Table Buying Guide: Considerations for Style, Functionality, and Collaboration

Choosing the right boardroom table is essential for creating a professional, functional space where teams can collaborate, strategize, and connect. A well-chosen boardroom table sets the tone for your meetings, supports productivity, and leaves a lasting impression on clients and partners. Here are some key considerations to help you select a boardroom table that perfectly fits your space and meets your business needs.

1. Size and Room Layout

The size of your boardroom table is crucial to achieving a comfortable, functional space. Measure your boardroom carefully and ensure there’s enough space around the table for people to move freely, pull out chairs, and access technology or presentation areas. Ideally, there should be 90–120 cm of clearance between the table and walls to prevent crowding and create a professional, accessible environment.

Tip: Consider the number of people you need to seat regularly. For larger teams or frequent client meetings, a bigger table with more seating may be beneficial, but avoid tables that overwhelm the room.

2. Table Shape

Boardroom tables come in several shapes, each offering unique benefits and aesthetics:

• Rectangular Tables: A classic choice that provides a structured, professional look and accommodates more people.
• Oval Tables: A variation on the rectangular table, with softened edges for a less formal feel and easier flow around the table.
• Round Tables: Ideal for smaller boardrooms and collaborative discussions where everyone can easily see each other, promoting equality and open communication.
• Boat-Shaped Tables: A hybrid design with a narrow center and wider ends, ideal for both visibility and maximizing seating.
• U-Shaped Tables: Great for presentations, training sessions, and collaborative discussions, as they allow everyone to view the presenter easily.

Tip: Think about the types of meetings held most frequently in your boardroom, as this can influence which shape will best support the activities.

3. Seating Capacity

Evaluate your typical meeting size to determine the seating capacity you’ll need. As a general rule, allocate 60–90 cm of table space per person to ensure comfortable seating. Rectangular tables generally offer higher seating capacity, while round and oval tables may be more suitable for smaller groups.

Tip: If you frequently host large meetings, consider a modular table that allows additional sections to be added or rearranged as needed.

4. Technology Integration

In today’s digital world, technology integration is essential for efficient meetings. Many boardroom tables now come with built-in technology features, such as:

• Power Outlets and USB Ports: Essential for charging devices, laptops, and other tech tools during meetings.
• Cable Management: Built-in cable trays or grommets help keep cords organized and out of sight.
• Wireless Charging: A modern feature that allows seamless charging for compatible devices.
• AV Compatibility: Some tables come with compartments for projectors or screens, making it easier to connect presentation equipment.

Tip: Assess the tech needs of your team to select a table that supports their tools and keeps the boardroom organized.

5. Style and Aesthetic

Your boardroom table should reflect your company’s brand and create the desired atmosphere. Consider whether you want a traditional, modern, minimalist, or unique look, and choose a design that aligns with your brand’s identity. The table style can help set the tone, from formal to casual, creating an environment that fosters the right mindset for your meetings.

Tip: Coordinate the table design with the rest of the room’s decor, including chairs, lighting, and wall art, for a cohesive look.

6. Legroom and Comfort

A boardroom table should provide enough legroom and comfort for attendees. Look for a table that offers ample space underneath, as certain styles with thick table bases or pedestal designs can restrict leg space.

Tip: Ensure the table height is comfortable for the chairs you plan to use, typically around 71–76 cm for standard office chairs.

7. Budget Considerations

Boardroom tables come in a wide price range, influenced by factors like size, shape, style, and tech features. Determine a budget that fits your company’s resources, and weigh the features most important for your needs. Investing in a high-quality boardroom table can be a smart choice for long-term durability and an enhanced meeting experience, but there are also cost-effective options for those on a tighter budget.

Tip: Prioritize must-have features to balance quality with budget, ensuring you get the best value for your investment.

8. Environmental and Health Factors

Sustainability is increasingly important in modern office design, and there are plenty of eco-friendly boardroom table options. Look for tables made from sustainable materials, recycled wood, or low-VOC (volatile organic compound) finishes to reduce environmental impact and improve air quality in your workspace.

Tip: Opt for tables certified by organizations like the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) to ensure they meet high environmental standards.

9. Mobility and Flexibility

If your boardroom is used for a variety of purposes, consider a table with mobility features. Some tables come with casters, allowing you to rearrange or remove them as needed. Modular tables, which can be separated into smaller tables or reconfigured, are also great for multi-functional spaces.

Tip: Look for tables with lockable casters to ensure stability when in use, and modular tables that can easily be joined or separated without compromising stability.

Choosing the right boardroom table requires a balance between practicality, comfort, style, and functionality. By considering factors like size, shape, technology integration, and seating capacity, you can find a table that supports your team’s collaboration and reflects your brand’s professionalism. A thoughtfully selected boardroom table can transform your meeting space, creating a productive, comfortable, and welcoming environment for both employees and clients. Take time to evaluate your needs and invest in a table that enhances your boardroom experience for years to come