How to Maximise Space in Conference & Meeting Rooms
Knowing how to set up a meeting room can be a hugely important step for running a successful business. It’s no secret that a well-organised and properly equipped space makes all the difference when it comes to clear and open discussion. However, achieving this can be tricky when you only have limited space to begin with.
This leads to a common question: how can you maximise space in a conference or meeting room? In this blog, we’re going to talk about some practical tips when it comes to meeting room furniture to help you make the most of your space.
Design & Layout
How a meeting room is set up can significantly affect how people interact and engage with each other. Just remember, the best meeting room layout encourages teamwork, reduces distractions, and ensures that everyone can share their ideas fairly.
There are many options that you could explore regarding how to set up a meeting room or
conference room. Here are a few ideas to consider:
Alternative Table Shapes
Many conference rooms are centered around a large table. Although this lets workers see each other during meetings, it can create dead space in the center of the room. Therefore, you might want to consider a U-shaped conference room as an alternative. With this arrangement you can have two long tables alongside the sides of your room with a short joining table at one end.
This leaves empty space in the middle of the room which can be used as a storage location. You can also place a screen at the open end, assisting employees when they make presentations.
Room Zoning
Another good option to consider for your meeting room layout is room zoning. Divide the room into different zones for different activities, such as a main meeting area, breakout spaces, and a tech zone. Flexible dividers or partitions can be a great way to create temporary smaller spaces within a larger room.
Thoughful Seating
Arrange your meeting room seating and chairs to maximise space usage. For example, circular or semi-circular seating can often accommodate more people than traditional linear setups.
Multifunctional Conference Room Furniture
In order to maximise your meeting room, you should choose conference room furniture that serves multiple purposes. Meeting tables with storage underneath and chairs that can be stacked and stored away when not in use are both great options for creating a multifunctional space.
Similarly, you could opt for modular tables and chairs that can be easily rearranged to fit different meeting room setups. For example, your meeting room furniture could be rearranged as a boardroom, in a U-shape, a classroom, or in a theatre style. Utilise foldable tables and chairs that can be easily stored when not in use, freeing up space for other activities.
Technology Integration
Another good way to maximise space in your meeting room is with the use of integrated technology. To achieve this, equip your meeting room with technology that integrates seamlessly into the space, such as with built-in projectors, speakers, and screens that do not occupy floor space. Office media walls and cabinets are a great way to achieve this blend of technology and functionality.
Remember that the best meeting room layout will have plenty of electrical outlets. There should be at least one as a minimum at the front of the room, allowing the presenter to connect their laptop and other devices.
Smart Technology
Smart technology can also help to reduce the clutter created by electronics and cables.
Smartboards let you draw on touchscreens as well as save notes and documents on a cloud
drive. These can also be hung on the wall or within a media unit, freeing up space on the floor. This means they don’t need to be stored and you can use them whenever you want.
Go Wireless
Finally, minimise cables and wires by using wireless solutions for connectivity, reducing clutter and improving flexibility.
Wireless presentation equipment, including wireless microphones and modules, is readily available. You can store these in a box that you leave at the front of the room, making it easy for presenters to access them when needed.
Storage Solutions
The demand for storage space and space management inside the office has increased dramatically in recent times. With that in mind, try to prioritise vertical space when choosing your meeting roomn furniture, making particular use of your walls.
You could also add stackable containers as well as under-the-table storage. Under-the-table storage is a good solution if you can’t change the core features of your meeting room layout. You can also
place rolling pedestals or desks underneath your tables. Another great solution is built-in storage. Built-in storage can be installed in almost any way possible to save office space at an affordable price.
BT Office Furniture
By implementing some of these tips, you can make your conference and meeting rooms more functional, efficient, and comfortable. At BT Office, we offer a specialist office space planning service to create your ideal working environment with the space you have. Our expert in-house designers and fitters are on hand throughout the entire process. Get in touch today and see what BT Office can do for you.
Get in touch today and explore our full range of office storage solutions online. You can also reach us by emailing [email protected] or by calling 0800 298 7033