Quick answer: allow 650 to 700 mm of length for each person seated along the sides, a width of 1,100 to 1,400 mm and a height of 730-750 mm. Leave at least 1,000-1,200 mm of clear space around the table so chairs can be pulled out and people can walk behind them.
Indicative size table
- 6 people · 2,000-2,400 × 1,000-1,200 mm
- 8 people · 2,600-2,800 × 1,100-1,200 mm
- 10 people · 3,200-3,600 × 1,200 mm
- 12 people · 3,600-4,000 × 1,200-1,400 mm
- 16 people · 4,800-5,200 × 1,400 mm
- 20 people · 6,000-7,200 × 1,400-1,600 mm, or a U-shaped, oval or modular table
If someone sits at the ends (the chair), add about 700-800 mm for each occupied end, or choose a curved end, which gives the person sitting there more room.
Width matters as much as length
At 1,000 mm wide, people facing each other sit too close and there is no room for technology in the centre. We recommend at least 1,200 mm for boardrooms, and 1,400 mm or more if the table has pop-up monitors, a microphone at every seat or a central connectivity band.
How much space the room needs
A simple rule: room size = table size + 2.2-2.4 m in each direction (1.1-1.2 m per side). If there are cabinets, screens or a walkway behind the chairs, increase that margin. A 4,000 × 1,200 mm table needs a room of about 6.2 × 3.4 m.
Which shape to choose
- Rectangular: makes the best use of long, narrow rooms.
- Oval or with curved ends: everyone can see each other and the table gains presence.
- U or V-shaped: points everyone towards a screen or a chair.
- Semicircular (hemicycle): for boards and plenary sessions with a top table.
- Modular: one table that changes size with each meeting.
You can try all these shapes with your number of people in our 3D configurator, which calculates the sizes instantly.
Frequently asked questions
How much space does each person need at a boardroom table?
Between 650 and 700 mm of table length per person. With large executive chairs or laptops, 750 mm is better.
How high is a boardroom table?
Between 730 and 750 mm, the same as a desk. If the chairs are very low or very high it is worth adjusting it.
Can a large table be made in several parts?
Yes. Long tables are made in modules with concealed joints so they fit in the lift and can be assembled in the room with no visible joints.
Do you know what the room is like? Tell us and we will propose size, shape and materials. More information on boardroom and meeting tables.
By the technical office of Eban Premium, manufacturer of bespoke boardroom tables in Silla (Valencia, Spain).