Ask These 7 Questions Before Buying A New Conference Table:

 

Purchasing a new conference table should be a fun and exciting experience for your business. To get the most out of this process, it's important to ask the essential questions necessary to determine the table that's right for your specific needs. In today's post we'll share the 7 questions any conference table shopper should ask before making a final decision.

1.) What size table is right for my space?

To determine the correct size conference table for your meeting area, you must first obtain accurate dimensions of your space. Start by measuring the perimeter of your conference room. Be sure to notate the electrical outlets, entry ways, and windows. Based on your dimensions, you'll want to select a table that fits accordingly while leaving plenty of room for conference room chairs and accent furniture as well as room to walk around comfortably. Rest assured, a crowded conference room space does not leave an excellent impression on guests!

2.) How many guests do I want to accommodate?

When shopping for conference tables it's important consider how many guests you hope to accommodate comfortably. While the average response is "as many as possible", a simple formula will help you determine how many can sit at a table based on it's size. On average, you'll want to use around 3' of space per person. For example, a 6' conference table will sit 2 users comfortably per side. A 10' conference table will accommodate 3 users comfortably per side, and so on. Be sure to take into account the dimensions of your selected chairs to confirm. In most cases you can also add 2 additional guests at the table ends depending on the shape of table you choose.

3.) What table shapes are best for my area?

Conference and boardroom tables come in a variety of shapes. While smaller meeting areas typically use round and square top tables, larger areas can benefit by using racetrack, boat shaped, elliptical, and rectangular styles. Racetrack tables feature an oval top design (or racetrack shape) that allows users to sit comfortably around the natural curvature of the tables top. Boat shaped tables feature curved sides and square off ends. This style typically used by businesses looking to sit guests at the table ends. Elliptical tables offer a sophisticated modern look that's highlighted by curved ends that come to a point. This style is ideal for contemporary meeting areas and spaces with narrow design characteristics.

4.) What brands offer the best conference tables?

You'll be at no shortage of quality office furniture manufacturers to choose between when shopping for your new conference table. That being said, you can never go wrong with any of the big three! Mayline, Cherryman Industries, and Global Total Office all offer excellent conference tables from a variety of full service collections that include the matching accent furniture needed to complete your full boardroom makeover project with a cohesive look.

5.) What should I spend on a new conference table?

It's very important to set a respectable budget for your conference room makeover project. The price of your new table will vary depending on the style, brand, size, and features. Basic 6' conference tables can be purchased for as little as $350.00, while high end wood veneer tables can range well into the thousands. Before starting the shopping process, work with your team to determine a price point your comfortable with. This will prevent falling in love with a table that leaves your business over extended. Be sure to inquire with you dealer of choice about current specials, free shipping, bulk discounts, and coupons for additional savings.

6.) What finish should I choose?

Office furniture finishes like cherry, mahogany, maple, and walnut will always be popular options for the conference room. These classic tones can be used effectively in both modern and traditional meeting environments. In 2014, trending tones like mocha, espresso, gray, and white have burst onto the scene. Those looking to achieve a cutting edge conference room look will want to shop for tables with these hot finish options!

7.) When do I need my table by?

While most brands offer in stock conference room table options that ship within a few business days, others provide made to order products that take several weeks to manufacture. Based on your project completion deadline, inquire with your dealer of choice about which models and brands will be right for you.

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September 2014: Popular Conference Table Trends Revealed

September has come with a ton of exciting new conference room design trends that we just had to share! From powered tables to elliptical tops, this month is shaping up to be a big one in the office furniture community. Check out today's article and take your boardroom to the next level!

Powered Conference Tables

This year we've seen awesome new advances in the world of powered conference tables. Once thought of as an expensive luxury, power modules are now becoming the industry standard. Brands like Mayline, Lesro Industries, and Global Total Office are offering high tech boardroom tables that are ready to meet the demands of any modern meeting. Tables like the new Z48144BE Zira model are available with a seemingly unlimited offering of inputs that include HDMI, HD, phone, USB, and more. If your considering a conference room makeover this year, you've gotta add power!

