MEETING ROOM LAYOUTS THAT WORK
Seating options that will sit well with your attendees

Often called schoolroom style because it's the normal set-up when participants take notes. As with theatre-style set-ups, classroom-style is arranged with straight rows facing the front, on either side of a centre aisle. In most cases, however, it is far better to create a V-Shaped configuration by angling the tables towards the front/centre and, especially for large groups, to have two aisles for a friendlier, more intimate atmosphere. Elbow-room is vital; an eight-foot table will accommodate four chairs, but three is better if people are working with of lot of paper.

E-shaped is a variation of the U-shape to accommodate more people. Leave ample space in the centre for people to move. You need a surprisingly large room to accommodate this layout. It often results in much neck-stretching (although people at the centre table can angle themselves towards the front of the room).

A very popular configuration, often used when participants require a lot of interactive discussion. It requires a large room even for relatively small numbers.

Hexagon shape is a desirable variation of the hollow square configuration because it dramatically improves eye-to-eye contact for small groups where interaction is a factor.

Receptions for large groups of people should be organized with server bars and food stations. For a large reception where three or four bars may be set up, indicate bar locations with signs, or else people crowd the one nearest the door, leaving others virtually unused. A food station is best in the centre of the room, not in the corners (especially, if that's where the bars are).

An arrangement for small discussion groups where a chairman or moderator sits at the head. The centre row can be double tables if more space is required for note taking.

The usual set-up for large sessions where attendees listen more then participate. Avoid straight rows of chairs. Insist on arched or semi-circle arrangements to give attendees better visibility. Above all, give attendees room to shift in the chair without bumping into the person beside them. For any group larger than 100, you need an aisle, plus side access. For big convention sessions, it's best to have at least two wide aisles. Generally try to avoid a centre aisle which causes the speaker to look down a chasm.

Good for relatively small groups where attendees are expected to participate. The speaker or leader usually works for the open end of the U, though a chairman or "committee" is best at the closed end. Chairs can also be placed inside the horseshoe.