When designing or upgrading your rooms, focus on key features that make meetings more productive. The right room layout and technology provide employees with an effective meeting and brainstorming space. Audiovisual integration, smart room control systems, and video conferencing capabilities optimize your space for presentation and collaboration. Here are nine top features to look for in a modern conference room:
Seating Area
Some rooms offer comfortable seating, which is reconfigured based on what is needed. Round tables facilitate collaboration by allowing participants to view one another, and standing-height tables foster movement. Modular conference tables enable groups to configure seating arrangements for presentations, small huddles, or open discussions. Movable ergonomic chairs on casters let attendees shift around the room.
Acoustic Treatments
Noise distraction during meetings hampers focus, so your conference room may require walls and ceilings with acoustic panels that absorb sound. Sound-dampening materials include fabric-covered fiberglass or foam panels. Choose “picture frame” style panels that mount like artwork for a more attractive look. Acoustic clouds hanging from ceilings also diffuse ambient noise. Seal any cracks around windows, doors, or vents that allow sound intrusion.
Lighting Options
Lighting infuses energy into meetings and helps participants better see presentations. Overhead recessed lighting on dimmers can be used to adjust brightness during video calls or slideshows. Trendy but glare-free hanging lights above the table illuminate work materials. LED task lighting is installed on the table’s surface to spotlight documents. Place floor lamps in seating areas rather than a harsh overhead glow.
Internet Connectivity
Wireless connectivity enables collaboration. Invest in Commercial-grade WiFi with steady high speeds and strong signal reach. Verify that connections support many simultaneous users. Configure the network with Quality of Service controls to prioritize video conferencing traffic. Add enough Ethernet ports around the room’s perimeter to plug in without tangled cables.
Display Technology
Visual learners take advantage of display technology by providing the ability to share content. Wall mount flat panel displays to give multi-media displays or presentations. Choose the right display size per room dimensions and seating arrangements so that every participant can view it. Provide for the installation of digital whiteboards with touch screens in interactive meetings. Displays with a 4K resolution help avoid pixelization.
Power Access
Install wall outlets several feet apart, outlets anchored in floor boxes, and outlets integrated into tables. Use tables with grommets for wire management. Add fast-charging USBs to floor boxes to provide easy charging options for guests’ devices. Many well-placed outlets will keep meetings on track and free from distractions.
Natural Light
Natural light enhances focus and energy. You may include windows and skylights in your design plan. Add shades to help eliminate glare or subdued brightness if needed. If the room does not have exterior windows, bring the outdoors inside with live plants and nature photography. Maximize natural elements to create inviting spaces.
Room Size
Optimizing room size boosts collaborative synergy. Your room must be well-sized for your team’s needs by allowing at least enough square feet per person for comfort and easy movement. Include extra space around seating areas and built-in AV equipment to promote a productive environment.
Breakout Areas
Some meetings benefit from splitting into smaller breakout groups. Designate corners or alcoves as mini meeting zones with a table and chairs conducive to focused huddles. Equip these with whiteboards, video screens, or tech tools for sub-group tasks. Having breakout areas within your main room adds flexibility.
Upgrade Your Conference Room Today.
When designing your room, evaluate how groups may use the space. Upgrading your company’s conference room to include the latest innovations enhances productivity, engagement, and satisfaction. From -edge AV systems to design details to the right improvements, create a hub for collaboration and innovation. Renovate your room now to accommodate your preferred features.
