5 Tips For Choosing A Reception Desk for Your Corporate Office

Your reception area is the first thing people see when they walk into your office, so it’s important to make that first impression count!

Your reception area should be functional, practical, aesthetically pleasing, and on brand. It may seem like a tall order, but take it one step at a time, starting with the perfect reception desk. There are many types of reception desks, but not all are created equal.

Here are 5 key things to consider before purchasing a reception desk for your office:

1. Choose the right size

First things first, you have to figure out how much space you have to work with. The last thing you want to do is order a reception desk that doesn’t fit your space, so measure and sketch out your space carefully.

Remember that bigger isn’t always better. Just because you have the space to fit a large desk doesn’t mean that will be the best fit for your staff. Oftentimes small to medium-sized desks can optimize your receptionist's duties.

Pro tip: Don’t just measure for the desk. You have to also account for chairs, storage, and other accessories. There should be at least 60 inches of extra space so the receptionist can move around comfortably and efficiently.

But you don’t have to do it all on your own—reach out to a professional like Furngully, who will measure your space and provide you with a space plan.

2. Decide on a shape

There are so many types of reception desks to choose from that it can be difficult to select the right one for your space. 4 of the most popular are U-shaped, Straight, L-shaped, and Spheric.

U-shaped

U-shaped reception desks are typically an excellent fit for larger waiting rooms with one or more receptionists working simultaneously. These desks can have a slight curve design or straight edges and are excellent for multitasking because of their large surface area.

Straight

This timeless design is ideal for smaller reception areas. Straight desks are perfect for a variety of office spaces, including corporate offices, beauty salons, restaurants, and more.

Designed with ultimate freedom and flexibility, the Axis by Workspace 48 is an excellent Straight desk option. Axis reception features Studio White Melamine, chrome beading detail, and Straight options with or without a top bar. These desks ship in 48 hrs! Get Your Free Quote

Axis straight reception

L-Shaped

One of the most popular reception desk styles, the L-shaped desk includes a main desk as well as an additional section for the receptionist. This design allows employees to move easily from one work surface to another to boost efficiency and productivity. L-shaped reception desks come in a variety of sizes, making them a great option for any reception space.

An L-shaped desk that incorporates both efficiency and style is the Aloha By Tayco. This modern reception desk is expertly crafted to be both functional for employees and showstopping for visitors. Aloha can be customized by finishes, metal colors, surface, handles, and more to perfectly complement your office. Get Your Free Quote

tayco aloha

Spheric

A Spheric, or round, reception desk style is ideal for an office space that may not have a designated reception area. Large offices with an open floor plan may not have room for a large reception desk, but still need space for a receptionist.

The Logiflex Spheric ticks all the boxes. Designed to be efficient and timeless, the Logiflex Spheric desk is perfect for large space environments that need a reception area that is both attractive and practical. Get Your Free Quote

Logiflex Spheric

3. Work with your office's style and design

Your reception desk is critical in someone’s first impression of your office. A well-designed reception desk can make your office feel inviting and welcoming, while a cluttered or poorly designed reception desk can do the opposite.

Take into consideration how the design of your reception desk is going to blend in with the overall design of your office and your industry. Every part of your office should cohesively blend into the other.

For example, if your office features a more modern, industrial design, the Knight Reception desk is sure to leave an impression. This reception desk comes in various shapes and sizes to fit seamlessly into your office. Get Your Free Quote

Knight Reception

4. Determine what functions you need

There’s more to a reception desk than simply the work surface. When you’re deciding on a desk, you need to take into account other factors such as:

  • Storage

  • Countertop space

  • Ergonomics

  • Equipment and Privacy

  • Lighting

Your reception desk needs to be functional for your employees, so ask them what features would make them comfortable and streamline their work.

5. Know your timeline and budget

Office furniture is an investment, so before you start shopping around, have a budget in mind.

Not only is it a big cost, but furniture can also take a while to arrive. Global supply chain shortages have extended some manufacturers’ furniture lead times up to 12+ weeks. If you need a new reception desk quickly, shop for quick-ship options from brands like Groupe Lacasse, Clear Design or Workspace 48 who have desks currently shipping in 2 weeks or less.

Reception desks that are on time, on trend, and budget.

When you work with an experienced team, you can rest assured that your reception desk will be the perfect style, shape, and size for your office space. Our team at Furngully can bring your vision of the perfect reception area to life. Tell us what your goals are - schedule your free design consultation today.

“We provide expert contract furniture solutions that empower our clients to effortlessly upgrade their workplace, delivering exceptional value every time.”

-Kevin Burke, Principal