Room layout/configuration is the key to creating the perfect space for your function or event. Whether you are planning a brainstorming session, lecture, networking event, or a family party the layout for your event will keep the attendees productive, and attentive.

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There are normally four basic layouts you can choose from to determine which works best for your event or meeting.  Do your participants need to take notes or eat? Do they need to interact with each other? Do they need to listen attentively to a lecture or presenter? Having a basic idea of what your meeting or event entails will allow you to decide what layout works best for your function.

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Banquet Layout

Events that serve meals and contain small group discussion often utilize the banquet style layout.  In this layout, round or square tables are used with seating all around. An alternative to this style is the crescent round layout in which the chairs only go partly around the table to provide the attendees with a better view of a stage or presentation area.

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Classroom Layout

The classroom layout is laid out similarly to a classroom. In this layout, several rows of tables and chairs are arranged so they face the front of the room.  This layout is perfect for meetings that include presenters or lectures.  Note-taking and laptops can easily be incorporated into this layout. The classroom space also provides plenty of space for handouts.

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Auditorium/Theater Layout

The theater/auditorium layout is similar to the classroom but without the tables. Seats can be arranged in rows so that all face a single focal point. The chairs can be arranged in straight, circular, semi-circle, or v-shape patterns to fit within the footprint of the room.  This layout is normally used when there are informal lectures which require no note-taking.  This is an ideal layout to accommodate a large group of attendees. Normally in this layout there is a head table or a stage as the focal point of the chairs.

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Conference Layout

There are various layouts that fall into this category. Each of these allow attendees to freely communicate and interact with one another.

• Boardroom - This layout is perfect for smaller groups and involves one rectangular (or multiple tables together) to form a solid table.  Chairs are placed around the table allowing the attendees to face each other and participate in discussions and meetings.  This works best when there are no visual presentations.

• U-Shaped - Several tables are arranged in the shape of a "U" with all the chairs placed on the outside of the "U".  This layout works well if you have a main presenter but also need your participants to interact with each other.

• Hollow Square - Tables are arranged into a square with all chairs around the outside of the square. This works well if ther is a panel of individuals that all must be at the head of the table.

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