The first step in designing a welcoming reception area will always be choosing the best chairs, but this is easier said than done. Many companies today still focus solely on aesthetics when selecting seats for their waiting areas. While this may result in amazing and eye-catching chairs, some guests may feel cramped or uncomfortable when sitting on them. To ensure you don’t end up in this boat, here are some top tips to reflect on when deciding on which chairs you want in your reception.
Comfort at the Forefront
Comfort should always be your top priority when picking chairs for your waiting area. This need for comfort means all seats you choose for your reception should use soft and breathable materials with good back support. You should also ensure some of your chairs include ergonomic features like armrests, cushioned seats, and lumbar support.
Once your guests feel comfortable, they will feel at home in your reception and may even be happy to wait for longer. Comfortable guests are also less likely to be grumpy and walk up to your staff demanding how much longer it would take before they attend to them. So, having comfy chairs will always go a long way in creating a satisfying visitor experience.
Your Chairs Should Be Easy to Clean
The last thing anybody wants to do is to walk into a reception area and sit on dirty chairs. Filthy seats can make your customers feel uncomfortable and give them a horrible impression of your company. While ensuring that your reception chairs are regularly wiped and dusted will go a long way, you can make things easier for everyone by only selecting seats with easy-to-clean materials that do not retain dirt.
Be Inclusive
Never assume that everybody who walks into your reception is a size 0. Humans are diverse and each person has a unique body type. Although you cannot cater to every individual, you should always select chairs that accommodate a wide range of body sizes and shapes. In essence, Michael Jordan should feel as comfortable in your reception as Simone Biles.
Leave Room for Personal Space
Personal space will always be important, even in a reception. While you may want to maximize capacity, placing chairs too close together can make people feel cramped. This is why it is crucial to strike a balance between the number of chairs in your reception and the level of spacing you provide.
To do this, you can try to include multiple seating arrangements in your reception instead of opting for only one seat style. Doing this can help create a flexible environment where guests can choose any chair that matches their comfort level.
The Right Chairs Will Make Your Guests Feel at Home
Crafting the best possible seating experience for your guests should always be on your mind when designing your reception. Beyond plain aesthetics, ensuring that your chairs are comfortable and inclusive and provide enough personal space will go a long way in ensuring anyone who visits your office walks out of your doors feeling happy and satisfied instead of angry and grumpy. This attention to detail will also help leave a long-lasting impression that sets a positive tone for your business.