The following size guide will help you calculate the space needed in a boardroom or meeting room based on conference table sizes. Adequate planning and purchasing the right furniture is important for making a good impression on clients, customers and employees. For planning your room it is best to give between 30 & 36 inches per seat and a minimum of 3 feet or 36 inches between the table ends and the walls.
If you want a room that feels more spacious, 4-6 feet between the walls and the back of the chairs is suggested. You can request a free CAD design for your room, just let us know the dimensions of your space, how many seats you need and we will provide you with a layout of the space.
The most common conference table size is 12 FT long, while other common lengths are 8 FT and 10 FT. For small and medium size businesses this is usually more than adequate to hold meetings for 8 to 10 people. The larger the conference table, the more leafs will be required. Each leaf extends the length 2-4 Feet and the table can be extended to virtually any length you need.
Some meeting spaces may require several tables in order to accomplish the task of allowing one person to conduct a meeting in front of a large group of people. Most commonly, training tables will be arranged theatre style where 1 to 2 people can sit at each 5 – 6 FT long training table which is faced directly at the person who is giving the presentation.
Conference Table Size Guide
The recommended space on this chart is to provide you with a rough estimate as to how much room you might need to fit your conference table plus chairs and have some extra space so that the room doesn't feel over-crowded. We recommend to use your best judgement when purchasing your conference table and to not stick solely to this chart as a buying guide.
Table Size
Min. Room Size
Suggested Room Size
Seating Capacity
6 FT x 3 FT (72"x36")
12 FT x 9 FT (144"x108")
14 FT x 11 FT (168" x 132")
6 Person
8 FT x 3.5 FT (96"x42")
14 FT x 9.5 FT (168"x114")
16 FT x 11.5 FT (192" x 138")
6-8 People
10 FT x 4 FT (120"x48")
16 FT x 10 FT (192"x120")
18 FT x 12 FT (216" x 144")
8-10 People
12 FT x 4 FT (144"x48")
18 FT x 10 FT (216"x120")
20 FT x 12 FT (240" x 144")
10-12 People
14 FT x 4 FT (168"x48")
20 FT x 10 FT (240"x120")
22 FT x 12 FT (264" x 144")
10-12 People
16 FT x 4 FT (192"x48")
22 FT x 10 FT (264"x120")
24 FT x 12 FT (288" x 144")
12-14 People
18 FT x 4 FT (216"x48")
24 FT x 10 FT (288"x120")
26 FT x 12 FT (312" x 144")
14-16 People
20 FT x 4 FT (240"x48")
26 FT x 10 FT (312"x120")
28 FT x 12 FT (336" x 144")
16-18 People
22 FT x 4 FT (264"x48")
28 FT x 10 FT (336"x120")
30 FT x 12 FT (360" x 144")
18-20 People
24 FT x 4 FT (288"x48")
30 FT x 10 FT (360"x120")
32 FT x 12 FT (384" x 144")
20 People
If you are unsure about what size conference table you need, please feel free to give us a call. Let us know the dimensions of your room and how many people you need to seat and we will figure out the rest!
How to Choose the Right Conference Table Size For A Meeting Room
Choosing the right conference table size for your meeting room is crucial for creating a comfortable and productive environment. It's important to consider several factors before making your decision:
Room dimensions: Measure your room's usable floor space, taking into account doors, windows, and any other fixed features.
Number of users: How many people will typically use the conference table? Allocate a minimum of 30 inches per person for comfortable seating.
Shape of the table: You want a shape that creates a balance between space and collaboration. See more below.
Use our size guide to help you calculate the perfect conference room table for your meeting space.
How to calculate the table size you will need for your conference room
Use our size guide to help you calculate the best conference table size for your meeting space.
How much conference table space does each person get?
The recommended amount of conference table space per person depends on several factors:
Basic Needs:
Minimum: 30 inches (2.5 feet) per person provides enough space for basic comfort and note-taking.
Ideal: 36-48 inches (3-4 feet) per person allows for more comfort, better collaboration, and easier access to materials and laptops.
Other Factors:
Number of users - More users require more space.
Meeting style - Collaborative meetings require more space than presentations.
Table shape - Round tables generally require more space per person than rectangular tables.
Additional features - Power outlets, data ports, and cable management systems can take up additional table space.
Which shape of conference table holds the most people?
Rectangular: This classic shape offers ample space for spreading out materials and presentations. It's suitable for large groups but can feel formal and create a distance between participants.
Round: This option encourages collaboration and interaction as everyone can see each other easily. It's perfect for smaller groups or brainstorming sessions.
Oval: Combines the benefits of both rectangular and round tables, offering more space than a round table while still facilitating interaction.
Boat-shaped: A unique option that provides a good balance between space and collaboration. It's ideal for small to medium-sized groups.
Does a boat shaped conference table fit more people than a rectangular one?
No, boat shaped conference tables do not necessarily fit more people than rectangular ones, despite the common misconception.
