The reception area of any business or organisation is so much more than merely a practical space in which to receive visitors to your premises. This is where impressions are created… and impressions last. And at the centre of this is your reception counter. This, however, does not mean you need to aim for the most elaborate or flashy desk you can find. Selecting the right reception desk is a much more subtle and layered process than that.
Three ways in which your choice of reception counter influences your brand image
Ultimately, the primary function of a reception counter is to provide a space where you receive visitors. The design of the desk should thus first and foremost consider the visitor’s experience. It shouldn’t take over the room and make the space feel cramped. There should be enough space for visitors to move comfortably. And it should provide the necessary space if you expect visitors to sign in, complete forms, or finalise transactions.
This can also be seen as an extension of the visitor experience. Your receptionist is often the face of your company, and they spend the majority of the day performing their assigned duties behind the reception counter. As such, they must have the necessary space and support to do their work. This ensures a less stressful and more enjoyable work environment, which affects the receptionist’s interaction with the visitors.
The look of your reception counter will also play a role. Typically, solid wood desks will create a more established and formal atmosphere. Modern, quirky designs create an impression of creativity and innovation. Sleek, steel designs suit the image of a tech or engineering company. There is no one right answer. Determine what the image of your business is and choose a style that reflects that.
Here are a few factors to consider before you invest in a new desk for your reception area:
Don’t set out thinking that you’ll know whether you can afford it when you see something you like. There are many options out there, and a budget does not only keep your finances in check but provide you with a way of narrowing your search. Choose the amount that suits your pocket and choose from the options available to you in that price range. There will be enough options available, and you can always adjust your budget if you find it to be necessary.
This will help you when you need to choose between options. Should the desk accommodate more than one receptionist? Do they need storage space? Should it be able to house a point of sale system or computer(s)? Should there be a surface for visitors on which they can complete forms or sign in? Use this as a checklist.
Know the dimensions of the room where the reception desk must go, but also remember to take the rest of the furniture and space for walking into consideration. Also take note of whether the desk will be placed in a corner, next to an entrance or exit, or against a wall.
Darker colours can make a space appear smaller. A white or very light desk, on the other hand, might show dirt marks very easily if it had to endure a lot of traffic. Make sure the colour you choose goes with the rest of the items in the room, and suits your brand colours, if applicable.
A quality reception desk is a specialised piece of furniture. Make sure you shop with a supplier that is experienced in dealing with office furniture, and who can offer you a wide range of solutions. Furthermore, you want to be sure that they can deliver the reception counter to your premises, wherever you are in the country, and also install it for you, if necessary.
If you are about to shop for a new reception desk, head over to the Quantum Office Furniture catalogue. We’ve been supplying local businesses with quality, affordable office furniture for two decades. We also offer space planning and installation services to ensure that your workspace is transformed and ready for you in no time.