Glass Conference Tables

If you're looking to make a statement with your boardroom, a glass conference table is the only way to go. Brands like OFM are now offering quick shipping glass conference tables in a variety of sizes to meet the needs of any space. These stylish meeting area solutions feature contemporary metal legs that provide an industrial feel that's quite impressive. Glass conference tables are great for areas limited on space as the clear meeting surfaces provide a neutral look that makes any work environment look bigger. This trend is here to stay!

Dark Wood Conference Tables

Finishes like cherry, mahogany, and maple will always have their place. However, this year darker tones are in! Finish options like espresso, black cherry, and mocha show minimal wear and offer high end appeal that's hard to beat. If you're purchasing a new conference table in 2014, consider a darker finish and stay up to date with the hottest design trends.

Modular Conference Tables

Modular conference room tables are just plain cool! These versatile boardroom solutions help to create multi purpose work environments that can reconfigure easily when needed. Brands like Global Total Office offer out of this world modular conference tables from collections like the Bungee and Junction series. These fully functional table sets can form a variety of neat layouts to help maximize your various work environments.

Elliptical Conference Tables

Tired of the traditional oval, rectangular, and boat shaped conference tables of the past? You're in luck! This year, elliptical conference room tables are taking over. The curved sided design offers a sleek look that works well in contemporary meeting areas. Elliptical conference room tables help maximize square footage with their slimming characteristics.

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Maximize Your Lobby Potential With An Effective Furniture Layout!

All too often businesses feel they are in need of more space to seat lobby guests and improve decor. However, this is commonly the cause of a poor furniture and seating layout. While your typical lounge furniture setups including a sofa, love seat, and settee look great, they are far from effective for those businesses looking to accommodate large numbers of guests while staying up to date with the latest design trends! In today's post we'll highlight popular seating layouts, product suggestions, and configuration ideas to help any business maximize seating potential and style!

Perimeter Seating Layout

The perimeter seating layout provides an open feel by utilizing the lobby border. This popular layout can be achieved by using gang style guest seating, beam chairs, and even individual lounge chairs for added comfort. Simply measure the perimeter of your space to determine the number of chairs that will fit effectively and proceed accordingly. If your space is not in the form of a basic rectangle, you may need to consider using modular seating like the UNO series from OFM to flow with the curvature of your space. Add stylish accent tables to the center of your seating configuration for enhanced corporate appeal.

Horizontal Seating Rows

This popular lobby seating style is great way to maximize the number of guests that can sit comfortably within a space. The horizontal rows can be configured using bench style seating in a back to back approach. If space is limited, you may not have the ability to add tables between each row. That being said, using a beam seating configuration with integrated tables will show your design ingenuity and visitor appreciation to perfection. Brands like OFM and Global Total Office offer a wide range of versatile product solutions for businesses looking to take the horizontal seating approach.

Vertical Seating Rows

Depending on the entry points of your lobby, the horizontal guest seating approach may not be visually appealing to your or your guests. If this is the case, using a vertical row system may be a better fit for your specific needs. The same general layout theory applies with using beam style seating in a back to back system. The vertical row seating layout is typically seen in travel terminal and healthcare environments as it provides a pleasing look from multiple angles.

Bistro Style Layout

This trending lobby furniture layout style consists of round or square top tables surrounded by stand alone guest chairs. The bistro look offers a pleasing visual presence and works great in hotel lobby applications. A bistro layout provides families a way to sit privately without disturbing other guests along with the table space needed to eat, converse, and operate those smart devices we are all guilty of using regularly! To create a bistro style layout, measure your space effectively to determine your areas square footage. Work with a designer or industry professional to determine the maximum number of tables and chairs will fit comfortably. Add a few basic accent and voila! You have a trend setting space that's sure to impress your valued visitors.

Cafe Style Layout

Similar to the bistro layout highlighted above, the cafe configuration utilizes tables and chairs spaced effectively to create a cutting edge guest waiting environment. The cafe system uses bar height tables or pub tables to create a swanky vibe that works well in modern lobby applications. Brands like Mayline, Global Total Office, and OFM offer super cool tables and bar stools that make the cafe layout work to perfection. If you're going for high end appeal, the cafe layout is a great way to achieve your aesthetic goals. Interior design teams and industry professionals alike are regularly recommending this popular lobby makeover theme.