While the curved sides of a boat-shaped table might seem like they offer more space, the overall perimeter is usually very similar to that of a rectangular table of the same dimensions.
The usable surface area of a boat shaped conference table can sometimes be slightly smaller than that of a rectangular conference table shape, with the same width and depth.
Racetrack or Oval Conference Tables?
Both racetrack and oval conference tables offer unique advantages and disadvantages, making the best choice for your conference room depends on several factors.
Racetrack:
Features a more pronounced curve at the ends, resembling a racetrack.
Offers slightly more surface area than an oval table of the same dimensions.
The curved ends can subconsciously guide the conversation and focus attention toward the head of the table.
Due to the pronounced curve, fitting a racetrack table in smaller spaces can be more challenging.
Oval:
Features a gentler curve, creating a more organic and flowing shape.
The absence of a defined head end fosters a more egalitarian atmosphere, encouraging equal participation from all members.
The softer curve allows the table to fit more easily into various room configurations.
Due to the smoother curve, the usable surface area might be slightly smaller than a racetrack table of the same dimensions.
What are the pros and cons of round tables
Pros of round conference tables:
Encourages participation and collaboration
Promotes creativity and brainstorming
Space efficiency
Promotes focus and attention
Aesthetically pleasing
Safer - Round tables have no sharp corners, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
Cons of round conference tables:
Limited surface area
Less suitable for presentations
May not be ideal for note-taking
Can feel cramped for larger groups
May not fit well in all spaces
How to calculate how many people can fit around the table
For rectangular tables:
The number of people per side: Divide the length of the table by the space per person.
Total seating capacity: Multiply the number of people per side by 2 (for long sides) and add the number of people who can sit at the ends (if applicable).
For round tables:
Approximate seating capacity: Divide the table's diameter by the space per person, then round down to the nearest whole number.
More precise calculation: Multiply the table's diameter by 3.14 (pi), divide by the space per person, and round down.
For oval or boat-shaped tables:
Measure the perimeter: Use a measuring tape to find the total length of the table's edge.
Divide by space per person: Divide the perimeter by the desired space per person to estimate the seating capacity.
Account for Additional Factors:
Chair size: Consider the width of the chairs to ensure they fit comfortably around the table.
Table features: Account for features like table legs, pedestals, or center supports that might reduce usable space.
Room clearance: Allow adequate space for people to move around the table and chairs comfortably.
2 people/side x 2 sides + 1 person/end = 5 people total
Round table (60 inches diameter, 30 inches per person):
60 inches / 30 inches/person = 2 people (approximate)
60 inches x 3.14 / 30 inches/person = 6.28 people (more precise)
These calculations provide estimates. Always test the actual seating arrangement to ensure comfort and accessibility for everyone.
How much space do conference chairs use?
The amount of space conference chairs use depends on several factors:
Chair dimensions -
Width: Chairs typically range from 22-26 inches wide.
Depth: Chairs typically range from 18-24 inches deep.
Back height: Chairs typically range from 36-44 inches tall.
Armrests - Chairs with armrests will require additional space on either side.
Stacking capabilities - Stacking chairs can be pushed closer together when not in use, saving space.
Chair type - Conference chairs with mesh backs may require less space than those with upholstered backs.
Recommended spacing:
Side-to-side: Allow 24-30 inches of space between chairs for comfortable seating and movement.
Front-to-back: Allow 36-48 inches of space between the back of one chair and the front of the next for easy access and legroom.
How high should a conference table be?
Most conference tables are about 30 inches (76 cm), with a tabletop thickness of 1.25 inches (3.2 cm). This height is considered ideal for most people to comfortably sit with their feet flat on the floor and work at a table without straining their arms or back.
What's the standard height of a conference table?
The standard height for a conference table is 30 inches (76 cm). With standing-height conference tables are typically between 34 and 42 inches (86 and 106 cm). This height is ideal for most people to stand comfortably and work at the table.
How Can I Fit a Conference Table in a Uniquely Shaped Room?
Fitting a full-size conference table into a uniquely shaped room can be a challenge, but it's possible with some creativity and planning. Here are some steps you can follow:
Measure and Analyze the Room
Consider Different Table Shapes and Sizes
Utilize Space-Saving Techniques
Experiment with Different Layouts
Consult with a Professional: Contact our sales team and request a free CAD design of your room.
How to plan a conference room
Planning a conference room involves several key steps to ensure a functional and productive workspace. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you:
Define Your Needs: Identify the intended use of the new conference table and room- Meetings, presentations, brainstorming sessions, training, etc.
Assess Your Space: Measure the available space accurately and identify limitations and potential challenges based on the room size and shape.
Design the Layout: Choose the right conference table, select comfortable and ergonomic chairs, and incorporate additional office furniture.
Technology Integration: Install audio/visual equipment, set up video conferencing capabilities, ensure reliable internet connectivity, and provide charging stations.
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