Rethinking the Meeting Room: A Guide to Seating, Style, and Substance

The Ultimate Meeting Room Makeover: Why Seating and Style Matter for Productivity

Let’s face it: many hotel meeting rooms don’t quite set the stage for productivity. The typical setup—think dull carpets, stark lighting, and chairs that are barely bearable—often lacks the comfort and ambiance to keep people engaged, even if the content of the meeting is compelling. Yet, meeting rooms with well-chosen design elements and seating that prioritizes comfort can significantly elevate the experience, transforming a “just get through it” mentality into an environment conducive to focused, productive work.

Here’s a guide to creating meeting spaces that people actually want to work in, taking cues from properties like the Eurostars in Catalunya, where innovative design and thoughtful amenities are changing the game.

1. Start with the Basics: Comfortable, Supportive Seating
When people spend hours in a conference room, comfortable seating is essential. Invest in ergonomic chairs with lumbar support, adjustable height, and armrests that cater to different body types. This attention to seating can make a long day of meetings far more bearable, as guests feel physically supported and free from common discomforts that often come with poorly designed chairs.

2. Incorporate Natural Light
Natural light can have a profound impact on focus, energy, and overall mood. Rooms that maximize daylight—through large windows, glass walls, or skylights—foster a feeling of openness and reduce fatigue. Eurostars in Catalunya sets a great example by embracing natural light, which transforms the typical conference room into a lively, inviting space. Where windows aren’t possible, use light fixtures that mimic daylight to achieve a similar effect.

3. Modern, Functional Design Elements
The aesthetic of a meeting room can subtly affect how people feel and perform. Opt for a clean, modern design with neutral tones and a few accents that add warmth without overwhelming. Ditch outdated patterns and color schemes in favor of sleek tables, minimalist decor, and understated colors. This helps participants feel more alert and focused rather than distracted by busy patterns or overly bright colors.

4. Reliable WiFi and Smart Technology
A functional, modern meeting room should prioritize connectivity. WiFi should be fast and consistent, with enough bandwidth to handle multiple devices without lag. Consider integrating smart technology like interactive screens, wireless charging stations, and plug-and-play systems that make setting up presentations a breeze. Tech features that streamline connectivity make it easier for attendees to stay engaged and collaborate.

5. Make Comfort a Priority with Thoughtful Amenities
Small touches like an on-site coffee bar, water stations, or fresh snacks go a long way. Offering refreshments encourages short, rejuvenating breaks without interrupting the flow of work. Comfortable breakout areas where people can stretch or relax between sessions add an extra layer of comfort that boosts overall morale and satisfaction.

6. Flexible Layouts to Suit Different Needs
Designing with flexibility in mind is key for multi-functional spaces. A room that can be easily reconfigured—whether for a boardroom setup, a collaborative workspace, or small group discussions—will cater to a broader range of activities. Modular furniture and movable partitions allow you to adjust the layout quickly, making it easy to switch from formal presentations to casual brainstorm sessions.

The Takeaway: A Small Investment in Meeting Room Quality Pays Off
Meeting rooms should feel like environments designed for creativity and focus, not just bland spaces to fill time. By paying attention to essentials—comfortable seating, natural light, modern aesthetics, and thoughtful amenities—hotels can create meeting rooms that not only meet basic functional needs but also enhance productivity.

Ultimately, well-designed meeting spaces reflect positively on a brand, signaling that your hotel values guests’ comfort and experience.