Office Break Room Cabinets and Countertops: A Planning Guide
Published •5 min read
An office break room is a kitchen used by many people who don't own it. It needs a durable countertop around the coffee maker and microwave, storage that's easy to find and keep tidy, room for several people at once, and a layout that meets accessibility rules. Here's how to plan the cabinets and countertops.
Plan the Layout for Shared Use
- Separate zones: a coffee and drink station away from the sink and microwave, so lines don't block each other.
- Appliance spaces: refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave and any ice maker or water dispenser sized in the cabinet plan.
- Drawers over doors: shallow drawers for utensils and supplies are easier to keep organized than deep shelves.
- Tall storage: a pantry cabinet for bulk supplies keeps counters clear. See our pantry cabinet guide.
- Trash and recycling: pull-out bins inside a base cabinet keep cans off the floor.
Countertops That Hold Up
| Material | Good for | Watch for |
|---|---|---|
| Quartz | Coffee, tea and spills: non-porous, no sealing | Heat from appliances and pots; use trivets and mats |
| Granite | Heat and heavy use; hides crumbs and wear | Some stones need periodic sealing |
Most break rooms choose quartz or granite. See quartz vs. granite and how to clean quartz for care instructions you can post for staff.
Accessibility
Employee break rooms in commercial buildings usually follow the 2010 ADA Standards. For kitchens, that includes clearances between cabinets, at least one 30-inch-wide work surface no higher than 34 inches, a sink no higher than 34 inches with knee space, and at least half of shelf storage within reach. Your designer confirms what applies. See accessible kitchen dimensions.
Installing Around the Workday
- Agree on after-hours, weekend or phased work when you request a quote.
- Check building rules for work hours, freight elevators and documents.
- Countertops are templated after cabinets are installed, then fabricated and installed on a second visit. See the countertop installation process.
- Plan a temporary coffee and water spot while the break room is out of use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best countertop for an office break room?
Quartz and granite are the most common. Quartz resists coffee and tea stains without sealing but is sensitive to heat; granite is more heat-tolerant, though some stones need periodic sealing.
Does an office break room have to be ADA compliant?
Employee break rooms in commercial buildings usually follow the 2010 ADA Standards for kitchens and kitchenettes. Your architect or designer confirms what applies to your space.
Can Mega Solutions install a break room after hours?
Discuss timing when you request a quote. Mega Solutions installs cabinets and countertops for commercial spaces as well as homes.
Updating Your Break Room? Get a Quote
Mega Solutions installs cabinets and granite, quartz, quartzite and marble countertops for offices and businesses across metro Atlanta. Send your layout or photos for a quote.
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