions, and appropriate seating capacity involves strategic planning and creative design solutions. Ensure the pantry layout allows easy access to essential appliances like refrigerators, microwaves, coffee machines, and water dispensers. Place frequently used items within easy reach to minimise congestion and streamline traffic flow. Incorporate sufficient countertop space for food preparation and temporary storage of personal items. Utilise vertical space with shelving units and cabinets to store non-perishable items, utensils, and cleaning supplies.”
“The cafeteria should have ample lighting. Lighting can mainly be in the form of natural lighting with an excess of light coming in from outdoors. This not only makes the space well-ventilated but also makes the space refreshing and spacious.”
Kshitij Limaye
Co-Founder and Managing Director
KBNK Design Build
Crafting the Ideal Office Pantry: How Colour Palette, Theme, and Materials Set the Mood?
The selection of a cohesive colour palette, thematic elements, and materials is essential in shaping the ambience of an office pantry. This transformation elevates the pantry from a purely functional area to a vibrant and welcoming environment that embodies the company’s brand and culture. Materials serve as the foundation of effective pantry design, significantly impacting both aesthetic appeal and the longevity of the space. Given the high-traffic nature of office pantries, selecting materials that blend style with durability is imperative.
Limaye states, “Natural light is a powerful mood booster and can significantly enhance the overall ambience. Maximise window space and consider skylights if possible. Opt for light-coloured walls and furniture to create a sense of openness.”
He further asserts that the visual appeal of a cafeteria significantly influences the employee experience. “To create a welcoming environment, consider using warm and inviting colours like light yellows, greens, or blues, which help foster a relaxed atmosphere. Adding pops of colour through accent walls or furniture can inject personality into the space. Incorporating natural elements such as plants, wood, or stone can strengthen the connection to nature, promoting well-being. Additionally, displaying artwork, photography, or murals that reflect company culture or local aesthetics can add a personalised touch and enhance the overall ambience.”
Displaying artwork, photography, or murals that reflect company culture or local aesthetics can add a personalised touch and enhance the overall ambience. Photo Courtesy: JTCPL Designs
If the goal is to reinforce the company’s culture and brand identity, the pantry can be designed to reflect these elements. This approach creates a cohesive environment where the pantry feels like a natural office extension. “In the café at Everstone Capital, the pantry seamlessly integrates with the rest of the office. There are no partitions or walls, promoting an open and collaborative atmosphere. The design reflects the company's values of transparency and teamwork, using colours and materials that align with the overall brand aesthetic,” explains Tapke citing an example for his projects.
Alternatively, the pantry can be designed as a visual and behavioural relief space, offering employees a break from their regular work environment. This approach can foster relaxation and informal collaboration, providing a refreshing change of scenery. “In a high-stress industry like finance or technology, the pantry might feature energetic colours mixed with turf greens, comfortable seating and playful design elements. As we see in the Axis Bank project, this creates a relaxing retreat where employees can unwind and recharge,” shares Tapke.
Talking about the layout combinations, Salian shares, “The dry pantry has a counter with a tea coffee and water dispenser and is located in collaboration or breakout areas. Dry pantries have a Corian or Agglomerated marble or Italian Marble top with laminate or PU paint on the shutters below. The wet pantry is generally located close to the toilets and service areas where water supply and drain points are available. It comprises water coolers, tea/coffee dispensers, a sink, a refrigerator and some storage. Wet pantries have a vitrified tile floor and dado with a granite top and stainless-steel sink.”
“ Ventilation is equally important. Mechanical ventilation, including exhaust fans or range hoods, helps remove food odours, smoke, and moisture, especially in wet pantries. When possible, natural ventilation through windows or vents allows fresh air circulation.”
Vipul Tapke
CEO and Chief Architect
JTCPL Designs
Lighting and Ventilation
Lighting and ventilation are essential elements in the design of a functional and welcoming office pantry. Effective lighting enhances visibility while also pivotally establishing the mood and overall ambience of the space. Employing a layered approach to lighting allows for versatility, incorporating ambient lighting for general illumination, task lighting for specific work areas, and accent lighting to highlight design features or create focal points.
“Lighting temperature in the cafe, cafeterias and collaborative spaces can be warmer (3000k-4000k) than the workspaces. Collaborative areas are normally designed as an extension of the workspace, however, the cafeteria needs to be separate due to increased traffic, food smell etc,” states Salian.
Limaye asserts, “Proper ventilation is critical. There must be segregation in the HVAC System to avoid mixing food smells and motorised fire dampers to shut down the HVAC system in case of an alarm. The cafeteria should have ample lighting. Lighting can mainly be in the form of natural lighting with an excess of light coming in from outdoors. This not only makes the space well-ventilated but also makes the space refreshing and spacious. Lighting can also be in the form of ambient lighting, accent lighting and decorative lighting.”
Tapke adds, “Task lighting, such as under-cabinet lights or pendant lights, provides bright, focused illumination for food preparation and cleaning areas. Ambient lighting, through ceiling-mounted fixtures or recessed lights, creates a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, while accent lighting like LED strips or wall sconces adds aesthetic appeal. Ventilation is equally important. Mechanical ventilation, including exhaust fans or range hoods, helps remove food odours, smoke, and moisture, especially in wet pantries. When possible, natural ventilation through windows or vents allows fresh air circulation and natural light, improving the overall environment.”
Adequate ventilation is critical in maintaining air quality and comfort, especially in spaces that accommodate food preparation. Integrating features such as exhaust fans and operable windows can promote airflow and prevent lingering odours, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere. By thoughtfully addressing lighting and ventilation, architects and designers craft a pantry that meets practical needs and enhances the overall employee experience.
Balancing space constraints with the need for multiple appliances, storage solutions, and appropriate seating capacity involves strategic planning and creative design solutions. Photo Courtesy: JTCPL Designs
In A Nutshell
From adaptable layouts and efficient storage solutions to the strategic use of materials and lighting, every element of the contemporary office pantry is crafted to optimise both functionality and aesthetic appeal. By fostering interaction and offering a comfortable environment, the modern office pantry plays a crucial role in promoting workplace culture and enhancing overall productivity.
However, the success of an office pantry hinges on achieving the right balance between aesthetics and practicality. Addressing key factors such as effective ventilation, appropriate lighting, and ease of maintenance ensures that the pantry remains a functional, comfortable, and inviting space. Whether envisioned as a sleek, high-tech coffee bar or a cosy, biophilic-inspired retreat, a thoughtfully designed pantry can significantly elevate the office environment, contributing to employee satisfaction and enhancing the overall workplace experience.
As organisations increasingly prioritise employee well-being and adapt to evolving workplace trends, the office pantry is set to become an even more integral part of the workplace ecosystem. By investing in thoughtful pantry design, businesses can cultivate a space that not only caters to the daily needs of employees but also fosters a sense of community, enhances morale, and reinforces the company's brand identity and culture. A well-designed pantry becomes more than a functional amenity, it evolves into a strategic asset that supports both employee engagement and organisational success.
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