The first thing to consider when selecting the right conference table for your business is knowing just how many tables you have room for. While you may want a large enough conference table to seat as many people as possible, you have to leave enough space in the room for chairs to be comfortably pushed away from the table. This allows people to walk around the table and to add additional furniture to the room. Keep in mind, that a conference room needs more furniture than just a conference table and conference chairs – you may also want room for bookshelves, a serving credenza, a lectern, or other items.
As with all office furniture purchases, selecting a new conference table can be a daunting task. What factors should you keep in mind when shopping for your new conference table? This buying guide will cover some key concerns and hopefully make your conference table purchase easier and less confusing.
While, as mentioned above, you may want as large a conference table as you can fit in your conference room, consider how many people generally attend your meetings. While a large conference table capable of seating twenty people may look impressive, it may be overkill if your meetings typically consist of only four or five people.
Conference tables come in a variety of shapes, and beyond dictating how well a conference table may fit into a room, these shapes can actually influence the mood of your conference room. For example, a round table keeps everyone on a level playing field and encourages collaboration. A rectangular table, on the other hand, can place one person at the head of the group and establish a hierarchy within your conference room. Boat-shaped conference tables are another option that is becoming more common and allow for a mix of hierarchical positioning and collaboration.
Choosing the right conference table size starts with measuring your room carefully and understanding how the space will be used. Always allow 36–48 inches of clearance around the table so chairs can slide out comfortably and people can move freely.
General seating guidelines include:
Select a table based on your typical meeting size rather than the maximum capacity of the room. A properly scaled table should feel balanced with your conference chairs and leave space for additional furniture, creating a functional and professional meeting environment.
