As hybrid working continues to reshape how and where we work, meeting spaces are evolving to keep up. Many organisations are downsizing their square footage, relying more on flexible spaces that serve multiple purposes. Meeting rooms have become some of the most valuable real estate, particularly for hotels and hospitality venues, where they are used for in-person collaboration, virtual meetings, or client presentations.
If you want to maximise the effectiveness of your boardroom or meeting area, the furniture you select plays a crucial role. Gone are the days of fixed, oversized tables and static layouts. Today, modular furniture provides the versatility that modern workplaces need to remain agile and effective.
Why Modular Furniture Makes Sense for Meeting and Boardrooms
Boardroom furniture isn’t just about function – it’s about first impressions, flexibility, and flow. The ability to quickly reconfigure your space according to the meeting’s purpose can significantly boost productivity and enhance the user experience.
Here’s why modular furniture should be top of your list:
- Versatility: Switch from a formal boardroom setup to a collaborative brainstorming session in minutes.
- Space efficiency: Foldable and stackable furniture make it easy to maximise every square metre.
- Scalability: Easily add or remove tables and chairs based on the numbers, without compromising style.
- Professional aesthetic: Modern modular furniture presents a clean and cohesive look, delivering a custom configuration that elevates each experience.
Four Smart Modular Meeting Layouts
Let’s explore four popular and effective ways to arrange your modular furniture, depending on the function and flow of your meetings:
1. U-Shaped Configuration – Ideal for Presentations and Video Calls
A U-shaped layout keeps everyone’s attention focused forward, making it an excellent choice for presentations, hybrid meetings with screens, and group discussions.
How to achieve this configuration:
This setup ensures every participant has clear sightlines to the screen and the speaker, while also promoting engagement around the table’s inner curve.
2. Square or Circular Configuration – Perfect for Collaboration
Do you need everyone to contribute equally and see each other clearly? A square or circular arrangement is ideal for group discussions, workshops, or team check-ins.
How to achieve this configuration:
This format avoids obstructed views and awkward seating, fostering a sense of equality and openness.
3. Forward-Facing Configuration – Designed for Seminars or Training
When the goal is to focus attention forward, such as during training sessions or guest speaker events, this layout delivers clean lines and uninterrupted views.
How to achieve this configuration:
Modular tables in this format provide attendees with ample space for laptops, note-taking, and other materials, creating the perfect arrangement.
4. Classic Boardroom Configuration – Flexible, Executive Style
Need a formal boardroom vibe without the commitment of a fixed, oversized table? Modular furniture can give you that polished, executive feel, with added flexibility.
How to achieve this configuration:
- 2 half-round tables (for either end)
- 4 rectangular Configure-8 Flip-Top tables
- 9 Sentrum castor chairs
You can scale this setup to accommodate small groups or large collaborative meetings by simply adjusting the number of tables and chairs.
Furniture That Works Harder (Even When Not in Use)
Modular furniture isn’t just functional when in use — it’s efficient even when it’s not. Here’s how to optimise your space between meetings:
- Folding and flip-top tables fold down flat, taking up minimal storage space.
- Stacking chairs can be easily stored in a corner or closet. Most chairs stack up to 10 high, but you can get ranges that stack up to 15.
- Partition screens, such as our Splitscreens, help conceal unused items and can also divide larger areas to create quieter spaces or more privacy.
- Whether you’re creating a flexible boardroom or a meeting hub, table and chair trolleys are key to storing and moving multiple items safely. It’s the best way to keep your stylish furniture looking pristine for longer.
Ready to Elevate Your Meeting Space?
At Burgess Furniture, we specialise in designing modular boardroom furniture that combines function, style, and flexibility. Our products are made to adapt to your needs and evolve with the way you work. Do you have questions, or are you ready to start planning your space? Contact our expert team on +44 (0)33 0333 9258, or email us at hello@burgessfurniture.com
We’d love to help you transform your meeting space into an area that works smarter, not harder.