Modular Layout

If you're outfitting a large lobby area, going modular with your design is just plain smart! The use of modular lounge chairs, mobile guest chairs, and flip top tables will provide your business with the ability to reconfigure quickly and easily when needed. This layout style provides a wide range of benefits that will allow your business to easily experiment with what type of layout works best. If you like the idea and ability to quickly change your lobby presence, a modular layout may be right for your business. The industries top brands are in a steady race to create versatile furniture solutions that move and adjust quickly to accommodate guests when needed. Incorporating a modular layout into your lobby provides unmatched versatility!

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Office Design Trends: Fall 2014

It's been an exciting year in the world of office furniture. The industries hottest brands have introduced an abundance of new products designed to improve aesthetic appeal while make those long days at the office a bit more bearable! In today's post we'll highlight the top design trends as we head into the fall season. Enjoy!

Trend 1: Gray Laminate Finishes

Whether you're making over your home or business work environment, you're bound to run into a wide variety of gray laminate finished desks this fall. Collections like the Mayline Medina line and the Global Total Office Zira line offer a wide range of gray tones that are trending in a major way. Finishes like Gray Steel, Absolute Acajou, and several others are ideal for creating office spaces that stand apart from the competition.

Trend 2: Metal Accented Desks

Desks with metal accents offer a cutting edge contemporary feel that's on a dramatic upswing in popularity. This modern yet industrial look is showcased to perfection on lines like the Napoli collection from Mayline. Additional collections featuring metal accented office desks include the e5, Zira, and Medina lines.

Trend 3: Metal Accented Conference Tables

Like with desks, using metal accents on conference tables has become incredibly popular. Lines like the Alba collection from Global Total Office and Mystic collection from Lesro Industries are sure to impress in professional meeting areas. Conference room tables with metal bases provide a more open feel and are often far less expensive than comparable models with drum and cylinder style wood bases.

Trend 4: U Shaped Reception Desks

In order to maximize worksurface and storage space in office reception areas, U shaped reception desk styles are becoming more and more common. Collections like Amber from Cherryman Industries offer modular U shaped stations that provide plenty of room to operate. Both single and 2 person reception desk styles can be easily configured. The U shaped reception desk design looks great from nearly every angle and is sure to boost your corporate waiting area appeal.

Trend 5: Ribbed Back Office Chairs

Ribbed back office chairs offer a sleek modern design with horizontal stitching patterns. This look can be seen in office chairs from brands like Ergo Contract Furniture, Flash Furniture, Offices To Go, and several others. The ribbed back look works great in meeting areas as the space saving designs allow businesses to accommodate more guests comfortably without looking over crowded. Ribbed back office chairs start around $150 for professional quality models and can be purchased in popular color options like black, white, gray, and brown.

Trend 6: Powered Boardroom Tables

Create a high powered multi media boardroom this fall and stay in line with out number 6 trend! Conference room and boardroom tables outfitted with power modules are sure to improve your meeting area effectiveness. Brands like Lesro, Global Total Office, Cherryman Industries, and Mayline are all offering popular conference tables with factory installed power ports. While basic modules with three prong cords and phone inputs are the most commonly used, custom ports can be installed with HDMI, Audio, and USB inputs.

Trend 7: Modular Training Room Tables

Using modular tables is just plain smart. While fixed leg training tables will always have their place, the trending modular styles of today are far superior. The ability to quickly connect tables together, flip tops to save space, and roll tables around to avoid lifting makes this trend one to worth following. If you'd like to see this trend in all it's glory, check out lines like the Sync collection from Mayline and Bungee collection from Global Total Office. You'll be glad you did!

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Lesro Impresses with Mystic Reception Furniture

The Lesro Industries Mystic reception furniture collection is truly impressive. This line of high quality guest chairs, bench seating, and accent tables offers the perfect blend of wood and metal accents for a contemporary look that's simply unmatched. In today's post we'll be highlighting a variety of unique products from the Mystic collection and their aesthetic benefits. Enjoy!

First up, the Mystic S1801G7 side chair. This single user guest chair is available in a wide range of fabric and leather upholstery options that work well in lounge, waiting room, and reception area applications. The S1801G7 features wood arm caps available in 6 finish options to compliment your choice of 2 frame finishes. This stand alone chair offers a highly preferred wall saver design and just the right amount of wow factor. Priced at $221.10, the S1801G7 is also an excellent value.


