Lounge-style lobbies are increasingly being recognized as essential elements in modern office design, particularly with creative and small businesses. These areas not only set a welcoming tone for guests but also play a crucial role in shaping the office culture and promoting collaboration among employees.
We asked NBF expert, Jody Ebbers (JE), Senior Category Manager, to talk about the benefits of lounge-style lobbies and get her advice on design considerations for these spaces. Watch the video below to learn more.
What Are the Benefits of Lounge-Style Lobbies?
Interviewer: Jody, can you explain why it's beneficial to have lounge spaces in your lobby?
JE: Well, it's beneficial to have lounge spaces in the lobby because first impressions matter. It's really about comfort and making people feel comfortable when they come into the space. It's also a visual representation of your company, of the culture, and it's also not just for visitors – it's for the staff as well.
3 Tips for Adding Lounge Spaces Into Your Lobby
Interviewer: When designing [lounge-style lobbies], what are some key elements that you should consider?
JE: So, there are three key elements [to consider when designing lounge-style lobbies]: layout, comfort and quality.
Interviewer: Let's talk about layout first. Why is it important to consider the layout of the furniture, and how do you incorporate the proper layout into the space?
JE: It's really important [to consider] how the furniture is placed [in the space]. [It should be] designed or laid out so that you can have easy conversation with others, but also easy access to power so that you can feel very comfortable plugging in. You're not having to climb behind the furniture to find an outlet. This way you can easily plug in and go right to work or relax.
Interviewer: Well, speaking of relaxing, you mentioned comfort. And why is it important to think about comfort when you're selecting furniture for these spaces?
JE: Comfort kind of seems obvious, but it really is [a key design consideration]. I mean, it comes down to: Is [the space] warm? Is it inviting? Is it a place that you want to be? And it not only has to look comfortable, but it also has to feel comfortable.
Interviewer: And finally, let’s talk quality. Why is it important to consider quality when you're selecting furniture for these spaces?
JE: Well, [lobbies] see a large amount of traffic. So if you're not making the initial investment in high-quality materials right from the start, it will quickly show wear and tear. And then that shows that you're not invested in that lounge space.
Building the Business Case for Lounge-style Lobbies
Interviewer: All right, Jody, as a final takeaway, what would you say to someone that's hesitant to incorporate a lounge-style space into their lobby?
JE: Well, it's that lounge space isn't just for looks. It's also a functional space. It's just showing that you care about how people feel in your space from the moment they walk in the door.
Get Started With Design Inspiration Today
By creating comfortable and stylish spaces where employees and visitors can relax, converse and connect, businesses can project a culture of openness, innovation and teamwork. This approach helps to foster a positive first impression and ongoing sense of community within the workplace. Get started today with lounge design inspiration.