A reception counter must give staff enough room for computers, visitor registers, storage and access-control equipment. It must also leave a clear visitor route and include a section that seated visitors can use. Size and material decisions affect maintenance, accessibility and the first view of the office.
Table of contents
- Start with reception staff and visitor flow
- Reception counter size and height
- Include an accessible counter section
- Compare reception-counter materials
- Plan storage, technology and costs
- Frequently asked questions
- Ready to design your reception in Jaipur?
Start with reception staff and visitor flow
Map every reception task. Count how many employees will work at the counter during the busiest hour.
- Number of reception staff
- Visitor sign-in method
- Computers and phones
- Access-control system
- Courier handling
- Storage
- Printer and scanner
- Security monitor
- Branding and logo position
The visitor should see the reception point from the entrance. Keep waiting furniture beside the route rather than across it.
For a large office such as Urban Office’s 20,000 sq. ft. Formidium Corp project, a two-person counter can separate visitor handling from security, calls and administration.
Urban Office has completed 300+ projects and delivered 17 lakh sq. ft. across Jaipur and nearby Rajasthan cities.
Reception counter size and height
Keep enough staff-side circulation.
| Counter type | Suggested width | Suitable use |
|---|---|---|
| Compact one-person desk | 1,200–1,500 mm | Small office with limited equipment |
| Standard one-person counter | 1,500–1,800 mm | Computer, phone, register and storage |
| Two-person counter | 2,400–3,000 mm | Medium corporate office |
| Three-person counter | 3,600–4,500 mm | Large office or busy visitor facility |
| Curved or segmented counter | Based on shop drawing | Large lobby with several functions |
A working depth of around 600 to 750 mm suits many computer setups.
Allow 900 to 1,000 mm behind one seated receptionist and 1,200 to 1,500 mm where staff pass behind one another.
A standing visitor section commonly finishes around 950 to 1,100 mm high. The internal staff worktop can sit around 720 to 750 mm.
Pro tip: Place cardboard screens at the proposed counter height. Check what a standing visitor can see on the receptionist’s monitor.
Include an accessible counter section
Provide a lower usable section. The office reception should serve standing and seated visitors.
A government-hosted CPWD accessibility checklist checks for a counter section around 760 to 800 mm high, a 400 to 600 mm clear recess below and a clear approach at least 900 mm wide and 1,200 mm deep.
Source: https://discomm.delhi.gov.in/sites/default/files/discomm/tender/annexure_ii_docx.pdf
Place the accessible section on the main visitor route. Avoid locating it at an end blocked by a wall, planter or waiting chair.
Use a matt counter surface, good lighting and strong contrast between the counter, floor and background wall.
The project architect should confirm current accessibility requirements for the building.
Compare reception-counter materials
Use durable materials at hand level. Reception counters face frequent contact, dust, bags and cleaning.
| Material | Main benefit | Main check |
|---|---|---|
| High-pressure laminate | Commercial durability and finish choice | Edge sealing |
| Pre-laminated board | Controlled cost for internal cabinets | Moisture protection |
| Solid surface | Smooth joints and shaped edges | Scratches and weight |
| Stone | Durable counter top | Weight, joints and edge safety |
| Veneer | Natural grain for formal receptions | Polish maintenance |
| Metal and glass | Detailing and branding | Fingerprints and reflections |
Jaipur dust shows quickly on dark glossy finishes. Matt or low-sheen laminates are easier to maintain on large horizontal surfaces.
Protect the lower face from shoe marks, luggage and housekeeping equipment with a recessed skirting or metal kick plate.
Plan storage, technology and costs
Separate active items from long-term storage. Include lockable drawers, courier storage, visitor-card storage, printer shelf, CPU compartment, personal-item space and waste bin.
The monitor should stay below the visitor sightline where privacy matters. Security screens should not face waiting seats.
Provide cable grommets, a horizontal tray, a safe vertical route and ventilation around CPUs or routers stored inside cabinets.
| Reception-counter finish | Indicative cost |
|---|---|
| Basic laminate counter | ₹3,500–₹6,000 per running ft |
| Premium laminate or acrylic counter | ₹5,500–₹9,000 per running ft |
| Solid-surface counter | ₹8,000–₹15,000 per running ft |
| Stone and laminate combination | ₹8,000–₹16,000 per running ft |
| Veneer or custom premium counter | ₹10,000–₹20,000+ per running ft |
These are Urban Office planning estimates for Indian commercial projects in 2026. Curves, lighting, logo panels, stone and hardware affect the rate.
Check our Modular office furniture services.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good reception-counter width for one person?
A width of 1,500 to 1,800 mm suits many one-person counters with a computer, phone, register and basic storage.
How high should an office reception counter be?
A standing section commonly finishes around 950 to 1,100 mm. Include a lower accessible section around 760 to 800 mm, subject to project requirements.
Which material is best for a reception counter?
HPL works well for many offices because it offers commercial durability and easier maintenance.
How much space should be left behind a reception desk?
Allow roughly 900 to 1,000 mm for one seated employee and 1,200 to 1,500 mm where staff pass behind one another.
Should the reception counter hide computer screens?
Sensitive visitor, employee and security information should stay outside public sightlines.
Ready to design your reception in Jaipur?
Urban Office can apply this reception counter size and material guide to your visitor flow, staff, storage and branding. Book a free consultation for reception furniture and complete office interiors.
About the author
Renu Maharshi
Head of Business Development
Renu has 10+ years in corporate business development helping Jaipur businesses across IT, finance, and corporate sectors plan offices that work for their teams. At Urban Office, with 300+ completed projects across Jaipur, Ajmer, Alwar, and Sikar, she helps clients turn business requirements into practical office plans.
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