In almost every coworking space, the real action happens in the kitchen. It’s more than just a place to grab coffee or heat up something for lunch. It’s where conversations start, ideas take shape, networks grow, and a true sense of community comes to life. And yet, this central hub often doesn’t get the attention it deserves when it comes to space planning. Too often, it’s treated as purely functional – when in fact, it holds massive potential.
Time for a kitchen makeover! With just a few thoughtful tweaks, a standard kitchen can transform into a lively social hub that’s both practical and inspiring. A space that reflects your brand’s identity – and turns regular work into enjoyable work.
Why the Kitchen Deserves More Attention
If you’ve ever experienced a busy but poorly designed coworking kitchen, you know the chaos that can unfold when functionality and design don’t align. A well-designed kitchen, on the other hand, can become a true showpiece of your space. It signals to your members that you care about the little things.
A well-executed community kitchen should:
- Be functional and easy to clean
- Accommodate different preferences (tea lovers vs. coffee geeks)
- Offer storage for both shared and personal items
- Invite people to pause for a moment – without turning into a full-on break room
- Include brand-aligned design elements that reinforce your identity
Small Changes, Big Impact
You don’t need a full renovation to make a difference. Even simple touches – like colorful tiles, painted walls, or curated kitchen accessories – can instantly brighten up the space and make it more welcoming. Open shelving with clear labels helps everyone find what they need and keeps shared use running smoothly.
Want to really level it up? Add a cozy seating area: a couple of bar stools, a quality coffee machine, and a few carefully chosen decorations can quickly turn your kitchen into a mini lounge. Don’t forget greenery – whether it’s stylish plants or fresh herbs like mint or basil, a little green goes a long way in boosting mood and bringing nature into the space.
Acoustics & Hygiene
These are often overlooked in shared kitchens, but they make an enormous difference. Too noisy, too many users, not enough structure – it doesn’t have to be that way. Simple solutions can help:
Sound-absorbing materials like fabric, wood accents, or acoustic panels reduce noise and create a calmer environment. For hygiene and ease of use, touchless faucets and soap dispensers are a modern, practical upgrade. And to keep things clean and organized, clearly posted cleaning schedules or friendly kitchen guidelines go a long way – no need for strict rules, just simple structure.
What every shared kitchen needs:
✔ Electric kettle and coffee maker (ideally with a sustainable filter system)
✔ Plenty of dishes and cutlery for multiple people
✔ Clearly labeled storage options (e.g. open shelves, labeled compartments)
✔ Cleaning supplies like dish soap, cloths, and towels
✔ Hygiene essentials such as soap dispensers and waste separation
✔ A small seating area for quick breaks
✔ Community features like a recipe wall or photo board
Bringing Your Community Spirit to Life
A great idea is to actively involve your members in shaping the kitchen space. Maybe someone brings back a jar of spices from a trip, while another takes care of the fresh herbs. This way, the kitchen becomes more than just a utility – it becomes a vibrant, lived-in part of your community. Shared food-related activities also help strengthen connections: casual breakfast or lunch events are easy to organize and create regular opportunities for interaction even for those members who are usually a bit more reserved. And how about hosting a cooking class or an international food night? These types of events aren’t just fun; they build team spirit and turn the kitchen into a true centerpiece of your coworking space.