When it comes to creating a productive and efficient workplace, a well-designed meeting room is essential. Whether you’re hosting small team discussions or large-scale presentations, a thoughtfully planned space can significantly impact the outcome of your meetings. For larger offices, having a number of high-quality meeting rooms is a must.
At Niche Projects, we design and build commercial spaces for all kinds of businesses. We’ve worked with offices big and small, delivering savvy design solutions, dynamic spaces, and a great dash of creativity. We know just what it takes to design and fitout high-quality meeting rooms, and we’re going to share some insights below.
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What makes a good meeting room?
There are a number of things that should be considered when designing a meeting room. Creating a truly great meeting space goes beyond just finding a quiet area with a big table and chairs. It should be a comfortable, functional, and inspiring environment that fosters collaboration and productivity.
This can be achieved by integrating several key elements.
- Comfortable seating
- Adequate lighting
- Technology integration
- Acoustic control
- Flexible layout
- Good ventilation and temperature control
The last thing you want during a long meeting is to be uncomfortable, and this, most of the time, is due to bad seating. Chairs that are ergonomic and well-cushioned will help attendees stay focused and comfy.
Good lighting is also crucial. Natural light is ideal, but if that’s not possible, use a mix of ambient and task lighting. Another thing to consider is temperature. You don’t want the room to be too hot or cold, so ensure there’s proper ventilation and temperature control.
What goes in a meeting room?
When designing a meeting room, you’ll want to ensure it has all the right features to foster productivity and comfort. Here’s a checklist of essentials:
- Chairs that are comfortable and ergonomic
- Table, large enough to accommodate the desired number of people
- Whiteboard, projector, or any visual aid for presentations and discussions
- Audio-visual equipment
- Video conferencing system for remote meetings
- Storage for storing meeting materials
How do you create a meeting room in an office?
Designing a meeting room might seem like a daunting task, but breaking it down into smaller steps can make it much more manageable. Keep in mind that the best course of action is always to hire an office design and fitout company like Niche Projects. We’re here to guide you through the process, including the following steps.
Identify the purpose
First, think about how the meeting room will be used. Is it primarily for internal team meetings, client presentations, or virtual conferences? The primary function of the room will influence the design, layout, and technology choices.
Pick the right location
When it comes to choosing the location of your meeting room, consider the level of foot traffic, noise levels, and accessibility. It should be in a relatively quiet part of the office but still easily accessible to all employees. Avoid placing it near noisy areas like break rooms or open-plan spaces.
Determine the perfect size
A room that’s too small will feel cramped, while a room that’s too large can feel impersonal. The size should be proportionate to the number of people using it. Keep in mind future growth; you may want to build a room that can accommodate more people than you currently need.
Fill the room with furniture and tech
Once you know what the room will be used for, it’s time to focus on furniture and tech. The furniture should suit the purpose of the room. For example, if the room is mainly used for collaborative brainstorming sessions, consider using modular tables that can be easily moved. If presentations are the main focus, set up a boardroom-style layout.
Install the necessary technology, such as audio-visual equipment, video conferencing systems, and whiteboards. Ensure that the room has sufficient power outlets, USB ports, and charging stations.
Soundproofing
This can be as simple as adding carpets, curtains, or acoustic panels to reduce noise. Soundproofing helps ensure privacy and makes sure meetings aren’t interrupted by outside distractions.
Lighting and Ventilation
Lastly, make sure the room is well-lit and ventilated. Natural light can improve focus and mood, so if possible, position the room to take advantage of windows. If not, use quality lighting that mimics daylight. Ensure that the room has proper ventilation and temperature control to keep everyone comfortable during long meetings.
Get expert office design in Sydney today
If you’re looking for the best way to take your meeting rooms to the next level, the team at Niche Projects is here to help. We know what it takes to create meeting rooms that promote better productivity and collaboration, driving business success across the board. If you’d like to discuss a project, simply contact our team today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average size of a meeting room in an office?
The average size of a meeting room depends on its intended use and the number of people it needs to accommodate. A small meeting room for four to six people might be around 14-19 square metres, while a larger boardroom for 10-12 people could range from 23-37 square metres. The general rule of thumb is to allow 2.3-2.8 square metres per person for a comfortable space.
What is the purpose of a meeting room in an office?
Meeting rooms serve as dedicated spaces for team collaboration, presentations, client meetings, and video conferences. They provide a focused environment free from distractions, allowing participants to engage fully in discussions. Whether it’s for brainstorming sessions or strategic planning, a well-designed meeting room is essential for effective communication and decision-making.
What is the best layout for a meeting room?
The ideal layout depends on how the room will be used. Here a few common layouts include boardroom style (good for formal meetings), a U-shape (ideal for presentations and open discussion), theatre style (large presentations) and classroom style, which tends to be more flexible.
How do you calculate maximum occupancy for a meeting room?
To calculate the maximum occupancy for a meeting room, you can follow this general guideline: allocate about 25-30 square feet per person. So, for a 300 square-foot room, you can comfortably fit 10-12 people. Additionally, check local building codes or fire regulations for specific occupancy limits, as they may require different calculations based on the layout, exits, and furniture setup.