The S1891K8 guest chair from the Mystic Lounge Series is perfect for big and tall users. This heavy duty chair supports up to 750 lbs. and doesn't lack in terms of style. All too often, users are left sorting through a slim selection of quality chairs for bariatric applications. Luckily, Lesro has introduced seating solutions like the S1891K8 to meet the needs of design teams looking to impress while keeping visitors in supreme comfort. This comfy chair is available in all the top upholstery options Lesro has to offer and is a top choice for healthcare based waiting areas.

The Lesro Industries Mystic Collection also offers a wide variety of versatile bench seating solutions for larger reception areas. Products like the S4803G7 bench accommodate up to 4 users at a time without the need for ample spacing between each seat. These space saving bench chairs are great for applications where seating a large number of guests comfortably is top priority. Priced at $867.90, Mystic bench chairs are a bit more pricey than most of the products from this collection, but provide tons of space and style benefits that will be appreciated by businesses for years.

Lesro has also introduced a line of Mystic series accent tables to help design teams and businesses alike further enhance waiting areas. Products like the S2811G7 can be added to provide table space as well as seating for 2 guests for only $552.75. The S2811G7 is truly a versatile product that stands apart from the crowd.

Mystic series coffee tables and end tables like the S1485T5 and S1285T5 incorporate the same wood and metal design characteristics as the incredible chairs from this collection. Choose a cohesive finish and show your design prowess and business sophistication with ease. These tables start at $152.90 and are a must have for any makeover project using the Lesro Mystic line.

Last but certainly not least, the S1005B7 from the Mystic Collection was just too cool to leave out. This two person backless guest bench features upholstered seating surfaces and contemporary metal legs. The S1005B7 can act as a modular coffee table or seating option for guests and provides a ton of aesthetic appeal. As the title of today's post says, Lesro truly impresses with the Mystic collection!

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Mayline Raises Bar with New Medina Desks

The all new Medina furniture collection from Mayline is officially turning heads in office spaces across the country. This innovative line of laminate executive desking offers modern appeal at an affordable price point. Created as a cost affective alternative to the popular Napoli collection, Medina offers the same Italian influenced style characteristics at a more consumer friendly price point. Needless to say, this new line from Mayline raises the bar in every way!

Style

Mayline Medina desks combine a blend of laminate surfaces with metal and glass accents. With a wide variety of both small and large configurations available to meet spaces of any size, going modern just got easy. The rich wood grain tones compliment the silver modesty panel accents and handle pulls to perfection. The glass hutch and storage cabinet doors add a touch of high end appeal without going to over the top. Overall, this collection's top not style is sure to earn any space an abundance of positive compliments.

Finishes

The Mayline Medina Collection is available in 3 attractive laminate finish options. The mahogany finish offers a classic look that works great in both home and business work environments. Mayline has taken note of the success that dark wood tones are enjoying this year and is offering a mocha finish on all of the popular desks from this collection to help keep your office in line with the hottest trends. Last but not least, the Gray Steel laminate option is an instant favorite. The look of gray wood is sure to provide any space with ample wow factor and a desk configuration that looks very high end without the hefty price tag.

Versatility

The Medina collection is an excellent choice for both home and business needs. The affordable price point makes desks from the Medina line very attainable for the average home office consumer while the quality craftsmanship and modern characteristics make them highly desired by business professionals. If you choose not to go with a pre configured set, Medina's wide range of desking components will allow you to easily spec a custom layout to meet your specific needs. With an abundance of desk, pedestal, wall cabinet, and hutch options available, this soon to be best selling line is all about versatility!

Configurations

The Medina line offers an excellent selection of quick shipping desk typicals to help you design your office in a hurry, without sacrificing style. Check out the popular layouts below!

Configuration 1: $1702.99

Configuration 2: $1407.99

Configuration 3: $999.99

Additional Notes

Those looking to finish multiple office areas will love the Mayline Medina Collection. This extensive line includes a wide range of desks as well as high quality furniture for professional conference rooms. Medina conference tables are available with factory install power modules for multi media spaces as well as a wide range of presentation aids and storage components to take any meeting area over the top. This line does it all!

