Have you ever looked for a simple guide to event room layouts?

The hard work is done and you have found a venue that fits nicely with your event now it is time to put the event together. The seating style for your delegates can be make or break to what they actually get out of your event. Here I will describe each Layout with accommodate at The Big Shed to try and help you choose your event layout.

Theatre style

This is the simplest style which consists of chairs aligned in straight rows. This is the most efficient seating style for when delegates will act as an audience.

Pros
• Will get the maximum capacity from the room
• All seats face towards the speakers
Cons
• Hard for delegates to take notes
• Little group interaction

Good for – Announcement’s, Meetings & Product Launches

Cabaret

Cabaret style is where delegates are seated around round tables with an open end towards the stage. This allows the delegates a clear view of the presentations and/or speakers.

Pros
• Great for interaction with delegates around the table
• Easy for delegates to take notes
Cons
• Will need to hire a larger room as Cabaret takes up a lot of space
• Can cost more as venues may charge more for table and linen hire

Good for – Training sessions & Team workshops

Boardroom

Boardroom is an ideal layout for a smaller group who will spend most of the session talking amongst each other or listening to one or two speakers. When using boardroom a projector screen is usually not used however this is not always the case.
Pros
• Great for interaction between delegates as they all face inwards
• Good amount of space for work
Cons

• Doesn’t work for larger groups
• Not ideal for Presentations using AV equipment

Good for – Small meetings, Interviews, Discussion groups

U-Shape

The name says it exactly how the layout is. Chairs and tables arranged in a U-Shape with an open end and delegates facing inwards.

Pros
• Having an open end gives a perfect presentation area
• Allows the speaker to engage with the delegates
• Interaction within the delegates is greater as they are facing each other

Cons
• Some delegates will be facing the of the presentation

Good for – Training seminars, Workshops, Conferences

Classroom

A classroom layout emulates the seating found in schools. This consists of a trestle table in rows which 3 chairs behind each.