The Return of Reception Rooms
As summer approaches we enter a new phase in our fight against COVID. For the last year we have done almost everything remotely through computers and telephones. However, with the vaccine available to most people we are starting to slowly and safely reopen. People are leaving their homes, returning to in-person work, and starting to welcome clients back into the workplace. As a result of this, it is time to revisit our reception areas. We will once again need a space for people to wait both safely and comfortably.
First Impressions
Reception areas are the first thing our clients and guests see when they enter the office. It is important for them to make a great first impression. Customers, clients, and potential business partners will be turned off by an area that looks dirty and messy. If we cannot keep an area clean and organized, would they trust us with their health or financial future. That being said, reception areas do not need to be over the top or overpriced. A basic seating area and with a coffee table and end table is all that is needed. If you have the space for a reception desk, it is a great option. This area allows someone to work while being available to guests at the same time. Additionally, their transaction tops are great for doing paperwork. Some reception rooms feature televisions, magazine holders, and coat racks but these accessories are not required. Just remember this one important rule. When designing a reception area, it must serve its purpose. It must provide a comfortable place for people to wait.
Chairs, What Matters Most
Seating is the most crucial aspect to any waiting area. If the seats are uncomfortable people will be unhappy and grow impatient. The number of seats available is an important factor as well. To many chairs and the room will be cluttered and full of wasted space. Too few chairs and people will be stuck standing in awkward situations. Some offices feature reception rooms with just chairs, while others use love seats, couches, and bench seating as well. There is no rule on how it must be done if it works. The other important factor when picking a great waiting room chair is the material they are made from. For years most chairs featured fabric upholstery. This was an alternative to expensive leathers and came in countless styles and patterns. If you wanted a high end look you would get leather and pay more. In recent years we started to see the demand for healthcare rated vinyl alternative fabrics. These materials are easy to clean and are antibacterial. In the post COVID office, we should expect to see the demand for this type of chair to rise. Cleanliness is the key to staying healthy and being easy to clean is essential. That is why these materials were developed in the first place. Their need and, most likely, their demand will only increase over the next few years.
Upgrades and Remodels
If you feel like your reception area is not ready for business in the 21st century, then it is time for an upgrade. Updating your area can be done in many ways and with drastically different price tags. Sometimes a new coat of paint or a new rug can transform an area. Other times some well placed accessories can make a huge difference. However, for some, a full remodel and new décor scheme might be necessary. This can also be done on a budget. Office furniture styles and prices vary greatly. The materials they are made from effect price, style, and function. A busy office that sees multiple guests needs something that is easy to clean often. In contrast, a smaller office might only have one or two guests a day and the risk of spreading germs is drastically different between the two areas. In these situations, a less, expensive chair could be the perfect solution. If you are thinking about an upgrade, consider these questions. What is your budget? What style do you want? Who is going to be using the space? Do you need design help? If you have answers to some of these questions but not all of them it is okay. You must start somewhere. However, if you need advice or need perspective feel free to email us at sales@furniturewholesalers.com. We are always happy to help.
We hope that by this time next year we are living in a world where disease concerns are not in the forefront of people’s minds. We hope that we can welcome guests and we pray for success in all our endeavors. Business will never be the same again, but it will continue to evolve. It is up to us to ensure that our workplace setting evolves with it. Reception rooms everywhere will one day be full of people eagerly waiting for their appointment. Let us make sure they wait comfortably and in style.