Room options

  - Theatre Style.
Seats or chairs in rows facing a stage area, head table, or speaker (with no conference table)

Used for
This is the most efficient set-up when the attendees will act as an audience. This set-up is not recommended for food events or if note taking is required.

Pros
Good for large groups when reading/writing are not required

Cons
Elevation changes needed for large groups
No writing surface
Minimal group interaction

   - U-Shape.
A series of conference tables set in the shape of the letter U, with chairs around the outside.

Used for
This layout style is often used for Board of Directors meetings, committee meetings, or discussion groups where there is a speaker, audio-visual presentation or other focal point.

Pros
Good work space
Good interaction between participants
Ideal when audio-visual or speakers are involved

Cons
Not ideal for larger group

   - Classroom Style.
Rows of conference tables with chairs facing the front of a room (and usually a speaker), providing writing space for each person.

Used for
This room set-up is ideal for note taking, meetings requiring multiple handouts or reference materials, or other tools such as laptop computers. This is the most comfortable set-up for long sessions and allows refreshments to be placed within reach of each attendee.

Pros
Presenter can see all participants
Accommodates large groups in less space

Cons
Minimal interaction possible
Participants only see each other’s backs

   - Conference or Boardroom Style.
A rectangular or oval table set up with chairs around all sides and ends.

Used for
This table layout is often used for Board of Directors meetings, committee meetings, or discussion groups.

Pros
Good work space
Good working atmosphere
Good interaction between participants

Cons
Not ideal for audio-visual presentations
Not ideal for speakers
Not ideal for larger groups

   - Hollow Design.
Rectangular conference tables arranged in a square or rectangle or even octagon, leaving the centre open. Chairs are placed around the outside of the tables.

Best usage: Larger meetings of 12 to 30 pax, at which group interaction among attendees is important and meetings when the event does not have a designated leader or presenter.

Useful layout design that provides workspace for each person and good communication and visual lines for each person.

     - Banquet or Banquet Rounds.
A group of round tables, each seating 8 - 10 people usually, set to facilitate serving food, usually in a hexagonal or square design.

1/2 Rounds
Seating around 1/2 of the table so all are facing towards the front allowing everyone to face a presenter.

Best usage: Banquet-style is the setup plan of choice for most meal functions. In addition, it is also useful for small business meetings and breakouts or groups involving group interaction and/or note taking.