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Office All Stars: Zira Reception Desks by Global Total Office

Looking to make an impression on your office visitors? The all new Zira series reception desks from Global Total Office will help you do just that! These versatile and incredibly stylish stations offer high end modern appeal that's sure to earn you space daily compliments. In today's article we'll take an in depth look at some of the hottest models from this all star collection. Enjoy!

Kicking things off with a bang, our first Zira reception desk is abounding with wow factor. At first glance you'll notice the user friendly U shaped design and contemporary accent features. This station boasts a custom two tone finish consisting of tiger maple work surfaces and brushed cobalt storage components. The frosted glass accents and metal post leg design on the front desk take this unit over the top. Priced at $4422.99, if you're office can fit it in the budget, it's well worth the investment.

Global Total Office has been one of the industries most popular seating manufacturers for years. That being said, the new Zira line of casegoods is sure to take this top brand to a whole new level. Stations like our second unit highlighted here are all about user efficiency and functionality. When it comes to reception area desks, most of today's standard units offer minimal space for organizing and file storage. However, this Zira station integrates a 4 drawer standing lateral file and plenty of space to keep your welcoming area operating a peak performance levels.

At $6535.99, our third reception desk configuration from the Zira series offers way more than work space. While the full U shaped design provides plenty of room to work, the 3 lateral file cabinets with organizer tops offer excellent aesthetic appeal and the filing space needed by most bigger businesses. The blend of tiger maple and black accents combine with stunning glass accents that will no doubt improve your corporate appeal. Need even more space? No problem! A custom 2 user version of this same layout is also available.

Last but certainly not least, our last Zira station is nothing short of impressive. With hybrid desk surfaces trending majorly in 2014, this unit is sure to be a hit with consumers and interior design teams alike. The dark espresso wood laminate and willow gray finish combination offers luxury appeal that's not to be underestimated. Priced at $5454.99, the glass and metal accents along with a wide range of storage components come standard. Rest assured, this configuration is a real winner and sure to impress.

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DIY Executive Office Makeover

A well designed executive office space shows creativity and professionalism. In today's article, we'll showcase just how easy it can be for you to create the executive space of your dreams. This step by step guide provides the necessary tips, tricks, and product suggestions you'll need to get this DIY project done right. Enjoy!

Step 1: Assess Your Needs

The first step in any office makeover project involves proper assessment of your individual needs. Start by effectively measuring your office area to determine the layout and square footage you have to work with. Be sure to notate entry ways, windows, and power outlets. Next, make a list of goals for your project including the style you hope to achieve, the budget you want to stay within, and a time frame for completion.

Step 2: Choose A Decor Style

In 2014, the modern look reigns supreme! However, other popular styles include traditional, contemporary, retro, and industrial. No matter the style you choose to incorporate in your space, it's important to stay within the boundaries of your theme to achieve a cohesive and professional look.

Step 3: Paint

You can settle for neutral wall colors if you like, but if you're considering a full makeover, painting is best handled before you assemble your new furniture to avoid multiple movements. Choosing colors that best represent your executive personality and decor theme will help to showcase your space to perfection.

Step 4: Choosing The Right Office Furniture

The main focal point of your executive office will be the desk. That being said, it's very important to choose the proper configuration for your space. Smaller office areas are best outfitted with executive desks for corner use while larger office spaces can utilize more elaborate configuration ideas. When choosing a new office desk, be sure to shop from the industries top collections to ensure a cohesive look. Once you've chosen a desk from a collection you like, add storage components to help you stay organized. Often, office desks with U shape designs feature integrated pedestals and overhead storage hutches that will take care of this need. No matter your choice, the list of top selling office furniture collections below will provide excellent design inspiration and insight.

