When your clients step into your commercial space for the first time, what do they see? Is your reception area merely a waiting room, or is it a warm and inviting space that reflects your brand’s identity and values?
Your reception area is more than just a waiting room. It’s the gateway to your brand and a space that sets the tone for your company.
If your reception area isn’t doing all of that, it can and should be. Learn why reception spaces matter and how good commercial design can help you craft a dream office space with a reception area that stands out.
Why Your Reception Space Matters (a Lot!)
Your reception area is like the brand ambassador for the rest of your building. A well-designed reception area sends a message to your visitor, and you want that message to be a good one.
But it’s not just about first impressions. Your reception space also:
- Reflects your company culture. Your design choices in your reception area tell a lot about your company’s culture and values, and you want those choices to say the right thing.
- Welcomes your employees each day. A welcoming and inspiring reception area can contribute to a more positive work environment and boost employee morale.
- Showcases your brand identity. Every element can help cement your brand identity and tell a story about your company, from your logo and color scheme to the artwork and furniture.
Investing in a great reception space can positively impact the rest of your building. Not sure how to spruce up your space? Experienced commercial designers can provide ideas or partner you with our in-house interior design experts who can help.
5 Commercial Design Ideas to Make Reception Areas Stand Out
Whether renovating an existing space or planning for an all-new commercial building, these commercial design ideas can help make your reception space memorable.
1. Use Biophilic Design
People are drawn to nature. Biophilic design incorporates elements of the natural world in an indoor space. Studies on biophilic design show that bringing elements of nature into a man-made space can reduce feelings of stress and improve cognitive functions.
Embrace biophilic design in your space by:
- Incorporating live plants
- Maximizing the natural light
- Using natural materials like wood, stone, and natural fibers
2. More Bistro, Less Business
Your reception area can be much more than a desk with a phone. Many businesses are opting to give their reception areas more of a bistro feel, complete with cozy armchairs, communal tables, and an espresso machine. This makes the reception area not only a fantastic place for visitors but also an excellent place for your team to use as a breakout space, meeting area, or a place to sit and brainstorm with their teammates.
3. Design With Your Brand
Your brand identity should be clear the second someone walks through your doors. By designing with elements of your brand identity, you cement that brand in the minds of visitors and immediately make it clear what your company is all about. You can incorporate your logo, color scheme, and chosen fonts into the design of the reception area, but don’t stop there. Incorporate company awards, team photos, and mission statements to help tell your company’s story to visitors.
4. Appeal to All the Senses
The visual aesthetics of reception matter, but don’t forget to design for the rest of the senses. You can incorporate sound, touch, scent, and even taste into your reception design. Consider adding soundscapes to the space, including sounds of nature or carefully chosen ambient music. Flowers can create pleasing aromas. And offering coffee, candy, or another treat can be a great way to welcome guests and set the tone of their visit.
5. Incorporate Seamless Tech
Adding technology to your reception should be more than a gimmick. It should make the visitor experience a smoother, more enjoyable one. You might opt for digital signage that displays company information and news or welcomes visitors on a digital screen. Or implement a user-friendly sign-in system that alerts employees that their visitor has arrived. Integrating smart tech into your reception area can make a strong, positive impression on your guests.
Make a Great First Impression With Commercial Design
As one of the most trusted commercial design companies in the region, VPC Builders understands the power of a great reception space. Our team of experienced designers, builders, and project managers can help you create a space that functions flawlessly and leaves visitors with a lasting positive impression of your company.
Let’s build a space that makes a statement. When you are ready to make a great first impression on everyone who walks through your door, contact VPC Builders for a consultation. We want to learn more about your goals and explore how we can create a reception area that shines.