In the fast-paced and demanding environment of healthcare facilities, staff members require spaces where they can take a break, recharge, and rejuvenate. Staff lounges and respite areas play a vital role in supporting the well-being and morale of healthcare professionals. Thoughtfully selected furniture in these areas can create an inviting and comfortable space that enables staff to unwind and find solace during their hectic schedules.
Creating Spaces That Heal is an ongoing series that spotlights trending furniture and interior design in healthcare spaces. In this installment, explore a variety of furniture options that can work together to create.
Comfortable Seating Options
Offering a variety of comfortable seating options is a key element in promoting relaxation and rejuvenation in respite areas. Consider incorporating ergonomic chairs, plush sofas, and recliners or sleeper chairs to allow staff members the choice of comfort based on their respite needs.
Carolina, an OFS company, is a leading manufacturer of furnishings for healthcare facilities and provides furniture solutions that create well-designed, supportive environments for caregivers. The Elide stool by Carolina is an excellent option for café spaces in staff lounges, providing a classic, timeless design with a plush, upholstered seat and back. The finish and fabric on these stools can be customized to fit the aesthetic of any facility.
Carolina’s Knack recliner features an ergonomic design with multiple finish and feature options to further enhance its function and aesthetic. With a steel frame and three-position reclining mechanism, Knack provides a durable and incredibly comfortable seating solution for staff members looking for a more relaxing stay in a respite area.
The Coronado sleepover chair by Carolina was designed for continuous use. Built with a steel frame beneath thick upholstered cushions, Coronado provides supportive comfort when sitting and laying. This convertible chair is perfect in lounges for staff members with long-term stays or demanding shifts. By providing comfortable seating that meets a variety of relaxation needs, lounges and respite areas become beacons of support during staff breaks.
Functional Surfaces
Staff lounges and respite areas should be versatile and function to accommodate the diverse needs of healthcare professionals. Besides comfortable seating, the abundance of table surfaces is important to consider in areas where staff may be eating meals, using personal items, and performing light work-related tasks
Carolina’s Ninteen20 is a classic table design that was built with hospitality and functionality in mind. Available in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and materials, this table can be designed to fit the aesthetic of any healthcare facility. Nineteen20 is a suitable option for staff lounges as it provides a simple and durable surface for a variety of uses.
The Kosa table by Carolina features a contemporary style with a linear wire rod base and floating top illusion, ideal for light use. This occasional table can be personalized from a selection of leg finishes and table surface materials, making it compatible with any healthcare lounge space.
Table surfaces that can be reconfigured elevate a respite area from a static space to a highly functional environment. The Hairpin Stacking Table by Knoll provides a reliable surface that can be moved, stacked, and stored as needed. This table boasts the modern aesthetic that Knoll is known for, while offering customization in leg finish and surface material. Small, reconfigurable tables such as the Hairpin, support staff members as they interact with and use respite areas.
Privacy Zones
While social interaction is important, staff lounges and respite areas should also include spaces that offer privacy and tranquility. Incorporate quiet zones with comfortable seating and partitions to create secluded retreats where staff members can enjoy moments of solitude, meditation, or personal reflection. These spaces allow for mental and emotional rejuvenation, reducing stress levels and promoting overall wellbeing.
Herman Miller’s Striad High-Back Sofa offers subtle privacy in open lounge areas. Striad is a two-seat, high-back sofa with a contemporary, curved design that creates an airy aesthetic while delineating space. With a deep seat and thick cushions, this sofa provides users with an incredibly comfortable, supportive, and private spot to rest and rejuvenate.
The Pullman Booth by Herman Miller provides a higher level of privacy in lounge and respite areas. This booth seating solution offers facing 2- or 3-seat benches with high backs and a worksurface between them to create an oasis of quiet, heads-down space. The Pullman Booth is a flexible solution in healthcare lounges as it supports staff privacy or collaboration as needed.
Accessible Amenities
Consider incorporating key amenities within staff lounges and respite areas to enhance convenience and promote staff satisfaction. These may include facilities such as kitchenettes or coffee bars, where staff members can access refreshments and snacks. Additionally, providing access to charging stations, lockers, or storage spaces allows staff to secure their belongings and recharge their devices, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience.
The Mile Marker casework line by Carolina provides supportive solutions throughout a multitude of healthcare applications. In a healthcare lounge or respite area, consider using a kitchenette typical with space for a microwave, refrigerator, and built-in sink. Mile Marker is customizable from top to bottom, designed using components or “building blocks” to create a casework solution that meets any and all lounge amenity needs.
Carolina’s Intermix Storage line features various components that accommodate the unique needs of healthcare staff members, making them comfortable and productive. The Intermix Storage locker system can be personalized from a selection of door pulls and finishes, and can be equipped with keyed deadbolts, keyless entry pads, or a stealth lock option to create the ultimate storage solution for any healthcare lounge.
Put It All Together
Staff lounges and respite areas are vital spaces providing healthcare professionals with much-needed respite during their demanding schedules. By incorporating thoughtful and functional furniture, healthcare facilities can create environments that prioritize the wellbeing and relaxation of staff members. These inviting spaces foster a positive atmosphere, reduce stress levels, and contribute to staff satisfaction and productivity.
Investing in staff lounges and respite areas that support and reflect the value of healthcare professionals’ wellbeing provides staff with the necessary retreats to recharge and find balance amidst their demanding roles. Understanding staff needs is the first step in developing impactful lounge and respite areas. Contact an Expert at Work to learn about space use research and discover how you can create the ultimate respite oasis for healthcare staff.