Top Executive Furniture Collections To Consider:

Verde by Cherryman Industries

Amber by Cherryman Industries 

Napoli by Mayline

Brighton by Mayline

Superior Laminate Desking by Offices To Go

Step 5: Choose A Comfortable Executive Chair

Now that your furniture is purchased, it's time to focus on comfort. Shopping professional chairs for executive use can be a long and tedious process. With thousands of models available for sale online, the choices can be overwhelming to say the least. The best course of action is to first determine a general style of chair you feel will work best for you. Popular styles include both fabric and leather models with high back and mid back back frames. Next determine the ergonomic features you feel you need to work efficiently. Lumbar support, adjustable arms, tilt features, and many more are available on most seating solutions around the $300 price point. Lastly, choose a reputable manufacturer you like, determine a model that will work best, and shop for the best value. You can visit showrooms or work with dealers to provide helpful insight. As most of your day will be spent sitting, it's important to take your time with this step to determine the best solution for your individual needs.

Popular Executive Chair Brands Include:

Eurotech Seating

Global Total Office

RFM Preferred Seating

Offices To Go

Step 6: Accessorize

Once you've purchased your furniture and seating, it's time to accessorize by equipping your workstation with ergonomic products designed to make your life in the office easier. Popular accessories include ergonomic monitor arms that adjust to create more useable desk space, as well as retractable keyboard trays. Adding LED desk lighting, CPU mounts, and other popular products will also provide helpful relief while working if you want to take your space over the top.

Step 7: Delivery and Installation

The final step of your executive office makeover will the delivery and installation phase. Upon purchase of your new products, take the time to inquire with your dealer of choice about an estimated shipping time. If possible, schedule delivery around a time that works for you. In the time frame leading up to delivery, be sure to prep your space accordingly by removing all existing furniture while creating a staging area to place boxed products when they arrive. Most furniture installation is very simple and can be handled easily with 2 individuals. On average, desks for executive office areas around 45 minutes to assemble and can be handled effectively with allen wrenches and screw drivers. Additional tools you may consider having on hand include a cordless drill, pliers, and first aid kit as safety always comes first.

Once your furniture is completely assembled, you'll not doubt be left with extensive packing materials. Be sure to prepare accordingly by leaving room in your business dumpster. Break down the boxes to save space and use trash bags to collect the smaller fodder. Once complete, you'll be ready to enjoy your professional executive space!

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Choosing The Perfect Conference Table for Your Business

A professional meeting area speaks volumes about your business. That being said, the main focal point of this essential space is the conference room table. With an extensive selection of styles available in 2014, choosing the perfect table for your boardroom can be a difficult and overwhelming task. In today's article, we'll highlight the step by step process including tips, product suggestions, and the advice you'll need to purchase the best conference room table for your specific needs.

1.) Size

The first step in choosing the perfect conference table for your business is to assess your needs. Start by measuring your space effectively to determine the size table that will work best. Most businesses use tables between 6' and 10' in length.

2.) Guests

On average you'll want to allow around 3 feet of table space per user. A 6' table will accommodate 4 users comfortably while a 10' table is made to host between 8 and 10 visitors if you choose to use the table ends. To avoid cramping, check out a few popular conference chairs or your current office chairs. Take the measurements of each being sure to take note of the seat and base widths. You can then use these figures to ensure a comfortable meeting experience for your business guests.

3.) Materials 

To choose the best conference table for your business, you'll want to educate yourself on the most popular materials being used today. Top brands like Global Total Office offer a wide range of tables including wood veneer, metal, and laminate variations that vary widely in price. In most cases wood veneer tables will be the most expensive while laminate top tables are typically the most affordable. Additional brands like OFM, Inc. are now offering attractive glass top conference room tables that are a favorite amongst interior design teams and industry professionals alike. That being said, the hottest conference room design trends of 2014 include the use laminate top tables with industrial metal bases. Products like the GR6STM Alba Series Table will give you a great idea of what's hot this year.

4.) Price

In 2014, shopping for new conference room tables on a budget can actually be quite simple. Brands like Mayline, Cherryman Industries, and Global Total Office all provide affordable solutions that look fantastic. Products like the BTCT6 Brighton Series 6' Conference Table by Mayline can be purchased for as little as $218.99 with free shipping. Higher end tables can range into the thousands depending on the material and size table you choose.

5.) Shape

Popular conference table shapes include round, racetrack, boat shaped, rectangular, and elliptical. This area of the design process is purely based on your personal preference. However, rectangular and boat shaped tables will provide the most useable space on table ends to help you accommodate the maximum number of guests. New elliptical top conference table solutions are by far the most popular this year. For smaller areas, round top styles are best.

