The reception desk is a key element of creating a welcoming environment. It’s probably the first thing that visitors will notice and this piece of office furniture may help to form their initial impressions of your company.
But how best to create the ultimate reception area, featuring a show-stopping reception desk and supporting furnishings? Read on for some reception revamp ideas and inspiration.
Whatever your brand style, reception furnishings are crucial in helping to create the right impression and the reception desk is likely to be the first thing people see as they enter.
When thinking about ideas for the desk, consider front desk functionality and usage. Does the desk need to multitask, for example will it need to double up as a meeting point for conference attendees or process multiple visitors simultaneously?
Think carefully about the desk design that will best reflect the style of your business.
What does your brand look like?
Welcoming curves and sculptural designs tell visitors they are entering a modern company that embraces people and has strong ideas about design. Curved desks are practical and stylish. Think semi-circular desks, kidney shaped desks or straight desks with curved ends.
Loved by even the most modern business because these styles never go out of fashion. The vintage look can range from antique Victorian dark woods with intricate detailing through to the curves and geometric shapes of Art Deco to sleek Mid-century designs. Often accessorised with matching reception area furniture or standout accessories (we’ve seen everything from vintage typewriters to carousel horses).
Beloved by clinics, spas and companies in the wellness spectrum, the modern minimalistic look encompasses pure white, (generally matt finishes rather than high gloss), pale woods, statement green plants and ‘Scandi-style’ design with minimal warmer accents in natural materials. Less is more and quality matters.
As modern workplaces have emerged from the purpose built to designer-adapted spaces like old warehouses and converted barns, commercial interior design has followed suit with decorative exposed metal finishes, hairpin legs, distressed woods, reclaimed wood and polished concrete. These materials can all work brilliantly in ex-industrial buildings like warehouses or in large spaces with exposed ceiling ducts or beams.
Sometimes the shape, size and functions of the reception area may limit your choice of desk. It’s here that clever use of colour and design can allow the desk itself to highlight your design theme or even your brand colours. Go gloss or matt. Modern finishes include neutral tones, soothing pastels, or channel your eighties vibe with bright primary colours and geometric shapes.
Effective marketing starts at the front door. Keep branding at the forefront of everyone’s mind by customising your reception desk to highlight your brand identity.
Integrating technologies and functionalities into your reception desk can benefit the workspace in many ways, by making workflows easier, keeping things looking neat and tidy and minimising trailing cables. Try incorporating charging points in desks, tables or even reception furniture.
With commercial property prices at a premium it’s more important than ever to make the most of all available space. Take the following points into account:
A welcoming workplace atmosphere is important for new visitors, existing clients and staff. A truly welcoming space should be accessible, with a comfortable ambient temperature in summer and winter. There should be ergonomic spaces to work in and comfortable seating to wait in.
If the space allows, use carefully positioned ceiling spotlights to ensure adequate lighting in areas where people need to read, write and work. Where the main lighting feature is central or decorative, like a feature chandelier, try adding additional lighting with positionable lamps.
We hope we’ve given you some great inspiration for your reception revamp. Remember to build the space and the decor around your own company ethos and branding. Don’t forget to think about how best to create the most welcoming space you can for visitors and staff.
For extra help and advice check out our website for some great commercial reception desks or reception seating, or ask our experts for help with design, bespoke reception furniture, space planning and more.
Plants and greenery are a great way to bring life to a space and with the huge range of options available now there really is a suitable plant for every space. Select something that reflects your branding, whether modern or traditional, and make sure it is regularly watered and fed.
All visitors will appreciate a comfortable seat. Again choose a style that reflects the branding and design of your reception space. Try and include a mix of small sofas and individual reception chairs. Make sure there are small tables for laptops, paperwork or drinks.
Channel your branding, but tailor the shades to the individual space. Consider the natural light available and how this might change with the seasons. Go dark for warmth or lighter to create space.
It’s the little touches that can help people to remember your company. Make sure that mugs and glasses are in line with the overall design style. Choose cushions in colours that reflect branding. Select magazines that reflect the company ethos.
Why not curate your artwork to ensure that it reflects the company values you want to portray. As well as looking for complementary colours, think carefully about the subject matter. It’s often easiest to stick to abstracts.
Consider offering drinking water or even the option of hot beverages. Staff will appreciate a secure space to hang coats, while visitors may be grateful for a chance to remove and hang up wet outdoor clothes.
The simplest way to ensure that people enjoy a good first impression is to keep the reception area clean, tidy and well-aired. Make sure that regular cleaning is scheduled, preferably not when visitors are waiting.
