Your reception area is a valuable area of your office space that has the power to create the all-important first impression.
So make sure it’s a good one.
A reception area has many similarities to a stand/booth that you might find at an expo. It’s a space that is designed to be welcoming, usually has a reception desk if it’s big enough, maybe an area to display products but importantly it showcases your company’s brand.
My experience of exhibition design makes me ideally placed to provide some tips for creating a fabulous welcome for your visitors.
Some things to think about before you commence your reception redesign;
1) Logo & brand colours
First and foremost, you need your logo on your walls. Nothing too big that it’s overbearing but not too small that it gets missed. People need to know where they are, especially if you’re sharing office units with other companies.
Think about the use of 3D logos or back lit logos for added impact and compliment the walls with use of colour from your branding.
2) Flooring
There’s no use going to all this trouble of making everything look fabulous if you are treading on an old moth-eaten carpet. Consider some of the hard-wearing vinyl or laminate options for easy cleaning and maintenance.
3) Functionality
Think about functionality on a day to day basis, do you have someone manning the reception area, would a welcome touch screen be better than an empty desk? Do you have security to think about? What about functional signposting of things like toilets and drinks?
4) Showcase
Setting up a showcase for your products that is well lit and styled, provides a great opportunity for you to sell your products, don’t leave them empty or lacking inspiration, and don’t forget your awards and certificates, make sure they’re on display for all to see.
5) AV equipment
If you’re a service provider or your products are too large to put out in your reception area, you might want to consider some AV equipment to display videos or photographs. With loads of interactive options now available, you don’t have to settle for the trusty PowerPoint if you don’t want to, a corporate style video could be the right option.
6) Furniture
Your centrepiece – your reception desk – is where you could add another wow factor. Rather than opting for a standard off-the-shelf reception desk, how about having one custom made with integrated lighting and branding? That combined with some stylish visitor seating and your halfway there.
7) Lighting
Don’t underestimate the power of lighting in lifting the vibe of your reception area. Spot lighting over your showcase and reception desk or stylish light fittings can make the difference between drab and dazzling!
8) Manning
If you have a receptionist, don’t neglect them. They play a crucial role in the company’s first impression. Ensure they have the right training in customer service, they have the right workwear depending on the formality of your business and they know what to say to your clients that visit you. Make them an extension of your sales team, because they have the power to undermine all your efforts.
9) Artwork
Depending on the size of your reception area, you might want to consider artwork for your walls that reemphasises your businesses message. Liven up your blank walls with digital wallpaper or your company’s mission, vision and values.
10) Extras
Don’t forget about the extra paraphernalia to add that special little touch. Brochures, branded sweets, pens (who doesn’t love a freebie?), plants, ornaments, bookshelves, flowers & refreshments. Make it so that visitors get excited at the thought of being able to return.