6.) Style

Various conference table styles including modern, traditional, contemporary, and industrial should all be taken into account when shopping for your new table. Doing a simple inquiry via your favorite search engine will provide you with helpful insight as to what each looks like. Once you've done the basis research, determine what look will best enhance your corporate decor.

7.) Value

Everyone loves a good deal! That being said, it's important to find value when selecting your new conference table. Manufacturers like those mentioned above offer great products highly suggested for professional office use. In addition, be sure to inquire with your dealer of choice about bulk discount pricing, free shipping, and current closeout specials that may be available. If you're looking to purchase an entirely new furniture configuration for your space, savings should definitely be made available.

8.) Lead Times

So you've found the perfect conference table, but will it be available when you need it? All too often business furniture shoppers are faced with tight project deadlines. When searing for your new table, be sure to inquire about how long tables will take to ship. While most tables from brands like Mayline and Cherryman Industries are typically in stock, more customizable solutions like the tables from Global Total Office are made to order and take approximately 3 to 5 weeks to manufacturer. Be sure to leave yourself with ample time to ensure you're able to purchase the table you love and don't end up settling due to a time crunch. Most industry professionals recommend shopping 5 weeks before you need your products and scheduling delivery around a time that works best for you.

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How To Meet Your Office Makeover Project Deadline

When designing a professional office space, businesses are commonly faced with tight deadlines and strict budgets. In today's article we'll highlight the helpful tips and industry secrets you'll need to get your project finished on time and stress free! From the lobby to the boardroom, these versatile tricks will improve your business makeover efficiency.

1.) Assess Your Needs

All too often businesses go into office design projects without a distinct plan of attack. To better tackle your makeover, create a list of pieces you need and goals you hope to accomplish with your project. As budget is always a factor, assessing your needs at the beginning of your project will help to prevent you from splurging and exhausting your funds too quickly. The tips below are sure to help you create an itemized plan of attack for your project.

Tips for Assessing Your Office Makeover Needs:

• Measure Your Space Effectively
• Sketch 3 Potential Layout Ideas
• Choose A Furniture Style
• Determine A Furniture Brand
• Meeting with An Office Furniture Specialist

2.) Shop Smart

Once you've determined your specific project needs, it's time to shop. By now you should have met with an industry specialist to receive product suggestions on what brands, collections, and styles will work best for your project based on the tip list highlighted above. Take your new found knowledge to the digital world and search your favorite engine for deals, specials, and companies offering free shipping office furniture promotions to maximize your budget. Be sure to inquire about specific product lead times with your dealer of choice and leave up to 1 week of cushion for any unforeseen manufacturing issues that may occur.

3.) Schedule Delivery

Now that you've comparison shopped and purchased the necessary furniture to complete your project, the next essential step is to schedule delivery. There's not much worse than having a delivery driver show up when you are in no way ready to receive your new furniture. Scheduling delivery is a sure fire way to help you stay organized and on top of your makeover deadline. To determine an estimated delivery date effectively inquire with your dealer about a shipping date. Once items ship a tracking number will be available upon request. Obtain this number and the freight carriers information and call them asap. The sooner you request a specific delivery day the more likely the carrier will be able to meet your request.

4.) Prepare Your Space

Whether you choose to go the way of a professional office furniture installation service or opt for self installation methods with your team, prepping your space is an absolute must. Start by removing old office desks, tables, and seating a few days in advance. Be sure to take pictures of the furniture in your current space if you're planning to sell it to recapture expenses. With your old furniture removed you'll be empowered with a clear canvas to begin your makeover. Take the time to create a staging area for new furniture to be placed out of the way. This simple tip will save you time and prevent the need to move boxes multiple times before they are actually needed!

5.) Have The Correct Tools

Having the correct tools on hand to install your furniture will prevent time consuming trips to the hardware store. If you're hoping to meet a project deadline, these little hiccups will surely hurt your chances of doing so. The tool check list below is a helpful guide as to what items you'll need on hand to ensure a smooth and effective install.

