The conference table is often the centerpiece of your workspace—a place where ideas come to life, deals are sealed, and collaboration flourishes. Selecting the right conference table is not just a functional decision; it’s a reflection of your company’s brand, values, and aspirations. But how do you choose the perfect one for your space? At Alan Desk Business Interiors, we’ve been helping businesses make these decisions since 1941, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Below, we break down the critical factors to consider when selecting a conference table, helping you create a space that is not only functional but elegantly tailored to your needs.
Assessing Your Conference Room Needs
A well-sized conference table ensures comfort and accessibility for every participant. You don't want a conference table that is too big or too small for the space and for this reason the primary guideline here is to leave a minimum clearance of 36 inches on all sides of the table. This provides ample space for user to access their seat without disrupting others. Without this clearance, simple tasks like taking a seat or leaving the table can become inconvenient, compromising the flow of your meetings and causing unessesary distractions.
For example, in a small conference room, a more compact table might be ideal, while larger boardrooms can accommodate expansive, statement-making tables. Take careful measurements of your room and consider how many people regulary attend meetings.
What is the purpose of this conference table?
There are three main purposes for conference tables, each tailored to suit specific needs and settings.
Client Meeting Tables
- Designed for meeting with clients and sealing deals.
- Serve as a focal point to make a lasting impression.
- Showcase professionalism and set a tone of confidence.
- Help build trust and reinforce successful partnerships.
Internal Meeting Tables
- Focused on collaboration and teamwork.
- Crafted to encourage discussions, brainstorming, and strategy development.
- Ideal for fostering creative solutions.
Boardroom Tables
- Large and striking to exude authority.
- Accommodate high-level discussions among executives and decision-makers.
- Provide a commanding, well-equipped environment.
Selecting The Right Shape
The shape of your conference table significantly impacts the dynamics of your meetings. Whether you aim to encourage collaboration, facilitate presentations, or make a bold aesthetic statement, the right shape can make all the difference. Below are some popular options and their benefits:
Rectangular Conference Tables
- Best for: Standard and narrow conference rooms.
- A classic and timeless choice, rectangular tables maximize seating capacity and provide a balanced, professional look. They are ideal for hierarchical settings, with one end often serving as the “head of the table.”
To clarify, just because it is a classic and timeless choice, it doesn't necesarly mean old and outdated. It all depends on the base style and material choices.
Racetrack Conference Tables
- Best for: Modern aesthetics and balanced participation.
- Racetrack conference tables merge the functionality of a rectangular table with the inviting feel of a round design, offering a balanced approach to group collaboration. Originally introduced as a way to maximize seating capacity while maintaining an open ambiance, these tables feature straight edges along the length for ample workspace and subtly curved corners to promote smoother interaction
Boat-Shape Conference Tables
- Best for: Preferable for large conference rooms that are not narrow.
- Boat-shaped conference tables, distinguished by their subtle outward curve, were introduced to enhance line of sight and foster more inclusive interactions. This thoughtful design ensures every participant is easily visible and engaged, making it particularly effective for collaborative teams and presentations where clear communication matters. Additionally, the gentle arc adds a polished, spacious feel that elevates any meeting environment.
Crescent Conference Tables (Latest Design)
- Best for: Innovative and high-tech conference rooms.
- Crescent-shaped tables foster collaborative energy by eliminating sharp corners and allowing for flexibility in seating arrangements. Their modern design makes a bold statement and this shape is exclusive for telecomunicating with remote teams and clients.
Want To see our favorite Conference Tables?
Our Top 10 Conference Tables
How Important Are The Bases?
From an aesthetic point of view, not that much, but from a functional perspective, they are very important. This is because the base is what houses your wire management and A/V equipment. If you are adding 3+ power modules and housing A/V equipment, then it is better to use an island base. This is more true if the floor cores (where power and data comes from) is in an odd place/s. Medium A/V equipment requirements, opt for thick panel bases with an access door. Minimal A/V and power / data connections, you can go with a modern loop leg that has wire management.
Budget Considerations
When planning your budget, it’s essential to balance cost with functionality. One of the most frequent mistakes businesses make when they have a limited budget is overspending on the conference table's base and underspending on comfortable seating and power modules. If you think about it, you don't see the base of the table once there are chairs around it.
Where to Prioritize Your Budget:
- Conference Chairs: Quality seating is critical. Opt for ergonomic chairs that ensure comfort during long meetings. These will have a far greater impact on your team’s experience than the design of the table legs.
- Power Modules: A table that accommodates integrated power outlets, USB ports, HDMI, ethernet ports, and cable management systems is invaluable in today’s tech-driven workplaces. You do not want the lack if integrated technology to hinder how your presentations are delivered.
- Matching Buffet Credenzas: Do not forget about the buffet credenza in your conference room. Especially if you are serving food, pastries, and / or need a palce to accessories and accolades. Inside the doors / drawers, it's a place to store essential equipment and supplies for your presentations. High-end buffet credenzas could have trash cans, A/V equipment racks, and a fridge.
Cost-Saving Tip:
If you’re working within a limited budget, laminate finishes may be the perfect compromise. Modern laminates emulate wood veneer beautifully but are far more affordable and easier to maintain. For businesses seeking durability with style, laminate is a smart, budget-friendly choice.
Enhancing Your Space with Visuals
A conference table should resonate with your brand. Consider pairing your chosen conference table with complementary touches such as wall art, acoustic panels, and lighting that reflects your company culture. Incorporating these design elements ensures your table fits seamlessly into the broader office aesthetic.
Take a moment to envision how these shape options and finish materials might look in your workplace. Visualizing possibilities can help refine your selection and match the table to your company's personality. You could also contact us so we can create 3D renderings and provide you with a quote per your specifications.
Alan Desk Business Interiors Inc—Your Trusted Source For Top Quality Office Furniture
Making the right choice for conference room furniture is quite a task that you don't have to do it alone— At Alan Desk, our experienced team of designers can help you assess your space, understand your unique needs, and guide you toward the perfect selection of conference room furniture. Since 1941, we’ve been creating workspaces that merge streamlined functionality with timeless aesthetics.
If you’re ready to elevate your boardroom with a tailored solution, contact us today. Together, we’ll design a space that reflects your vision and empowers your team.
Explore our offerings, gain insights, and experience a legacy of excellence. [Contact Us Now]
A round, square, or oval are typical shapes for meeting tables that fit in a meeting room. A meeting room by nature is small and only meant to accomodate a maximum of 4 to 6 people.
