Commercial Kitchen
Southampton Office Commercial Kitchen Fit Out
After deciding to invest in their workplace and make it a more welcoming environment for employees, our Southampton-based client reached out to Foursquare Workspace for support in transforming one of the areas highest on their list — the staff canteen. The goal was to rejuvenate a tired, uninspiring space and turn it into a modern, comfortable, and vibrant setting that employees would look forward to using every day.
Plan
From the outset, the client made it clear that the canteen needed to be bright, contemporary, and full of character. It had to function as both a relaxing retreat during breaks and a space that subtly reflected the company’s brand identity and personality.
Our design process began with an in-depth consultation to understand the client’s vision, operational needs, and aesthetic preferences. During this initial meeting, our designers explored how the canteen was currently used, identified problem areas, and discussed how layout and materials could improve comfort, flow, and capacity.
Drawing from these discussions, the Foursquare Workspace design team developed a series of concept visuals and 3D renders. These showcased potential colour palettes, finishes, and feature elements, allowing the client to visualise how their new canteen could look and feel. We presented design boards featuring several options, focusing on materials that would not only look striking but also withstand the rigours of a busy commercial environment.
After reviewing the proposals, the client provided feedback on their preferred colour schemes and finishes, which we used to refine the design. The final concept perfectly balanced aesthetic appeal and practicality — a space that would embody the company’s vibrant identity while remaining highly functional and easy to maintain.
Works
Once the design was finalised, our team began implementing the full fit-out solution. The installation phase was carefully planned over a four-week period to minimise disruption to daily operations. For safety and convenience, the canteen area was screened off from the rest of the workspace, allowing other areas of the building to remain in use throughout the works.
The transformation started with the installation of brand-new modern kitchen units, chosen for their sleek design and robust performance. These were paired with solid, hard-wearing white stone worktops, providing a clean, fresh contrast to the other materials in the space. The walls were finished with high-gloss tiles, enhancing the brightness of the room by reflecting natural and artificial light.
For the flooring, we introduced wood-effect vinyl tiles in the kitchen zone, adding warmth and texture, while concrete-effect vinyl was used in the dining area and around the central island. This combination defined each functional space while maintaining a cohesive overall aesthetic.
To inject colour and brand personality, we installed a striking glass splashback and a geometric glass feature partition that separates the kitchen and dining zones. The partition serves both practical and visual purposes — it helps to define the spaces while allowing light to flow freely, giving the entire canteen an open and airy atmosphere.
Adding to the visual interest, decorative MDF wall panels were installed along the grey base units, introducing subtle texture and depth. To soften the look and bring a touch of nature indoors, we incorporated planter spaces within the island, allowing for the inclusion of flowers and greenery that instantly made the space feel more welcoming and alive.
Throughout the fit out, every material and fixture was selected for durability, hygiene, and easy maintenance, ensuring the canteen would remain in excellent condition even under daily use by large teams.
Result
The finished canteen is a bright, contemporary, and inviting environment that perfectly aligns with the client’s corporate culture. The transformation from the previous, plain and uninspiring room is remarkable — what was once a dull, functional space is now a lively and uplifting hub where employees genuinely enjoy spending time.
The new design achieves a harmonious balance between form and function. The use of contrasting textures and tones creates depth and visual energy, while the mix of glass, stone, and wood-effect finishes gives the canteen a refined yet approachable aesthetic. The added greenery and decorative details contribute to a sense of warmth and wellbeing, turning everyday lunch breaks into an enjoyable experience.
Beyond the visual impact, the project demonstrates Foursquare Workspace’s commitment to thoughtful design, meticulous planning, and quality craftsmanship. Completed on time and within budget, the canteen now stands as a testament to how targeted workplace investment can significantly improve employee satisfaction and company culture.
Today, the client’s team enjoys a canteen that is as functional as it is beautiful — a true reflection of the company’s forward-thinking approach and the collaborative partnership between Foursquare Workspace and our valued client.
