The Oasis Day Canteen Catering Design Guide, produced by Useful Studio, outlines a pioneering vision for modern workplace catering environments in large-scale infrastructure settings. Developed as a strategic tool to inform the design and delivery of future canteen facilities, the guide places worker wellbeing and sustainability at the heart of every decision.

Framing the canteen not just as a place to eat, but as a vital daily touchpoint for rest, nourishment, and connection, the guide redefines expectations for catering in complex operational contexts. It promotes an approach rooted in dignity, comfort and inclusivity—one that recognises the power of good design to support physical and mental health.

Key design principles include flexible zoning, varied seating types, self-catering options, and interactive spaces for nutritional education and community events. These are supported by clear circulation, thoughtful acoustics, and biophilic elements, all contributing to a calming and restorative dining experience. Seasonal outdoor dining areas, cooking demos, and partnerships with local producers add vibrancy and authenticity to the food culture.

Sustainability is embedded throughout. The guide advocates for low-tech, circular materials, locally sourced food, and modular furnishings that can be adapted or reused over time. These choices not only reduce environmental impact but contribute to a lasting social and economic legacy in the surrounding community.

Intended as a replicable framework, the Oasis Day Canteen Catering Design Guide serves as a model for infrastructure projects seeking to deliver catering environments that are efficient, engaging, and human-centred. By prioritising the holistic wellbeing of workers while supporting sustainable practices, it sets a new standard for what workplace catering can achieve.