Must Have Items for Office Furniture Installation Include:

• Assorted Screwdrivers (both Philips and flat head variations)
• Cordless Drill
• First Aid Kit
• Flash Light
• Furniture Sliders or Dolly
• Box Cutter
• Set of Allen Wrenches
• Socket Set
• Measuring Device

 6.) Don't Forget To Clean

Once the installation process is completed, rest assured there will be debris! Packaging materials like bubble wrap and card board will be abundant. For larger projects like conference room, executive offices, and office lobby furniture configurations, be sure to have an empty dumpster on hand to hold all your unwanted waste. Breaking boxes down will save space while trash bags will come in handy for smaller odds and ends. Often, new furniture will be accompanied by dust. Therefore, having a soft rag and cleaning supplies will allow you to make your new products shine to their full potential before the following work day.

Overall, meeting your project deadline is all about being prepared and organized. Collaborating with your coworkers and furniture provider will provide helpful insight all throughout the process. Be sure to generate an itemized plan and budget to follow for your specific requirements. In the long run, the makeover transition when handled right can be a truly fun and rewarding process you can be proud of!

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How To Makeover Your Office Waiting Room

An excellent first impression is priceless in business. That being said a professional waiting room area to welcome guests is a must. In today's article we'll highlight the 5 simple steps you'll need to follow in order to design your space to perfection. From space planning to installation, the strategies and tips found here will make your project a breeze!


Step 1: Space Planning

This first important step in any office makeover project is space planning. To achieve an effective layout you'll first need to measure your waiting area. During this process make sure to notate power outlets, windows, entry ways, and any load bearing members. Once your space has been effectively measured, determine the number of guests you're hoping to accommodate. This will help you and your furniture provider to determine a layout that will work best for your specific needs.

Step 2: Select Your Seating Style

Once you've effectively measured your space, it's time to determine the seating style that will work best for your business needs and budget. Contemporary themed waiting areas commonly use beam style seating from popular brands like Global Total Office and OFM as this look is quite popular and affordable. Traditionally minded businesses looking to create an at home feel will benefit greatly from wood guest chairs and accent furniture. Healthcare environments will often use plastic and vinyl seating that's easy to clean and maintain. No matter the style you choose, keep your customer base in mind. Working with an interior design team is always a nice option if your budget permits.

Step 3: Choose Accent Furniture

Once you've chosen your seating, it's time to accent your products for optimal efficiency. Often coffee and end table sets will be available from the same manufacturer as your seating as a recommended pairing. Materials like glass, wood, and metal are the common and provide a nice compliment that doesn't over power a space. In addition to tables for waiting room applications, wall art, decorative plants, and area rugs all help to bring your decor to life.

Step 4: Prepare for Delivery

Rest assured, nothing is worse than having your new furniture and seating arrive when you aren't properly prepared. To avoid this common problem, work with your dealer or interior design team closely. Determine an estimated ship date for your products and mark the date on your calender. Once your products ship you'll have approximately 3 to 7 business days to begin prepping depending on the quantity of products needed for your makeover. Order tracking information is typically available upon request from most reputable vendors once items ship out. To prep, remove old furniture and create a staging area to keep your new products out of the way during the installation process. This will ensure a smooth transition that doesn't become overly cluttered.

Step 5: Installation

Once your items arrive you'll be ready for install. One nice thing about new waiting room furniture is that most of the top rated products ship fully or partially assembled. Items like sofas and lounge chairs make for a quick install process that's relatively hassle free. Items like individual guest chairs, beam seating, and tables may require basic tools and should be planned for accordingly. A basic power drill, wrenches, and screwdriver are definitely recommended. In several cases basis hand tools are actually included by the manufacturer but it's still best to plan ahead. A factor that's commonly forgotten about when installing furniture is the debris. Large items mean large boxes and an abundance of packing materials. Make sure you are prepared for a bit of clean up and have room in your businesses trash area to handle the amount of materials from your project.

With the 5 basic steps listed above you should be ready to take on your waiting room makeover. As previously mentioned, working with interior design teams and office furniture professionals will help to further prepare you for the project at hand. Remember, it's far better to be over prepared than under! Make sure to set a project time frame, shop online for value priced products, and have fun! The best projects are those that show personality and business ingenuity.

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