Furnishing reception and customer areas in service companies
by Wiepa Team on Jul 09, 2026Reception & Customer Areas
Furnishing Reception and Customer Areas in Service Companies
The reception area must appear professional and at the same time function as a functional workspace with clear filing, good ergonomics, and protected communication.
Short Answer
Plan reception, waiting area, consultation, information, and back office as separate functional areas. Furniture, lighting, acoustics, signage, and work tools must match the actual processes.
The Most Important Zones
| Zone | Function | Equipment |
|---|---|---|
| Reception | Greeting and Coordination | Counter, Technology, Filing |
| Waiting Area | Short Stay | Seating, Side Table, Information |
| Consultation | Confidential Discussion | Table, Chairs, Acoustics |
| Back Office | Documents and Supplies | Cabinets, Printer, Secure Filing |
Plan Workflows Before Design
What activities take place? How many people work simultaneously? Where are forms, keys, packages, or customer documents located? Only after considering these questions should the counter, storage space, and technology be dimensioned.
Discretion and Acoustics
Conversations and screens must not be visible or audible uncontrollably. Distance, privacy screens, acoustic elements, and separate consultation areas create better conditions.
Orientation and Accessibility
Good contrasts, understandable signage, clear pathways, and, if necessary, different service heights facilitate access. Specific structural requirements must be checked on a project-by-project basis.
Typical Mistakes
- too little storage space behind the counter
- cables and devices without a plan
- customer data openly visible
- too many displays in the entrance area
- poor acoustics during consultations
- inflexible furniture for changing staff
Planning Checklist
- Observe activities and visitor flows.
- Record devices, documents, and supplies.
- Plan guest and employee pathways.
- Check discretion and data protection.
- Coordinate ergonomics, acoustics, and lighting.
- Test signage and accessibility.
- Adjust equipment during operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high should a reception desk be?
This depends on the activity, user groups, and structural requirements. Different heights can be useful.
What chair is suitable?
A well-adjustable office or counter chair suitable for the actual working height.
How to keep the area tidy?
Through fixed compartments, limited quantities, and a daily reset routine.
How to protect customer data?
With privacy screens, controlled filing, locked screens, and secure disposal.
Does Wiepa plan complete reception areas?
Yes. Furniture, ergonomics, storage space, acoustics, lighting, and ongoing needs can be planned together.
Sources
Guidance is provided by BAuA, DGUV, and BfDI.
Plan a Functional and Representative Reception Area
Wiepa supports service providers in Wiesbaden and Rhein-Main with office furniture, acoustics, lighting, data protection, and office supplies.
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