Understanding Your Space and Visitor Journey
Your reception area needs to look inviting and function smoothly from the moment someone walks in. Before buying anything, map out how people will move through the space.
Start by measuring the room, including doorways, windows, and any awkward corners. Note where power points, data ports, and lighting are located so you can position your Reception Counters without blocking access. Think about where guests will stand, sit, wait and interact with staff, then sketch a basic floor plan that shows the most natural flow.
Consider the types of visitors you host most often: clients, patients, suppliers or job candidates. A corporate office may need a streamlined entry with a prominent Straight Reception Counter to manage check-ins efficiently. Medical and community services might benefit from more open layouts, softer seating and clear sightlines so people feel comfortable and supported.
Also plan for privacy and noise. Position workstations behind your main desk so confidential conversations aren’t easily overheard, and allow enough distance between the counter and Reception Seating to avoid crowding. Defining zones for arrival, waiting and departure will help the space feel organised rather than chaotic.
Choosing the Right Reception Counter Style
The reception counter is usually the first thing people notice, so it needs to be both practical and on-brand. Style, size and shape all influence how professional your business appears.
If you need extra workspace, storage and room to serve multiple visitors at once, consider L-Shaped Reception Counters. Their angled design makes it easy for staff to access computers, phones and files without cluttering the front surface. In a smaller office or studio, a streamlined unit from the Straight Reception Counters range can deliver a clean look while still offering the essentials.
Think about height as well. A higher front panel on your Reception Counters can hide paperwork and cabling from view, keeping the area tidy. Lower sections or cut-outs are useful for accessibility, making it easier for wheelchair users to interact with your team comfortably and respectfully.
Material and finish should reflect your brand. Timber or timber-look laminates often feel warm and welcoming, while white or black counters with sharp lines suit modern, minimalist interiors. Whatever you choose, keep the design consistent with other elements in the space, including your Side Tables and Coffee Tables, so the whole area feels cohesive rather than pieced together.
Selecting Comfortable and Durable Seating
Your visitors may only sit for a few minutes, but uncomfortable seating leaves a lasting negative impression. Aim for chairs that are supportive, durable and suited to your clientele.
Start by mixing different types of Reception Seating so people can choose what suits them best. Standard Visitor Chairs with ergonomic back support are ideal for short stays and high turnover areas. For a more relaxed feel in creative or boutique spaces, add a few Tub Chairs that encourage visitors to settle in without looking too casual.
Where you expect groups or peak waiting times, Beam Seating is a smart choice. The linked design keeps the layout neat and prevents individual chairs from drifting out of place, reducing trip hazards and cleaning time. Beam units are also easier to position along walls, helping you maximise limited floor space.
If you want to signal a more premium or lounge-like environment, introduce a few Single Lounges to create comfortable pockets away from the main flow. Upholstery should be easy to clean, especially in healthcare and hospitality settings, and darker tones or patterned fabrics can help hide everyday wear. Always test seat height and depth, ensuring people of different sizes can sit and stand without strain.
Adding Functional Tables and Surfaces
Well-placed tables make your reception more usable and polished. They give visitors somewhere to put bags, drinks and paperwork while they wait.
A central piece from the Coffee Tables range can anchor your seating area and provide a home for magazines, brochures or a subtle branding display. Choose a size that fits the scale of your room: too large and it becomes an obstacle, too small and it looks lost among the furniture. Rounded corners can also reduce bumps in tighter waiting rooms.
Complement the main table with practical Side Tables placed next to Single Lounges, Visitor Chairs or Tub Chairs. These smaller surfaces are ideal for personal items, water glasses or a small plant that softens the room. Keeping surfaces clutter-free with simple, curated items helps your reception feel intentional rather than messy.
Match the materials and colours of your tables with your Reception Counters and seating frames for a unified look. For example, pairing timber-look Coffee Tables with metal-legged Beam Seating can blend warmth and durability. Durable finishes and sturdy construction are essential in busy Australian offices where surfaces are used daily by a wide range of visitors.
Balancing Style, Branding and Practicality
A standout reception feels like a natural extension of your brand, not an afterthought. Aim for a balance between visual impact and everyday usability.
Start by defining a simple colour palette that reflects your logo and marketing materials, then apply it consistently across your Reception Seating, Reception Counters, Coffee Tables and accessories. Neutral base tones such as white, charcoal or light oak allow you to introduce brand colours through upholstery, artwork and feature walls without overwhelming the space. Good lighting, clear signage and tidy cabling all contribute to a professional first impression.
Function should never be sacrificed for looks. Ensure your chosen L-Shaped Reception Counters or Straight Reception Counters have adequate storage to keep the front area uncluttered. Select robust fabrics and finishes on Visitor Chairs, Beam Seating, Tub Chairs and Single Lounges so your reception continues to look fresh even with high traffic.
Finally, think ahead. Choose modular pieces and flexible layouts that can adapt as your business grows, whether that means adding more Reception Seating or reconfiguring the space for new services. By planning for both present needs and future changes, you’ll create a reception area that consistently welcomes visitors, supports your team and showcases your brand at its best.
