The design of workspaces has a significant impact on how the users react when they’re using them. Some workspaces are more conducive to productive work than others. At Flow Office, we’re always looking for ways to make offices more productive and help them better meet the needs of their users. One such area is the boardroom.
In the past, little creative thought was given to the design of the company boardroom. If it had a large table and a sufficient number of chairs, it would be considered satisfactory for the job. Over recent years, that has changed as companies have developed more understanding of how boardroom design, layout and furniture can impact the board’s discussions and the decisions that are made.
The choice of room
New offices may include a designated boardroom in their initial design. When a building is being repurposed this is less likely to be the case, so it’s important to choose the right location for your boardroom.
Think about how light enters the room and whether it will be problematic or helpful. Make sure it’s large enough for your needs and is removed from too much noise and other distractions.
Boardroom Lighting
Natural light may play a significant part in creating the right atmosphere in your boardroom, but in some cases, this may be limited. During autumn and winter, natural light may be in short supply, meaning that artificial lighting will be required.
Boardroom lighting should be relaxed and not too harsh yet needs to be light enough to ensure that people can carry out their work and discussions.
Decor
In the past, boardrooms were often either utilitarian to the extreme or very traditional in their choice of decor, with dark wood and leather seating being popular choices. While the latter can still be found in some workplaces, increasingly boardrooms combine comfort with utility, reflecting more inclusive attitudes.
Company boards are gradually becoming more diverse and the choice of decor reflects this. Contemporary colours and office design are often key parts of a modern boardroom at a forward-thinking company.
Furniture
The choice of meeting tables and chairs will often reflect the ethos of the company. While comfort matters, avoiding chairs with armrests can be helpful when it comes to saving space.
Choosing chairs that are identical ensures that there are no ‘reserved’ chairs for particular individuals. The layout of the table and chairs should make it easy for everyone to see monitors and other audio-visual equipment that may be used during meetings.
Do you really need a boardroom?
An important question to ask yourself is if you really need a boardroom?
Many companies are now favouring smaller 4/6 person meeting/zoom rooms instead of one large boardroom. This is because, on average, a large boardroom only gets used 30% of the time and at 25% occupancy.
Is a traditional boardroom the best use of your space or is time to be more creative?
Create a functional and comfortable boardroom or meeting/zoom room
Flow Office can create the ideal boardroom/meeting/zoom room for your company. Whether you’re looking for a complete redesign or would like to update tired old furniture, we can help.
Your physical spaces convey the personality of your brand as much as anything you say or do, and at Flow, we’re experts at helping you find the style and décor that accurately reflects your company values and personality.
To find out more about our meeting room furniture and office design services call 01922 453 488 or email sales@flowoffice.co.uk today.
