Welcome and Reception:
Welcome and reception areas are the first spaces someone sees when they enter a building; especially, for the first time. That’s why it’s important to use furniture in these spaces that is inviting and leaves a positive impression. Try to incorporate soft seating that draws people in to the space. Don’t forget the impact that lighting can play in making a space inviting. It is also nice to consider some sort of service area to make people feel welcome.


Common Spaces:
Common areas are similar to welcome and reception areas in that they should also be inviting. However, common areas should be designed to accommodate larger groups of people. As you can imagine, more people means more furniture needs and preferences. Consider a variety of seating and table options in common areas so individual work styles can be addressed. Vary the heights of tables and offer a blend of café and soft seating in the space and you’ll commonly find people in the common areas.


Private Spaces:
Private areas are the place for heads down, focused work, so these individual spaces should be designed to maximize productivity. Be sure to include ample worksurface space and easy access to a variety of storage.  Extended surfaces and overhead storage give a person more room to spread out and work.. Private offices should also have task chairs that accommodate an all day sit to ensure the worker is comfortable.


Collaborative Areas:
Collaborative areas should bring people together and offer a break from individual heads down work, while allowing people to be productive. Consider integrating collaborative areas alongside individual workstations. Try to include worksurfaces that can be used to lay out documents and soft seating. Also consider lightweight, easy-to-move furniture (i.e. cushions or seating and markerboards with casters) for a flexible, fun way for people to meet.


In which type of space do you work best and why?