The classic definition of a conference room is changing. Learn about new collaborative spaces in this blog post.
Today’s workplace is shifting significantly from one of individual work and separation, to one of group work and collaboration. With that in mind, designing a conference room or other collaborative space has gained much more weight in its importance when furnishing an office. From comfort to functionality, conversation to technology, there’s a lot to keep in mind. Here are some tips that we’ve come up with to ease the process.
Don’t Get Stuck in the Past
Large leather-upholstered chairs and huge oak conference tables are still useable and important to a conference room, but they’re now a foundation — and kind of an outdated one — rather than a cornerstone. The modern workplace moves very rapidly and large bulky furniture is becoming impractical. It’s reasonable now to focus on smaller collaborative spaces instead of or in addition to a traditional conference room. This can be accomplished by arranging public spaces in a way that lets employees sit and chat about ideas and think creatively, freed from a traditional desk space. If you are going to go the traditional route, don’t forget to incorporate tools that are now part of a modern meeting. Things like projector displays and other technological integration are crucial.
Spruce the Place Up a Little
Collaboration has been proven to be facilitated by comfort and visual appeal, so be sure to pay attention to these categories when furnishing and designing your collaborative space. Discomfort can be distracting, and distracted employees are not at their optimum productivity. To avoid distraction and mind-blocks, give a little extra attention to design. Your creative thinkers will appreciate it.
Minimize Distractions
Aside from the above distraction of discomfort, there are other ways that it’s important to retain focus in meetings through furniture. Replace old, wobbly, squeaky and creaky furniture. Fix flickering lights and noisy fans or vents. Make sure that there are enough chairs — and hopefully also enough table space — so that everyone can focus on the meeting instead of jockeying for space. Consider a round table so that everyone is facing each other and can communicate and exchange ideas freely. These are all crucial ways to keep your employees focused to boost meeting productivity.
Design Your Conference Room with American Design Associates, Inc.
American Design Associates, Inc. is a Contract Furniture Dealer and Design Firm located in Towson, Maryland. We proudly consider ourselves a “Dream Team” comprised of experienced project managers, interior designers, service technicians and an outstanding customer support team. We service clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic region including Maryland, DC, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and beyond. We have the resources and the know how to provide the best solution for all of your business needs.
Call American Design Associates today at (410) 823-5500, contact us on our website or pay us a visit today. We want to help you stay organized in the office.
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