As businesses continue to shift to remote or hybrid work models, those that have a physical office have an advantage when it comes to defining their brand through physical space. As the first thing visitors see when they enter your office space, your reception desk plays a role in establishing your overall company’s first impression. The way that visitors, potential hiring candidates, new team members, and prospective clients feel when they enter your workplace matters, and reception desk design helps set the tone for those occasions.
Why Your Reception Desk Design Matters
A thoughtfully designed, eye-catching reception desk can convey a sense of professionalism, aesthetics, and attention to detail. How your reception area looks will communicate your company’s brand, culture, and values.
For example, a modern reception desk with clean lines and ultra-minimalist décor can suggest your company is forward-thinking and innovative. On the other hand, traditional reception desks with warm wood tones and classic, elegant furnishings send the message that your company is established and reliable.
5 Reception Desk Design Tips
Before settling on a reception desk design for your space, here are a few tips to consider:
1. Keep Your Brand Identity Front and Center
What does your company logo look like? What colors does your company use in its marketing materials? What kind of atmosphere are you trying to create in your space?
Your reception desk design should be consistent with your overall brand identity to inspire that “wow” factor you’re seeking.
2. Importance of Finishes and Materials
The materials and finishes you choose for your reception desk will have an enormous impact on its all-around look and feel.
A glass and metal reception desk, for example, creates a more modern, minimalist look. A wooden reception desk with a natural finish, on the other hand, can create a more sophisticated, warm, and inviting look.
3. Don’t Forget Functionality
For your business’s reception desk to be effective, it must provide ample space and accommodations for your receptionist to work comfortably and serve clients and visitors appropriately.
Some important considerations for functionality include: the amount of storage space required for paper documents, surface space and height, privacy and security to keep confidential information safe.
4. Add Personal Touches
Remember to add personal touches to your reception desk! Anything from fresh flowers and artwork to company awards and accolades will fit the bill. These personal touches make your reception desk feel more welcoming.
5. Try Custom
If the mass-produced desk options on the market do not meet your company needs, consider a custom reception desk. An individually crafted desk can fulfill the requirements for the size and layout of your reception space and bespoke components like materials, color, and branding.
You might even consider incorporating your logo or custom lighting into the desk itself for that extra visual impact.
How Different Reception Desk Designs Suit Different Types of Companies
As an owner or decision-maker, you know that the work you do impacts everything from your company culture to how the brand presents itself to prospective clients, visitors, and job candidates.
Here are a few examples of how different reception desk designs can hit all the right notes for different types of businesses:
Tech Forward
A company with a focus on technology and innovation might seek a modern reception desk with simple lines. The desk might be made of glass and metal, and the reception area may display a few contemporary art pieces.
Ideally, the reception area and desk for a tech-forward business will convey a sense of forward thinking and progress.
Creative
Any type of creative business needs to send the message that out-of-the-box thinking and artistic flair are intrinsic to the brand.
An eclectic reception desk design that reflects the company’s creativity and personality is key. Think reclaimed wood adorned with unique, eye-catching objects. With this kind of reception desk, a sense of whimsical fun and creativity is projected immediately.
Client Focused
For businesses that handle client affairs, especially those of a more serious nature like finance, law, or consulting, their office design must encapsulate the knowledge, expertise, and reliability of the staff within. This is where traditional reception desk designs featuring warm wood tones and classic, sophisticated furnishings help to bring that sense of manicured professionalism.
Healthcare
For medical, dental, and other specialized healthcare services, patient-focused design should take priority. This can include creating a space that promotes accessibility, privacy, and easy maintenance.
Overly ornamental or intricate designs can harbor dust and bacteria, so practical desks made with durable materials that can withstand regular cleaning are better suited to healthcare settings.
Budget Focused
For non-profit organizations or other businesses with a more modest design budget, there are options on the market that are price-competitive while still maintaining a high level of visual appeal.
Teknion’s Expansion Casegoods line, for example, is just one of the options that creates efficient, highly functional workstations without compromising comfort or aesthetics.
Choosing the Right Reception Desk Design for Your Space
In today’s increasingly online work landscape, businesses with a physical office know it’s crucial to set the right tone from the outset of any visit, interview, or meeting. When you need to send exactly the right message by creating a reception area that leaves a lasting impression, CJ & Associates can help. With a wealth of knowledge, a commitment to innovation, and an eye for detail, they specialize in tailoring designs to bring your brand’s identity to life.
Get in touch today to get started creating a space that tells the unique story of your company while ensuring every first impression is a great one.
