Determine your boardroom table size by first deducting 900mm to 1,200mm of clearance from the room perimeter. Then allocate 600 to 750mm of table edge per person based on the meeting duration and equipment requirements.
The most common specification mistake is selecting a table based on seating capacity before accounting for the room’s circulation space.
How much clearance is required around the table?
Allow at least 900mm and ideally 1,000 to 1,200mm of clear space between the table edge and the nearest wall or obstruction. This ensures participants can push back from the table and move freely around the room without hitting walls.
How much table space is needed per person?
Allocate a minimum of 600 to 700mm of table edge per person. For longer meetings where participants use laptops and documents, 700 to 750mm per person is more comfortable.
Which table shape suits the room layout?
Rectangular tables are space-efficient for high capacity and suit formal hierarchies. Round tables are best for smaller groups of 6 to 8 people where equal participation is the goal and there is no head of the table.
What options exist for small rooms with high seating needs?
Use expandable table systems or U-shape configurations to increase capacity within a limited footprint. In some cases, the room capacity must be reduced if it cannot physically accommodate the required table size.
How to finalise your boardroom layout
Use Progressive Office’s free CAD space planning to verify all clearances before committing to a purchase. You can also view the full range of commercial tables at our Kilsyth or Knoxfield showrooms.
Frequently asked questions
Are square tables suitable for boardrooms?
No, square tables are not ideal for boardrooms because they do not provide enough legroom for people to sit comfortably.
What percentage of the room should the table occupy?
A boardroom table should fill between 75 percent and 80 percent of its room.
What are the typical dimensions for boardroom tables?
Boardroom tables generally range between 1.5 meters and 2.4 meters.
Questions to ask your supplier before you buy
- Can you provide a CAD floorplan to confirm that the table maintains a minimum 900mm perimeter clearance?
- Does the table offer expandable options if my seating requirements change for larger board meetings?
- Is the table available in a finish like laminate or timber veneer to match my existing office style?
