Reception Desk Basics

Reception desks come in a variety of shapes and sizes.  Choosing the best configuration for you depends on your office space, and the needs of your business.

 Bridgeport Reception Desk, Edeskco

Reception Desk Shapes

There are many modern reception desk design shapes such as rectangular, circular, or semi-circular.  Depending on your needs, reception desks can be made larger to accommodate multiple receptionists and guests at the same time.

            

Neo-Berlin Large Reception Desk, Edeskco

            

Ares Reception Desk, Edeskco

If you have certain size restrictions, or if you have a unique space to work with, it may be best to  go with a customizable reception desk.  That way you are able to make it to your exact specifications, and do not have to settle for a standard reception desk that won't work perfectly within your space.

Reception Desk Accessories

There are also many accessories that you are able to add to your desk.  Add-ons such as a pedestal or storage cabinet, is a good solution for additional storage needs. 

*Edeskco add-on options.  From left to right:  3 Drawer Pedestal, 2 Door Storage Cabinet, and 2 Door Lateral File Cabinet

You are also able to add options such as a return or a bridge to your reception desk.  If your receptionist requires more work space, this would be a good option to consider.  Returns are also able to used for ADA requirements.  Please keep in mind that ADA Requirements are based upon local governance.  It is best to check local legislation to find out what the regulations are in your area before ordering your desk.

                   

            *Pictured left to right:  an example of a right return and a right bridge

Reception Desk Materials

Our modern reception desks have a variety of materials to choose from, and can be extremely customizable.  Our reception desks are made with real wood veneer, painted MDF in satin or high gloss lacquer finish, melamine, tempered glass, and chrome steel/ stainless steel/ aluminum which enables us to serve your needs.

        

            *Examples of our finishes. From left to right: Walnut & Maple veneer finishes, High Gloss Black & White finishes, and Dark Grey and Black Wood Paint finishes

Reception desk counters are typically made with wood or glass.  Glass tends to be more durable,  although a wood veneer finish can have a very refined look.

There are many things to consider when looking at a reception desk.  To simplify the process, it is best to determine essential items such as the size and shape first.  You can then decide on additional factors such as add-ons, materials, and style.

What Color Should your Office Be?

When you imagine a typical office, you will most likely picture an office with white or neutral walls.  However some studies have shown that white or neutral walls create dreariness, and a lack of energy or excitement for employees.  Therefore research has been done to investigate what colors are best for your office space, and what the characteristics are of each.

 

BLUE 

Blue is known as the universal color for productivity, because of its stable and calm nature.  Many find that their focus increases in a blue room versus other colors, and in turn they find that their day is much more productive.  Blue inspires the mind by promoting concentration.

 
 
 
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RED

An influential color, red stimulates the pulse and can raise blood pressure. It has been said to be a very good color for detail oriented tasks, as well as a good color for any job that involves any physical activity.



YELLOW

Well known as an optimistic color, yellow creates energy and inspires the imagination.  This color is best suited for designers or employees who require creativity as a main part of their job.  Use yellow sparingly, however, as too much yellow can cause anxiety.

 

 

 

 

 

GREEN

Green is a very calming color that promotes harmony and balance.  A reason for this is because green is a very prevalent color in our natural environment.  This is a good color to use for those who tend to work long hours, as it defuses stress.

 

 

 

A Guide to Desk Returns

If you are not familiar with desks or returns, trying to decide on a desk configuration may seem like a complicated task.  This is especially true if you are the one entrusted with the responsibility of selecting your office's furniture.  To make this process less stressful, we have put together some helpful guidelines to help you select the desk configuration that will work best for you.

 A desk return is the part of the desk that attaches to the main desk, and extends outward to one side.  On a U Desk, this can often be referred to as the bridge.  There are three types of desk returns: left return, right return, and reversible.  To determine a left or right return, envision yourself sitting at your desk.  If the return is on your left side, it is considered a left return.  If the return is on your right side, it is considered a right return.  Finally, a reversible return means that the return is able to be configured on either side of the desk.

             

*Courtesy of ADT American

Determining what type of return would work best for you often depends on your preference.  In some cases, however, there are room restraints that may force you to only be able to go with a left or right return.  The type of return you select also tends to correspond with your dominant hand.  For example, if you are right handed, it may be best for you to select a right return for your desk.

 

Lastly, it is also important to keep in mind the overall dimension of the desk you are looking at.  The depth of the main desk plus the length of the return equals the overall dimension of the return.  For a U-Desk,  the total depth is equal to the length of the bridge plus the depth of the main desk, plus the depth of the credenza.

Gavin Executive Desk, EDESKCO

 

If you still have questions regarding your desk configuration, or you are unsure of what desk return would work best for you, please call our qualified staff at (800)-376-0652. 

Uncommon and Unique Conference Table Designs

Here at  Executive Desk Company, we are truly proud of our designs and ability to customize any of our contemporary conference tables.  For a little fun, we decided to take a look at designs around the world to see what other unique conference table ideas are out there:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Swing Table by Duffy London

Adding a playful element to the traditional conference table design, is the "Swing Table" by Duffy London.  Supported by four posts, each seat moves freely much, like a swing set.  Made from walnut and oak with steel beams.  According to the manufacturer, "also makes vacuuming a breeze."  We can only imagine!

 

 

 

 

Polypod Conference Table by OMC Design Studios

This impressive table has 100 metal tube legs, with a solid wood tabletop.  Although this boardroom table has the illusion of being foldable, it is not.  Still an impressive and fun design in our eyes!

