Conference Table Selection

Something like selecting a piece of office furniture may sound simple, but the vast array of options and design considerations can quickly make it a daunting task. The modern conference table ranges from large and heavy wood or granite pieces to modular table setups which allow for flexiblilty and creativity. In order to help you with the selection process we are going to simplify it to three categories: shape and size, material, and features

The very first thing you need to have in mind when shopping for a conference table is your price range. This is often the most limiting factor and also the point you are least likely to be willing to bend on. Should you be operating on a limited budget, you should consider looking for a used conference room table and looking on listing sites such as Craigslist. There is generally a decent selection available as companies in your area move, downsize, or close down. You should also keep in mind the environment you are trying to create as well as the functions the room will need to serve. We will point out some cases when these factors can come into play during our discussion.

The first thing that comes to mind when most people think of a conference table is the traditional rectangular or oval boardroom table. These designs are the most common and are ideal for rooms with rectangle layouts and in more formal settings such as board meetings. A cirular table promotes a feeling of equality among everyone sitting around it but can create a large amount of wasted space at its center in larger versions. Folding or modular designs are ideal for rooms that need to serve multiple purposes but can also look cheap or unprofessional to a client. The smooth and interesting lines created by more unusual shapes such as bowtie or figure 8 tables can reduce tension in a room and promote creative thinking. Small tables with curved fronts can also be ideal for client presentations as they will provide more space on which to lay brochures or materials. If you plan on using your room for presentations or training sessions, you should consider a U shaped table so that everyone sitting at it will have an unobstructed view of the individual speaking.

When choosing the size for your conference table you should first consider if you need to leave space for any other functions and also the required seating capacity. Conference tables are commonly manufactured in lengths ranging from 3 to 30 feet and many manufactors will build you a custom table to just about any length you desire. Before making your final decision, try out this handy trick. Take the dimensions of the table you want and outline them on the floor of your conference room in tape. Then bring enough chairs for the number of people you plan to seat and make sure that everyone will have enough room and that there is enough space for people to move around the table.

The material you select for your conference room table will have a significant impact on the room's environment.  A heavy wooden table is very traditional while glass or metal tables have a very modern feel.  Granite tables or tables with stainless steel, granite, ebony, or stained wood inlays add significant visual interest and distinction to a room.  There are also several companies such as MotoArt which produce conference tables that look more like works of art than office furniture.  However, these types of pieces lay far outside the price range of most businesses and are not appropriate in all settings.

A conference table can include an array of features which can improve the functionality of your table. Pull-out writing surfaces or small compartments can be incorporated for little cost while features such as integrated sound systems and multi-touch surfaces can cost as much as the table itself. If you utlize powerpoint presentation you may consider having a computer and projector integrated into your table as well as a remote and microphone for the presentor. If your employees often bring laptops to meetings, you may consider including power and internet hookups which can be concealed under popup lids. A conference call system can also be either integrated into the table itself or simply have a power and phone line hookup concealed in the table. Ultimately, the features available are limited by your budget as they can rapidly add the the cost of your table. What we have covered in this article is an overview of the commonly available features.

There are many more options available on the market as well as a number of custom design companies that can draw up and build a conference table to your exact needs. The trick is to approach the decision in a systematic manner in order to refine your choice until you come up with the best piece for your room.