How to Create Breakout Spaces That Actually Get Used
Creating a breakout space is easy. Creating one that’s actually used takes intention, planning, and a real understanding of your space and people. Breakout areas should invite energy, spark connection, and offer an escape from traditional work or learning settings. But all too often, they become forgotten corners with a few chairs and not much purpose.
So how do you design breakout spaces that people are drawn to and keep coming back to?
Here are five key strategies that make the difference:
1. Start With the “Why”
Before picking out furniture or deciding on layouts, be clear on what the space is for. Is it meant for casual collaboration? Quiet individual work? Informal meetings? Social recharging?
The best breakout spaces support specific behaviors, so identify the needs first. For example:
- In a school, students may need a low-pressure zone to work in small groups or unwind between classes.
- In an office, employees might need a quiet focus pod or a casual zone to connect across departments.
- In public areas, the goal might be accessibility and flexible use for different visitors.
Knowing the purpose helps guide every design decision that follows.
2. Choose the Right Location
A well-designed breakout space in the wrong place won’t get used. Look for:
- Natural traffic flow areas (but not so busy they become chaotic).
- Underutilized corners or open transition zones.
- Proximity to where people already gather or work.
If people have to go too far out of their way or feel like they’re interrupting others, they’ll skip it. Make it easy to access.
3. Make It Visually Inviting
Breakout spaces should feel different from the main environment, with enough visual identity to stand out but still fit the overall aesthetic. Think:
- Softer lighting
- Pops of color or greenery
- Varied textures (wood, fabric, felt)
- Comfortable, moveable furniture
If it looks cold, cluttered, or awkwardly arranged, it won’t pull people in. But if it looks warm and welcoming, it becomes an open invitation.
4. Design for Flexibility
One size doesn’t fit all. A good breakout space adapts to different people and moments. Incorporate:
- A mix of seating (lounges, stools, benches, nooks)
- Writable surfaces or mobile whiteboards
- Power access for laptops and phones
- Moveable partitions or acoustic panels for privacy when needed
Flexibility empowers people to use the space in a way that works for them, whether that’s brainstorming with a group or relaxing solo with headphones.
5. Keep It Maintained and Evolving
Even the best-designed spaces need care and refreshes. If furniture gets damaged, outlets don’t work, or the space starts collecting clutter, usage drops fast. Make sure there’s a plan to:
- Clean and maintain it regularly
- Monitor how it's being used (and not used)
- Update the space over time based on feedback
A stale space is an ignored space. Keep it fresh, and it will continue to serve your people well.
Breakout spaces are no longer a nice-to-have - they’re essential in creating dynamic environments where people feel empowered, supported, and connected. But they only work when they’re designed with real purpose, flexibility, and attention to what people need.
Need help designing a breakout space that actually gets used?
Let’s talk. Our team specializes in creating environments that support focus, collaboration, and connection - spaces that work because they’re designed with people in mind.