 

 

 

 

 

Cat Grass Table by Emily Wettstein

This unique table was created by Emily Wettstein, a 25-year-old designer from Brooklyn, NY.  Why not bring the outdoors to the comfort of your inside office environment?  The center part includes a removable planter, and therefore you are able change to a different plant of your choosing.  The tabletop is made of solid walnut with steel legs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Illusory Dripping Paint Table by John Nouanesing

Though only a concept at this point and not currently in production, we would love to see this table design by John Nouanesing come to life.

 

 

 

 

 

Viking Conference Table by Wildetecture

A South African architectural firm, Wildetecture, designed this bold Viking inspired piece.  If you're looking to invade and conquer from the comfort of your conference room, this may be the right table for you.

These office conference tables help bring a new meaning to the word creative.  What do you think of these innovative designs?  Feel free to post your comments below.

How to Create a Successful Conference Room

Planning for your conference room, and researching the furniture you select for that room, is essential.  A well thought out conference room will ensure that you will make the right impression on your clients and coworkers by making your meetings and other activities look organized and professional. 

Modern conference rooms are used for a variety of functions, although most of us picture a conference room being used exclusively for meetings.  However, they can also be used for training exercises, company functions, coaching, as well as conducting interviews.  Depending on what types of functions you plan to use your conference room for will help determine how to set up your room, and what type of furniture you will need.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

POLAND CONFERENCE ROOM TABLE, Edeskco

 

Size of your Conference Room

Getting an accurate measurement of your space is crucial to planning your conference room.  You do not want to assume, and end up with a conference room table that is too big or too small for your space.  Generally you will need a space of 36"-42" around the size of your conference table to allow for movement of chairs, and for people to be able to walk comfortably around the room.  For example, if you have a 14 foot by 14 foot room, you would be able to fit a 8 foot by 8 foot conference room table, but nothing bigger.  If you are planning to incorporate other furniture in your conference room such as a credenza or podium, you may want to consider a smaller table.

 

Types of Conference Room Tables

There are many different types of conference room tables.  Find out which type would work best for you:

Oval

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JESSE OVAL CONFERENCE TABLE, Edeskco

Oval shaped or racetrack tables have rounded corners that allow for more seating capacity and easier movement.  They can also be ideal for smaller rooms as the curved sides take up less room than a square or rectangular conference room table.

 

Rectangular

 

 

 

 

 

 

GAVIN CONFERENCE ROOM TABLE, Edeskco

This is probably the most popular shape for a conference table with its clean and elemental shape.  This type of shape will fit well in a medium to large sized rooms.

Boat Shaped

 

 

 

 

 

 

GILL-A CONTEMPORARY CONFERENCE TABLE, Edesko

This popular shape has become more of a beneficial option due to sight lines.  Because it is wider in the middle, your audience does not sit straight in a row.  This makes it easier to see presentations, screens, as well as other colleagues.

Whatever option you choose, make sure to research and find out what will work best for you within your space.  The purchase of conference room furniture can be intimidating at first, but with the right measurements and research, you will end up with a conference room that works well for you and your company.

 

 

 

 

https://www.edeskco.com/gill-a-contemporary-conference-table.cfm

Tips to Keep Your Office Furniture Looking Brand New

Furniture for your office can be quite a large investment, and you want to make sure that  investment lasts.  Having a clean office with well maintained professional office furniture creates a positive environment for your employees, and especially a good impression for potential clients.  Incorporating the following habits will make your furniture last for years to come.

Take Proper Care of Wood Veneer

·         Often we will get questions on how to take care of a wood veneer desk, and what cleaning products to use.  The best way to clean and maintain your executive desk or other office furniture is to clean all surfaces regularly with a water dampened soft cloth; and to make sure to always wipe with the grain.  Avoid using any cleaning products that have an oil base. 

·         Make sure to clean spills right away.  Liquids can cause warping or ripples in wood if they're allowed to settle in to your furniture. .

·         Avoid exposing furniture to extreme heat or cold; also avoid wide humidity variance.

·         Lift Objects to remove them; never pull them across the surface.

 

Take Proper Care of your Leather

 

·         Avoid keeping furniture in direct sunlight, as it can cause fading.

·         For regular cleaning, remove as much soil or staining as possible by carefully vacuuming or brushing, then dust with a dry or damp cloth.

·         Do not use abrasive cleaners or cleaners that are alcohol based.  You must clean only with cleaners that are specifically designed for cleaning leather surfaces.

 

Make sure to also create a work culture that places an emphasis on cleanliness and organization.  Using these simple steps will help protect your furniture, and extend its life for many years to come. 

How to Choose the Right Wood Color for your Office Furniture

When choosing a wood veneer color for your professional office furniture, many will want to automatically choose what is most pleasing to the eye.  However, there are a few more things to consider when selecting the color for your office furniture.  The color of the wood finish on your furniture can mean the difference between a bright, airy office that embodies a more casual atmosphere, or a more traditional office that brings respectability and corporate class. 

Ash:  If you are trying to convey a more modern and contemporary office, Ash is a popular choice for your executive desk and other professional office furniture.  Be sure to create lighter surroundings around your furniture, such as lighter colored walls or flooring.

 Ash qms-24

 

 

 

 

Cherry:  If you are trying to keep a more distinguished and traditional look to your office, you may want to consider a Cherry color.  Cherry has a red tint to it, giving it a vibrant appearance. 

    Cherry qms-86

 Cherry qms-96

 

 

 

 

 

 

Maple & Walnut:  If you would like a more relaxed and fresh feeling to your office, consider a maple or walnut color.  This colors often convey a more home-like atmosphere, and  can make your employees and clients feel welcome into your office with its familiar feeling.

   Maple qms-21

Walnut qms-18

 

 

 

 

Whether you are looking for a more traditional or a more modern look, always make sure to carefully consider your choices before selecting your wood veneer color.  Executive Desk Company  always offers free samples of our wood veneer colors upon request.