The Advantages and Disadvantages of Curved Reception Desks

Reception desks and counters are available in many different sizes, shapes, styles, finishes, and colours. The right office reception desk will help you to ensure that your business gives a smart, welcoming long lasting impression.

Want some tips on creating your ideal reception area? Check out our tips on how to create a reception desk and area fast.

In this article, we will talk about the advantages and disadvantages of curved reception desks. Curved desks are popular examples of reception furniture that can enhance your space, depending on the look and function you are going for.

Advantages of Curved Reception Desks

There are many advantages to this type of reception desk. These desks looks contemporary, stylish and professional, and can be easily recognised as the focal point of any office reception area. Curved reception desks can also be more comfortable for staff than flat reception counters. The corners specific to curved desks can ‘envelope’ a chair perfectly, and create a sense of space and privacy for staff.

A curved reception desk gives the receptionist enough space to do their job. For example, there is a curved area specifically for a computer screen, this leaves the rest of the flat space free for working on. This also ensures that visitors are greeted without a screen blocking their view.

Curved desks are much more ergonomic than their rectangular counterparts and can facilitate in maintaining good posture. The contour lets you slide closer to the desk, while the curved edges give your arms a place to rest. You won’t have to slouch or lean forward in order to rest your arms, and instead can do so easily at your sides. This, in turn, can help to significantly reduce lower back pain.

A white curved reception desk with white flooring and white desk chair surrounding, and laptop, magazine and water bottle on the reception counter

Disadvantages of Curved Reception Desks

The first thing to mention here is that curved reception counters can be bulky. They can use a lot of space – so if you don’t have enough space in your reception area, this type of shape won’t be ideal. Curved reception desks are also difficult to move once they’re in place as they’re large and often heavy.

If you have only a small space for the reception desk and need to seat two people, you will have more of a chance if the desk is straight. If it’s curved, it will bring the two operators closer together. However, if you’re looking to use reception desks to form a 90 degree angle in a corner, a curved desk could give a nicer effect.

Finally, curved reception desks tend to be a slightly more expensive, as it takes more effort to craft them.

Inside of a curved reception desk and attached storage unit filled with books and folders

Conclusion

Advantages

  • Curved reception desks are great for larger spaces
  • Creative / feature piece
  • Modular, so multiple people can use it
  • Great alternative to straight reception desks
  • More ergonomic

Disadvantages

  • Can be bulky, won’t work in a smaller spaces
  • Can be more expensive

Rounded curved desk with wood centre panels and white desktop in an all-white office reception with statue in the corner

BT Office Furniture

At BT Office Furniture we have reception counter designs to suit every budget and business type.

And it’s not just desks and counters, we host a wide range of reception furniture to suit your space. Find out more in our office reception buying guide.

Our customers source their furniture from us for a wide variety of settings and functions. These include:

  • Office reception furniture
  • Hotels & Hospitality
  • Salons
  • Surgeries & Hospitals
  • Schools & Universities
  • Spas

Find out what office reception furniture is best for your individual space.

We offer a free 2D & 3D office space planning design service to help you visualise your modern office reception area. Many contemporary styles are available, and we are happy to help with any questions you may have. To start your reception furniture revamp today just get in touch by calling us on 0800 298 7033 or email [email protected].