It’s true that first impressions count, and when you are looking for receptionist desk ideas, then you will need to plan them with your clientele in mind. We’ve got six great tips to help you create a space to be proud of – check them out now!

Think About Your Reception Desk

The first thing people will notice when they step into your office is the reception desk, making it an important focal point to get right! You will need to ensure that your team has enough space to work without taking up too much room and making the space feel cramped. Popular choices include a curved reception desk, wood reception desk and a modern reception desk so that your space invites everyone in.

Install Comfortable Seating

Another vital part of your reception area design is the seating you provide for your visitors. You will need to make sure that they are comfy, clean and inviting so that people feel welcome as soon as they arrive. It is also important to ensure that you have enough chairs for the footfall you typically get so that no one is left waiting. Finally, make sure that your seating is easy to clean and maintain so that your reception area design is always attractive to guests.

Choose the Right Colours

When it comes to colours, muted tones are the best for creating a calm and relaxed environment. However, if your brand has a vibrant colour in its logo, use it as an accent colour so that your clients know who you are without being overly stimulated when you want them to feel calm and comfortable.

Light Up Your Reception Space

When you have chosen the right office reception desk and reception furniture, you will need to light the space accordingly. Light and airy is always the best choice and using LED lights will help create the natural look you want to achieve. Ensure that there are no dark corners so that your client will feel relaxed and welcome no matter where they sit.

Accessorise with Clients in Mind

When you are choosing accessories, think about what your client may need. It could be a coat rack or an umbrella stand, or even a table to put their laptop on. If you think about your client’s needs, then you are sure to end up with the right design. It’s also important to consider what your clients are looking at when they sit down, so stop and take a look from their perspective. They will not want to see a cheap reception desk or piles of paperwork, so make sure that you design with them in mind.

Think About Your Clients Needs

Finally, when you are confident that your reception counter design is complete, consider the small touches that will help your clients be productive when they wait. For example, sharing the Wi-Fi password and refreshments will not just impress them but will make them feel welcome before your meeting even starts!

If you are ready to design your space or looking for office reception ideas, then Auraa is here for you! From the choosing best reception desk for sale to the accessories you want for your clients, we can help. So get in touch today, and let us transform your space!

9 Key Considerations When Designing A Reception Area

Office Finder Team

The reception area is the first experience guests, and visitors will have on your business. The receiving area will be dealing with potential clients, business partners, and aspiring employees. For these essential functions, it is imperative to design a reception area that can carry the company’s brand or service.

There are a myriad of designs available for inspiration. Some reception areas come with opulent furnishings while others come with modern or technologically-ready features. Taking in ideas from other existing reception areas is an excellent initial step when planning for your reception although it is best to have a reception design that is streamlined to cater to your company’s particular needs.

Importance of a Reception Area

A. Shows a Professional and Well Established Company
B. An Added Buffer or Screening for Visitors and Guests
C. A Comfortable Waiting Area
D. An Indirect Marketing Tool
E. Monitor the Ingress and Egress of Employees and Visitors
F. Acts as an Information Desk

Designing the forefront of your business can be an overwhelming task. We have placed together the most important considerations to make a compelling design for your reception area.

1. Branding and Service

As the forefront of your company, a reception area should be able to represent the brand and service professionally. Typical reception desks may have the company’s logo on the backdrop of the reception area or placed on the front surface of the reception counter or desk. Either way, the brand or name should be clear and highlighted, as it will be the first thing a visitor should notice. Three dimensional and LED or neon lighted brand name and logos are common ways to emphasize the branding further. Although company promotional videos played on the TV are also becoming an accessible mode of brand display today.

2. Layout and Size

The capacity and design layout of your reception area will depend primarily on the type of service your company provides. Though generally, a reception area should have one seating area, a desk or counter, and seats for visitors. Enterprises that may need more than one receptionist may include medical facilities and large banks.
The average height for a raised counter is 1.5 m, which is high enough to cover a monitor or desktop. Make sure to choose a counter height or design that won’t obstruct or create a blind spot from the receptionist’s point of view.

3. Clear Point of Navigation

Since the reception area is the first area, visitors become familiarized, place signage, and point of direction. If you have a large enough office space, place a map or floorplan near the reception desk where guests may easily see.

4. Workstation Productivity

A receptionist must have ample space to maneuver comfortably. Besides, the workstation should accommodate computers, intercom phones, documents, and other necessary equipment. Consider the location and number of convenience outlets placed within the reception area. Also, an ergonomically designed furniture should be considered. A comfortable seating or counter height prevents strain on the receptionist’s part as they typically work hours standing or sitting behind the reception area.

5. Comfortable Seating for Visitors

The type of seating arrangement and design will depend on your company’s service. For a rule of thumb, select seating furniture similar for lounge areas as it gives off a more corporate look.

Reading materials such as magazines and newspapers have been a staple for most reception areas. Today, you may also provide television viewing for your visitors where you can flash promotional videos or other entertainment programs.

6. Security Features

Design your reception area where documents, equipment, and other workstation essentials are secured from intruders or assailants. Place passwords on computers or cash registers to prevent unwanted access.

Have the reception counter or desk high part that are high enough to protect the reception desk behind. Additional security features such as panic or alert buttons can be discretely placed underneath the reception desk. Installing a CCTV is common for most reception areas. Make sure though to have a high-quality CCTV camera installed, and that has a night vision mode.

7. Lighting

Sufficient lighting can improve or change the atmosphere in a room or space. The type of lighting layout, color, or fixture will depend on the kind of service you offer. For instance, a spa reception area may use calmer lighting colors while a hotel may use warm colors for an inviting mood.

Lighting should also be functional. Make sure to provide ample lighting for the workstation, and that can be adjusted at times during the day. It may also be advisable to place the centralized lighting control within reach of the receptionist.

8. Overall Look

At first glance, a successfully designed reception area should be able to clearly communicate and introduce the brand or service of the company. For example, a legal office may look professional or even intimidating to project a no-nonsense atmosphere. For a children’s health facility, meanwhile, will need to be inviting to young children.

9. Initial Cost and Expenses

From the budding entrepreneur to an established enterprise, it is best to get a ballpark figure on how much it will cost to get your reception up and running smoothly. Going beyond your expected expenses before launching a business may incur additional problems. Smartly plan before hiring a contractor, and don’t hesitate to ask questions when unsure.

Be mindful of the cost implications of your design. Geometrical or straight-edged counters or desks generally may cost less compared to curvy designs. Constructing irregular shapes consumes more time as well as specialized skills to build.

Strike a balance between cost and quality. Materials such as travertine or granite slabs can be more expensive but are durable compared to synthetic materials.

Ultimately a reception area welcomes people who directly or indirectly can affect the success of the business. That is why it is important to include important considerations to make your company’s reception area functional and, at the same aesthetically appealing.

In all, the success of your reception area will depend mainly on the design, the hired personnel, and equipment. If in doubt, it might be better to hire a professional designer to take your insights and refine them. This way, you save time and money in the long run.

About Office Finder Singapore

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