Theater 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.

Set-up hints
This is a very flexible room set-up. Rows can be circular, semi-circular, straight, or angled toward the focal point.
Offset each row so that attendees don’t have to look over the person in front of them (this will increase the space required).
If using banquet type chairs, space them 3″ to 6″ apart as these chairs are normally narrower than most people’s bodies.
If you have the space, allow for 24″ between rows to allow attendees easy movement in and out of the row.

U-Shape Style
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.

Set-up hints
A minimum of 2′ of table space is required per attendee.
Skirt the inside of the “U” if attendees are being seated only on the outside.
Avoid the “U” set-up for groups greater than 25, as the sides of the “U” become too long and may not promote participation from all attendees.

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.

Set-up hints
Tables that extend beyond the stage or podium should be angled toward the speaker.
Allow for approximately 2′ of space per person at each table. (More space may be required depending on the amount of materials).
Minimum space between tables is 3′. Provide 3½’ if space allows, for ease of movement in and out of rows.

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.

Set-up hints
Many facilities offer rooms with permanent conference tables in a variety of shapes.
If these are not available, standard conference tables can be placed together to form a square, rectangle or hollow square.
Remember, the larger the set-up, the harder it is for attendees to see others at the end opposite them.

Hollow Design Style
Square conference tables arranged in a square or rectangle or even octagon, leaving the center open. Chairs are placed around the outside of the tables.

Set-up hints : 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 Style
A group of round tables, each seating 6-10 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.

Set-up hints : 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.

Cocktail Style
Small, round cocktail/reception tables (usually 15-30 inches or 38-76 centimeters in diameter) with chairs.

Tall tables positioned uniformly to allow for even coverage of the banquet room and standing room only. Great for cocktail parties and receptions.

Thanks to Conference Room Layouts