Types of conference rooms and how to compare between them

Discover the different types of conference rooms, their layouts, and how to choose the right one for your meetings to boost productivity and collaboration.

Types of Conference Rooms

In the past few years, the world has evolved a lot, and so have we. Especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Video conferencing has made our lives easier. However, in-person, collaborative team meetings are still important. Personal connections and face-to-face interactions often make in-person meetings more effective and productive. The best way to conduct such in-person meetings is in a meeting or conference room.

Why are conference rooms important?

The days of a simple table and a few chairs are over. Now, you need different types of conference room settings that adhere to the agenda of an in-person meeting. Some may need a room equipped with the latest technology, while others may require a more relaxed environment. A well-designed conference room that meets your meeting needs will not only reflect your company’s values ​​but also enhance creativity and productivity.

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Types of Conference Rooms by Size and Functionality

Different conferences require different types of conference rooms. This depends on the number of people participating in the session, as well as the requirements of each conference. Here are some types of conference rooms based on their size and function:

Large Meeting Rooms

If you’re planning to host a meeting with a large number of people, you need large meeting rooms. These are meeting rooms equipped with video conferencing facilities. This means you can easily hold a meeting of up to 20 people while also connecting from remote locations.

Small Meeting Rooms

Small meeting rooms are ideal if you prefer a private space to talk with just your immediate team. These spaces contain a few chairs and a table for sitting and discussing business without any distractions.

Rooms with Collaboration Tools

If you need a technologically advanced meeting room fully equipped with a TV screen, whiteboard, video conferencing, and more, you can book these rooms on the go and enjoy an effective collaborative session with your team.

Rooms Without Tables

You don’t always need a table and a whiteboard to discuss important matters. Sometimes you need a comfortable and creative environment where you can freely discuss new ideas and come up with solutions.

Types of Conference Rooms by Design

Now that we’ve categorized conference room types by size and function, let’s take a look at the types of conference room setups based on their design:

Conference Room Style

Conference rooms designed in a boardroom style typically have a large table in the center, surrounded by chairs. They are ideal for meetings that require open discussion among participants.

Classroom Style

Classroom-style conference rooms feature multiple rows of chairs facing the front, similar to school classrooms. This is ideal for training sessions.

U-Shaped

In this style, tables are arranged in a U shape with chairs along the outer side. This layout is ideal for presentations that require audience participation.

Hollow Square

In this style, tables are arranged in a large square with an open center and chairs positioned on the outer side. The hollow square is ideal for group discussions and collaborative projects.

Theatre/Lecture Hall Style

In this style, several rows of chairs face a central stage or presentation area. It’s ideal for conferences or large speeches.

Banquet Style

Banquet-style conference rooms feature multiple round tables with chairs surrounding each table. This is ideal for team building sessions or networking events.

Huddle Style

Huddle rooms are used for quick, spontaneous meetings with your immediate team members. They’re ideal for brainstorming sessions or one-on-one discussions.

Why Conference Room Diversity Is Crucial

Conference room settings play a subtle but vital role in productivity and collaboration. Participants need to feel comfortable and able to communicate easily. The room’s layout and equipment, such as whiteboards and projectors, are essential, but it’s worth considering the conference room chairs. A lack of support and comfort can cause participants to wait until the end of a long meeting instead of focusing on the task at hand.

There is no single “best” type of conference room. Different settings suit different types of conferences. You should always match the room design to the type of conference. If the rooms are comfortable and equipped with the appropriate layout, equipment, and office chairs, attendees will be able to work without distractions and without wasting time making adjustments.

Read more about: Ways to Improve Conference and Videoconference Rooms

Conference Rooms

Conference rooms feature spacious spaces with a table and meeting chairs that can accommodate a large number of attendees. These rooms often host formal meetings. Their design allows everyone to view the presentation on a board or screen and participate in the discussions.

Furniture can include executive office chairs with high backs, tilt and swivel features, and high-quality fabrics, such as leather. Another option is a conference room chair, which features an ergonomic design and armrests. Both chairs are ideal for added comfort during long conferences, which are often held in conference rooms.

Meeting Rooms

Meeting rooms are where executives discuss strategic plans and engage in high-level discussions. These spaces are smaller than conference rooms and are often dominated by a large table surrounded by comfortable chairs, usually opposite digital display equipment.

Executive office chairs are common in both meeting and conference rooms, although boardroom chairs may be more spacious.

They are designed for extended periods of sitting. Appearance is also important in meeting rooms, as high-quality leather chairs provide a professional, upscale appearance.

Breakout Rooms

Breakout rooms are simpler than the previous two. They are designed for informal discussions and comfortable collaboration between team members and small groups.

These rooms may include comfortable chairs for guests. They fit better into a relaxed environment. Some companies even choose padded chairs or other comfortable furniture. However, breakout rooms are not just for relaxation; they typically contain productivity tools such as whiteboards.

Creative Spaces

The main purpose of creative spaces is to avoid resembling traditional conference rooms. They feature unconventional seating, unique designs, and advanced tools. This unique interior design aims to inspire creative thinking and break the mold.

Creative spaces may include chairs with colorful accents, low-backed chairs, or adjustable bar stools that team members can easily add to accommodate larger groups.

Outdoor Conference Rooms

Outdoor conference rooms provide a refreshing change of pace. Informal conference rooms can be located in gardens or on terraces, for example.

When planning outdoor events, consider the weather. You’ll need outdoor seating that can withstand the elements and provide shade or rain.

Plastic or metal furniture, such as café and restaurant chairs, are ideal furniture options. You can also consider benches if you want to host larger meetings.

Project Rooms

Project rooms are flexible. Teams need to adjust their elements to suit their needs at each stage of the project. Unlike many other types of small group meeting rooms, these rooms are designed for long-term use and feature tools and elements such as writable walls, screens, and other technologies useful for collaboration during the project.

Movable and adjustable furniture is essential for the dynamic environment of a project room. Swivel and roll chairs are easy to move around the room. Meanwhile, ergonomic mesh chairs provide support and comfort for long-term use. For some types of projects, height-adjustable chairs provide the necessary flexibility for the project team.

Here are the factors to consider when choosing conference room chairs:

• Ergonomics and Comfort: Support and comfort are crucial for rooms that host long meetings or project teams.
• Durability and Material Quality: Office furniture is a significant investment. Always choose high-quality materials that can withstand daily use.
• Style and Design: The style of your conference room chair should complement your interior decor.
• Flexibility and Adjustability: Conference chairs should accommodate a variety of users and uses.
• Finally, cost is another important factor. Determine your price range and choose conference chairs that fit your budget.

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Conclusion

In short, there are multiple types of conference rooms, and choosing the right one is crucial to the success of your meeting. The types of rooms equipped for meetings depend on various factors, such as the number of attendees, the meeting agenda, and more. Keep these factors in mind when choosing the right conference room type.