Staffroom

An ageing, unwelcoming staffroom required comprehensive refurbishment to create a genuinely restorative space where staff could meaningfully disconnect from work demands and professional stressors during limited break times. The previous space felt dated and uninviting, with severely insufficient comfortable seating and poor kitchen facilities contributing to staff using breaks for administrative work rather than rest. We redesigned with quality comfortable sofas and chairs mixed with some task-oriented seating, significantly improved kitchen with modern appliances, larger counter space, and better storage layout, and created distinct zones for different break-time activities—socialising, quiet resting, individual work. Soft furnishings, warm lighting, and indoor plants contributed to a homely, welcoming atmosphere. Staff satisfaction scores increased notably following the renovation, with staff reporting they now consistently use break times for genuine rest, social connection, and mental health recovery. Staff satisfaction surveys show this space consistently rated as meeting genuine wellbeing needs, with particular appreciation for the comfortable seating and kitchen improvements. Stress-related absences have reduced measurably among teaching staff.