What Are In-Between Spaces in Offices?

When you picture a workspace, it’s easy to imagine cubicles, some offices, and maybe a small breakroom off to the side. But what about all the intervening space between the main locations? These “in-between spaces” are becoming increasingly relevant in modern workplaces. With the right design attitude, these can be locations where quick conversations can spark new ideas, employees can recharge their batteries, and company culture starts to take shape. 

Companies are increasingly relying on what used to be empty space and transforming it into locations where productivity and well-being are enhanced. In this post, we’ll explore why the in-between space is so important.

In-Between Spaces:

• What Are In-Between Spaces?
• Why These In-Between Spaces Matter in Modern Offices
• Design Elements of Effective In-Between Spaces
• How Workspace Helps Create In-Between Spaces

In-between spaces often start as under-utilized zones around the office. They include hallway nooks, the space outside conference rooms, vacant corners, and other areas that people pass through but rarely use for anything. There might be a couple of chairs or a plant in these areas, just to liven them up a little. Left alone, these spaces don’t add much value. 

Companies are getting smarter about these areas by treating them as purposeful micro-environments. With the right mix of features, in-between spaces can be transformed into valuable real estate inside the workplace. They can become impromptu huddle spaces or spots where employees can decompress between meetings. 

Encourage Spontaneity

Some of the best ideas don’t happen in scheduled meetings. They happen in passing. Expertly designed in-between spaces give your employees a natural place to pause and share some quick spots. Sometimes that’s exactly what they need for a burst of inspiration. These casual encounters can spark collaboration that wouldn’t surface in a formal setting.

Support Well-being

In-between spaces can provide a great spot for employees to take their necessary breaks. When they need to grab a coffee or step away from their desks, these inviting spaces are just the place for a quick reset. Small breaks throughout the day help relieve stress and support overall well-being. 

Boost Productivity

Not every task requires a full meeting room or workstation. In-between spaces are suitable for short bursts of focused work or when an employee needs to prep for a presentation. By offering these options, companies make it easier for their employees to stay productive throughout the day.

Offer Flexibility

Work styles vary, and organizations that adapt to this concept can better utilize their entire workforce. In-between spaces can shift from solo to small group focus zones in minutes. Using modular furniture and smart design, they give employees the freedom to choose how they work best. 

Designing in-between spaces is about turning overlooked square footage into purposeful environments, which can be open or closed. Placement is important. Situating these in the intervening space between high-traffic zones ensures that they’re naturally used, rather than ignored.

Furniture should invite movement and variety. Instead of static chairs and tables, think of pieces that can be easily rearranged or that encourage more relaxed postures. This variety suggests that the space is intended for short, flexible use.