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Measure the total width and depth of the reception area, including doorways, walkways and nearby furniture. Allow enough clearance behind the desk for the receptionist to move comfortably and make sure drawers, cupboards and doors can open without obstruction. It is also important to measure access points such as lifts, corridors and doorways to ensure the reception desk can be delivered into the space.
A reception desk for two people should provide enough workspace for both users to comfortably accommodate computers, phones, paperwork and other equipment. As a general guide, allowing around 1200–1500 mm of desk width per person provides a practical starting point, although the ideal size depends on the equipment, storage requirements and available floor space.
A DDA-compliant reception desk is designed to provide accessible service for people with disability, including wheelchair users. In Australia, accessibility requirements are generally considered under the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) and relevant Australian building and accessibility standards. An accessible reception counter may include a lower section with appropriate knee and wheelchair clearance so visitors can comfortably approach and communicate with reception staff.
For most commercial workplaces, commercial-grade melamine or laminate is a practical choice because it is durable, easy to clean and available in a wide range of colours and finishes. Laminate can offer additional resistance to wear in busy reception areas, while timber veneer or solid timber may be selected where a more premium appearance is required. The best material depends on traffic levels, budget, maintenance requirements and the desired office aesthetic.
A good-quality commercial reception desk can typically remain in service for many years, particularly when it is made from durable commercial-grade materials and properly maintained. Its lifespan will depend on construction quality, daily usage, environmental conditions and how frequently it is moved or reconfigured. In high-traffic reception areas, choosing hard-wearing surfaces, quality hardware and replaceable components can help extend the desk's useful life.