Choosing the right reception desk for your office. | Reception Desk Buying Guide
You only get one chance to make a first impression, so when it comes to buying a reception desk for your business entrance you need to make sure you get it just right. Your reception desk is the first point of contact for your visitors and can make or break their first impression of your office.
This is why it’s so important to choose the right reception furniture for your space and staff. With the reception being the front window to your business you need to make sure the area is attractive, yet functional. A practical design and space planning plays an important part when it comes to finding the perfect reception desk. You’ll want to make sure to take the time to come up with a clear plan before jumping into such a big purchase.
Here are what you should considered:
Reception Area Space
The size and layout of your office will have a big impact on how much space you want to dedicate to your reception area. No one wants to sit in an uncomfortable, cramped space make sure your reception area doesn’t leave your guests and receptionist feeling claustrophobic.
A tip to make sure your reception area has enough open space before you purchase; take a normal office chair, mark the size of the reception desk, and place the chair behind it. When you sit in the area yourself you can judge whether or not it would make you feel welcome if you were waiting to meet with someone in a similar space once the furniture is in place.
Perfect Reception Desk Shape or Design
Once you have thoroughly measured your reception area you can then choose from the different sizes and shapes of desks to find one that will fit your needs and office space.
Reception desks come in a variety of sizes, and you’ll want to choose one that best suits the needs of your receptionists and your guests.
Single surface reception desks
Have a single writing surface for the receptionist or receptionists as well as a transaction counter for guests to write on. These may be straight or curved and come in a range of sizes to suit one or more receptionists in your waiting area. Smaller versions of this type of reception desk are also commonly used in restaurants and other hospitality settings.
L-shaped reception desks
Include a main desk and a return that provide the receptionist with additional space to work. Most L-shaped desks are small enough that they are best used by a single receptionist at a time, though they do come in a range of sizes to suit different business needs.
U-shaped reception desks
Include a third work surface for receptionists to utilize. U-shaped reception desks can have a curve to them or have straight edges, and they can often be used by more than one receptionist at a time in a large waiting room.
Round reception desks.
Have a curved or circular appearance. These types of reception desks are best suited for larger waiting rooms where they can be the center of attention.
ADA reception desks
Are ADA compliant to accommodate individuals in wheelchairs. Most ADA desks feature a standard height transaction counter as well as an attached ADA height surface that measures about 33″ high.
Materials the Reception desk is made from
There’s plenty to choose from! These are the most popular options.
Laminate Finish
Although laminate can be made to look like it has real wood grains, it is actually made from some form of particle board with or without a wood grain print. Desks that have a laminate surface construction are ideal for high traffic offices because laminate does not scratch or dent easily and is generally easier to maintain and keep clean. Laminate is also an affordable option, making it a great choice for businesses on a tight budget.
Wood veneer
Wood veneer is a good in-between for those who want that real wood look without paying the high cost of solid wood furniture. Veneer desks have a similar base as laminate furniture (such as particle board), but feature a thin layer of real wood on top of that. Veneer desks can be trickier to clean and care for than laminate, but the veneer layer provides a much richer look that many offices prefer.
All-Metal Desk
Although metal desks are available in all-metal varieties, most come with a wood or glass top and just have metal framework for stability and industrial aesthetics. Metal desks are usually made of steel, though the gauge may vary and the desk may come in either a chrome or powder coated finish.
Glass Desks
Glass Desks
In the case of glass desks, the work surface is usually made of tempered glass that is thick to prevent shattering. This is usually complemented by metal framework. Glass is easy to clean, but it does show fingerprints easily. If you don’t want a full glass top, there are wood top options with a glass inlay available.
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