Meeting & Boardroom Chairs Buyers Guide

Choosing the right chairs for your office meeting or boardroom is just as important as selecting the table itself. The chairs impact comfort, style, and the overall functionality and impression of the space. With a wide variety of types and styles available in the UK market, understanding the pros and cons of each is key.

Here's a guide to the different types of meeting and boardroom chairs and what to consider:

1. Four-Leg Chairs

These are perhaps the most traditional and widely used type of meeting chair. They have a simple design with a seat and backrest supported by four individual legs.

• Pros:
  • Stability: Offer a solid and stable seating option.
  • Versatility: Available in a vast range of styles, materials (plastic, wood, metal frame with upholstered seat/back), and colours to suit any office aesthetic.
  • Often Stackable: Many four-leg chairs are designed to be stacked, making them a good space-saving option when the room needs to be reconfigured or cleared.
  • Cost-Effective: Generally, they are among the more affordable meeting chair options.
• Cons:
  • Limited Movement: Lack the swivel or recline features of other chair types, which might be less comfortable for longer meetings.
  • Can Mark Floors: Depending on the leg base and flooring, they can potentially cause scuff marks unless fitted with appropriate glides.

2. Cantilever Chairs

Characterised by an L-shaped frame that creates a slight bouncing or flexing motion, cantilever chairs offer a distinctive, modern look.

• Pros:
  • Modern Aesthetic: Provide a sleek and contemporary feel to a meeting space.
  • Comfort (Flex): The inherent flexibility in the frame can offer a surprising level of comfort and slight movement during sitting.
  • Easy to Slide: The base design can make them relatively easy to slide in and out from the table.
• Cons:
  • Can Be Heavy: The metal frame can make them heavier than some four-leg or stacking chairs.
  • Stacking Limitations: While some are stackable, they generally don't stack as high or as neatly as standard four-leg stacking chairs.
  • Potential for Tipping: While generally stable, they can feel less secure than four-leg or swivel chairs if a user leans heavily to one side.

3. Swivel Chairs

Commonly found in office desk environments, swivel chairs are also used in some meeting and boardrooms, particularly those where participants need to turn to face screens or other parts of the room. They typically have a central pedestal base with multiple (usually five) castors.

• Pros:
  • Movement and Flexibility: Allow users to easily turn and manoeuvre without pulling the chair in and out.
  • Ergonomic Features: Often come with adjustable height and sometimes basic recline or tilt functions, offering more ergonomic support than static chairs.
  • Comfort for Longer Meetings: The ability to adjust and move can improve comfort over extended periods.
• Cons:
  • Take Up More Space: The castor base typically requires more floor space around the table than static chairs.
  • Can Cause Distraction: The swivel and rolling capabilities can sometimes be distracting in a meeting setting.
  • Less Formal Look: May convey a less formal or executive feel compared to static or high-backed options.
  • Potential Floor Damage: Castors can potentially damage certain types of flooring over time, although chair mats can mitigate this.

4. Executive / High-Back Chairs

These chairs are designed for comfort and a commanding presence, often featuring generous padding, higher backrests, and premium upholstery like leather. They are most commonly found in formal boardrooms.

• Pros:
  • High Comfort Level: Excellent padding and support, suitable for very long meetings.
  • Formal and Prestigious Look: Convey a sense of importance and luxury, making a strong impression on clients and visitors.
  • Good Posture Support: The high back often provides good support for the upper back and shoulders.
• Cons:
  • Expensive: Generally the most expensive type of meeting chair.
  • Take Up Significant Space: Their larger size requires more room around the table.
  • Not Stackable: Cannot be easily stored away, requiring dedicated space around the table at all times.
  • Can Be Heavy: Premium materials and construction add to the weight.

5. Stackable / Nesting Chairs

Designed specifically for space-saving, these chairs can be efficiently stacked vertically or nested into each other when not in use.

• Pros:
  • Excellent Space Saving: Ideal for multi-purpose rooms or where space is limited and the meeting area needs to be cleared frequently.
  • Easy to Store: Can be neatly stored in a corner or separate storage area.
  • Lightweight: Generally lighter than other chair types, making them easy to move.
• Cons:
  • Can Be Less Comfortable: Comfort levels can vary, and some basic models may not be suitable for very long meetings. Padding and upholstery options improve comfort.
  • Appearance: Some basic stacking chairs may have a more functional than stylish appearance, although many modern designs offer attractive options.
  • Potential for Damage: Repeated stacking and unstacking can potentially lead to wear and tear.

6. Tub Chairs / Armchairs (for Informal Areas)

While not typically used at the main meeting table, softer seating like tub chairs or armchairs can be excellent for creating informal breakout or waiting areas within or adjacent to a meeting room.

• Pros:
  • Relaxed and Comfortable: Offer a more casual and comfortable seating experience.
  • Enhance Aesthetics: Can add a touch of style and softness to the room.
  • Create Different Zones: Help define informal areas within a larger space.
• Cons:
  • Not Suitable for Table Use: Too low and relaxed for sitting at a standard meeting table for work or discussions requiring writing/laptop use.
  • Take Up Space: Can be bulky and require dedicated floor space.

7. Folding Chairs

A practical solution for occasional use or when you need to quickly add extra seating for a larger gathering.

• Pros:
  • Maximum Space Saving: Fold down flat for very compact storage.
  • Highly Portable: Lightweight and easy to move.
  • Cost-Effective: Generally the cheapest option for providing extra seating.
• Cons:
  • Limited Comfort: Not designed for long periods of sitting and typically lack ergonomic features.
  • Appearance: Often have a functional, less professional look.
  • Durability: May not withstand heavy, frequent use compared to contract-grade office chairs.
  • Potential for Trapping Fingers: Care must be taken when folding and unfolding.

General Considerations When Choosing Meeting Chairs:

• Comfort: How long are meetings typically? For longer sessions, prioritise padding, back support, and potentially some adjustability.
• Ergonomics: While not always as adjustable as task chairs, look for features like contoured backrests and appropriate seat height for the table.
• Material: Choose a material (fabric, leather, faux leather, mesh, plastic) based on desired look, comfort, durability, and ease of cleaning. Consider how well the material will stand up to potential spills.
• Style: Ensure the chair style complements the meeting table and the overall office decor.
• Durability and Quality: Look for contract-grade chairs designed for office use, which are built to withstand more frequent use than domestic furniture. Check warranties.
• Space Availability: Crucial for determining the maximum size and type of chair, and whether stackability is a necessity.
• Budget: Establish a budget per chair, balancing cost with quality, comfort, and durability.
• Quantity: Ensure you order enough chairs to comfortably seat the maximum number of people the table is intended for. It's often wise to order a few spares.