Corporate businesses almost always have a recreation area for their employees. These areas are often used for team-building exercises or to let off some steam during lunchtime or after work. Recent studies have shown that having a recreation area in the office can lead to higher productivity and better employee morale.
If your company doesn’t have a recreation area, now is the time to start planning one! Here are some great ideas to get you started.
1. Game Room
A game room is a great way to promote employee bonding and teamwork. It can also be used as a place to relieve stress during breaks. According to a study by the University of Michigan, playing games can improve problem-solving skills and memory function. So, not only will a game room make your employees happier, but it will also make them more productive.
Add a pool table, foosball table, air hockey table, and other classic games to make it a fun space for everyone. You can add video game consoles and virtual reality equipment for a more modern twist. Some companies even have arcade games like pinball machines.
To create a truly unique game room, you can add some non-traditional games like bowling or laser tag. You can also use these activities for team-building exercises. Make sure to have various games so everyone can find something they enjoy.
2. Sports Court
A sports court is a great way to keep employees moving and active. You can use it for various activities, including basketball, tennis, volleyball, and badminton. You can add a pool or track if you have the space. Although building a court can be costly, it’s worth the investment. Not only will your employees appreciate it, but it will also help improve their health and reduce stress levels.
Encourage employees to form teams and compete against each other in friendly games. You can also use the court for corporate events, like charity basketball tournaments. Many companies also use their sports courts for recreation leagues, a great way to promote employee camaraderie.
But make sure to maintain the court. Depending on what sport it’s used for, you need different steps to keep it functional. For example, you might need to hire tennis court cleaning services to help clean the court and repair any cracks or damage. You may also need to add lights if the court is used at night.
3. Outdoor Space
If your office is located in a warm climate, you may be lucky enough to have year-round access to an outdoor recreation area. Employees that spend time outdoors have been shown to have lower stress levels and improved mental health. So, take advantage of the weather and create an outdoor space for employees.
If you don’t have an outdoor space, you can create one by setting up a tent or canopy. Then, you can add some outdoor furniture, like picnic tables and chairs. You can also add games, like cornhole or horseshoes. You can set up a garden area with some potted plants for a more relaxing space.
If you have the budget, you can add some amenities, like a barbecue pit or an outdoor kitchen. This will encourage employees to spend more time outside, and you can also use it for corporate events. Just make sure to have someone responsible for maintaining and keeping the space clean.
4. Gym
Many corporate employees have no time to go to the gym because of their busy work schedules. But having a gym at the office can help employees stay fit and healthy. It can also be used as a place to relieve stress and improve mental health. Exercise is a great way to improve mood and cognitive function.
If you have the space, you can add some essential gym equipment, like treadmills, ellipticals, and free weights. You can also add a TV so employees can watch their favorite shows while they work out. You can add a sauna, steam room, and massage services for a complete gym.
But make sure to hire a qualified trainer to develop safe workout routines for employees. It would be best if you also had someone responsible for maintaining the equipment and keeping the gym clean. Budgeting for a gym can be tricky, but it’s worth the investment.
5. Lounge Area
A lounge area is a more relaxed space where employees can socialise and unwind. You can use it for various activities, like reading, playing games, and watching TV. You can also use it for corporate events, like happy hours and holiday parties.
Add comfortable furniture like sofas and chairs when creating a lounge area. You can add some games, like a pool table or dart board. And don’t forget to add a TV so employees can catch up on their favourite shows. It would be best if you also had a kitchen area so employees can make themselves snacks and drinks.
Creating a recreational area for your employees is a great way to improve morale and reduce stress levels. Many companies have already taken advantage of this, and you should too. There are many different types of recreational areas you can create, so choose one that best fits your needs. And make sure to maintain the space so you can use it for years to come.