Why the Office Tea Point is so important
In the bustling world of business, where productivity and innovation reign supreme, there’s a silent hero often overlooked in the corporate landscape: the humble tea point. Yesterday was National Tea Day, hailed as ‘The Most British Day of The Year’ by its organisers. An opportunity for us to think about why British people are so tightly associated with tea by the rest of the world. In the UK, we get through 61 billion tea bags a year – enough to cover 31,000 football pitches. In recognition of this event, we thought we would explore the value of the Tea Point in the workplace. It’s time to raise our cups and look into why the office tea point is a crucial component of the modern office and how you can make it work best for your organisation.
Tradition
While coffee has surged in popularity in recent years, fueled by artisanal cafes and trendy espresso bars, tea remains deeply ingrained in the fabric of British society. It’s not just a beverage; it’s a ritual, a moment of respite amidst the chaos of the workday. It’s not merely about caffeine consumption; it’s about camaraderie, tradition, and comfort. Often one of our first interactions with a client or colleague in the UK will be based around offering a cup of tea – shortly followed by a series of questions about how you would like the drink to be made. We have our language around tea, ‘builder’s tea’ being used to describe a very strong, dark cup with little milk and we are all familiar with the terms ‘cuppa’ and ‘brew’. When we learn that someone is about to pop in we’ll often follow up with ‘I’ll put the kettle on.’
Compliance
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 state that staff are entitled to rest and eating facilities. Even in the most humble working areas, being able to make a cup of tea is considered a bare minimum requirement. Recognizing the cultural significance of tea in the workplace, most companies invest in dedicated spaces known as tea points. These areas serve as more than just corners for brewing beverages; they’re hubs of collaboration, relaxation, and well-being. A tea point can be squeezed into a small spot if space is at a premium or take the shape of an elaborate full-blown kitchen area.
Morale and Productivity
A well-designed tea point encourages employees to take regular breaks, promoting better mental health and productivity. It’s a sanctuary where individuals can recharge and return to work refreshed and refocused. Tea breaks provide invaluable opportunities for colleagues to connect on a personal level, strengthening bonds and enhancing teamwork. In a world dominated by emails and Zoom calls, face-to-face interactions over a cup of tea can make all the difference. Tea breaks are more than just refueling; they’re opportunities for socializing, networking, and fostering a sense of community among colleagues. Even in open-plan offices you will find the chattiest spots are somewhere near the kettle. The sound of hot water being poured into a mug appears to have stress-relieving properties and subconsciously invites you to take a mental break from your work.
Design Considerations
Creating an inviting and functional tea point requires careful consideration of various factors, from practical finishes to appliance options. There are many essential elements to ponder.
Practical Finishes: Opt for durable materials that can withstand heavy usage and frequent cleaning. Stainless steel countertops, laminate cabinets, and non-slip flooring are practical choices for a bustling tea point.
Hot Water Tap Installation: A hot water tap eliminates the need for kettle juggling and ensures a constant supply of piping hot water for tea enthusiasts. It’s a convenient addition that streamlines the brewing process and reduces wait times.
Storage Solutions: Ample storage is essential for keeping tea, coffee, and other essentials organized and accessible. Consider installing cabinets, shelves, and drawers to accommodate mugs, tea bags, sugar and spoons.
Appliance Options: A well-equipped tea point may feature not only kettles and coffee machines but also microwaves, fridges, and drink fridges for storing perishables and refreshments.
Comfortable Seating: Make the tea point inviting with comfortable seating options where employees can relax and unwind. Whether it’s a cozy corner with plush armchairs or bar stools at a communal counter, prioritize comfort and functionality.
Natural Light and Greenery: Incorporate elements of nature into the design to create a calming and rejuvenating atmosphere. Where possible, position the tea point near to a source of natural light. Large windows, potted plants, and greenery can enhance the ambiance and promote a sense of well-being.
Accessibility and Inclusivity: Ensure that the tea point is easily accessible to all employees, including those with mobility challenges. Designating a wheelchair-accessible area and providing adjustable-height countertops demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity. When thinking about storage options make sure that supplies can be reached by colleagues in a wheelchair.
Personalization and Branding: Infuse the tea point with elements of company culture and branding to create a sense of belonging. Consider incorporating corporate colors, logos, and graphics into the design to reinforce company values.
By embracing tea culture and investing in dedicated spaces like tea points, companies can foster a more inclusive, collaborative, and productive work environment. From practical considerations like durable finishes and storage solutions to thoughtful touches like comfortable seating and greenery, designing the perfect tea point requires attention to detail and a deep understanding of employee needs. So, as we raise our cups in celebration of National Tea Day, let’s toast to the power of tea in shaping workplace culture and brewing success in businesses across the UK.
Who We Are
We are a team of highly skilled individuals who are passionate about designing and building better working environments in offices, schools and warehouses. We are based in Sussex and work throughout London and the South.
We have a team of designers, estimators and project managers who have the capability with the help of tried and tested sub contractors to run your fit-out or refurbishment project no matter the scale. In an industry of vast faceless corporations we can offer you a personal bespoke service from the initial design stages through building works to completion. We strive to give our customers a design led, stress free, reliable and cost effective service, that’s why a large percentage of our business is made up of happy returning clients.
