What Makes a Good Conference Table?

When it comes to designing the perfect meeting space for your workplace, choosing the right conference table can make all the difference. A well-selected table isn’t just a place to sit, it plays a key role in influencing how people collaborate and communicate.

With many types of meeting tables available, understanding their advantages can help you choose the right fit for your office. In this blog, we will take a look at popular styles and compare how each one can help create the perfect meeting room, based on functionality, space considerations, and aesthetic preferences.

Round Conference Tables for Communication

The way you and your team typically communicate is an important factor when choosing a conference table; are your meetings more focused on brainstorming and collaboration, or are they more formal, with clear roles and decisions?

Round Meeting Room Tables: Perfect for Collaboration

Round meeting room tables are known for encouraging open communication and collaboration which make them a great choice for meetings where everyone pitches in and shares ideas. Without any sharp corners or a head of the table, round conference room tables allow everyone to feel equal, prompting good teamwork and collective decision-making. So, if your meetings tend to be less formal, with lots of back-and-forth ideas and brainstorming, a round office table is the ideal solution.

These conference tables offer greater flexibility in terms of seating arrangements, with the ability to be easily reconfigured to accommodate different group sizes and meeting formats. In addition, they are great options for smaller meeting rooms, with their circular shape allowing for a more efficient use of available space, accommodating more participants while minimising the feeling of overcrowding. Round meeting tables can also integrate with technology features such as power outlets and USB ports to seamlessly allow participants to showcase presentations during a meeting, further enhancing collaboration.

Square Meeting Room Tables: for Formal Settings

Looking for something better suited to more formal, structured meetings? Square meeting room tables may be the best fit for you. Their sharp edges naturally create clear distinctions between seats which can encourage a more formal tone. The equal distribution of space further ensures everyone feels included, whilst the overall feel remains focused and professional. Square meeting room tables are ideal for board meetings, presentations, or any environment where clear roles, decisions and responsibilities need to be established.

Another key advantage of square conference tables is their adaptability. These types of meeting table can often be modular, allowing them to be combined with other square office tables to form larger configurations (e.g., rectangular or U-shaped arrangements). Whether you are holding a 4-person or 20-person meeting, square meeting room tables can provide the necessary seating space, making them an attractive option for many companies.

Conference Tables: Space and Layout Considerations

Barrel Meeting Room Tables: Great for Long Rooms

If your conference room is long and narrow, a barrel-shaped conference table is an excellent choice. This type of meeting room table invites collaboration whilst utilising more unique office spaces where the ability to use more traditional round meeting room table is not feasible. Another benefit of barrel-shaped meeting room tables is their rounded design, which encourages conversation and has the benefit of stretching out to accommodate more people comfortably.

Barrel tables also bring a contemporary feel to any office environment. Adding some flair while maintaining a functional, collaborative layout. They are a great addition to large conference rooms and can easily adapt to different meeting formats, from brainstorming to more structured, formal discussions.

Trapezoidal Conference Tables: Customisable for Unique Layouts

Looking for maximum flexibility with your conference tables? Trapezoidal meeting tables are an excellent option for your workspace, as they can be configured to create custom conference table shapes and sizes, perfectly tailored to the unique dimensions of your office. By arranging several trapezoidal desks, you can create a meeting room table that fits a room’s unique dimensions. Whether you’re looking for a rectangular, oval, or custom conference table, BT Office Furniture has ideal solutions for your workspace.

This modular approach also makes trapezoidal meeting tables great for businesses needing something that can adapt to different types of meetings or changing office layouts, from smaller team discussions to larger presentations.

For more office layout design inspirations, check out our recent blog on the 4 Different Layout Ideas for Modern Offices.

Meeting Room Tables: Aesthetic and Design Preferences

The design of your conference table can influence not only the functionality of your space, but also the overall atmosphere of your office. Whether modern and sleek, or more traditional your choice of meeting table will influence how visitors see your brand.

Modern Conference Table Designs: D-End, Barrel, and Circular Tables

If you’re aiming for a sleek, contemporary look, bespoke conference tables are the way to go. D-end, barrel, and circular tables all feature smooth lines and minimalistic designs that give the room a contemporary and sophisticated feel. These types of meeting room tables are often designed using durable materials such as glass, polished wood, or metal, creating a clean and modern aesthetic. Making this type of office furniture excellent for stylish office settings and a great choice for creative and forward-thinking companies.

D-End, Barrel, and Circular meeting room tables also work well in open-plan offices where a sense of openness and innovation is important. Their contemporary designs can reflect modernity, flexibility, and creativity, giving your conference room a polished, high-end look that remains approachable and not too formal.

For more guidance on the best best modern meeting room furniture to consider check out our latest blog: What Furniture Do You Need For A Modern Meeting Room?

Traditional Designs: Trapezoidal, Rectangular, and Square Meeting Room Tables

For more traditional settings, trapezoidal, rectangular, and square conference tables offer a timeless and professional look. These office tables tend to have more structured designs with sharp angles and clear lines, aligning well with corporate cultures with a more conservative approach to meetings.

Traditional conference table are often made from solid wood or similar materials which also make them best-suited for executive boardrooms and legal offices, as well as for companies wanting to convey a serious and established presence.

Is a Conference Table Worth the investment?

Ultimately, the right conference table isn’t just a piece of furniture – it’s a place where ideas come together, and are put into action. So next time you’re picking a boardroom table, think about how your team communicates and what kind of environment you want to create. With the right conference table, your meetings won’t just be more effective – they’ll also be more enjoyable!

Conterence Tables at BT Office Furniture

Ready to upgrade your meeting room? Explore our wide range of high-quality conference tables at BT Office and discover the perfect balance of practicality and style for your conference room. All our boardroom table options are available in a variety of sizes, finishes and designs. Ensuring plenty of choice for any room shape, size and aesthetic.

Need some expert advice? Get in touch today with our team here at BT Office Furniture to help you to choose the perfect conference table for your workspace. You can reach us by emailing [email protected] or by calling  0800 298 7033.