Today’s workplaces are having an impact on how and why we meet.
With office design largely set up for hybrid working and lower footfall, employees are getting used to the casualisation of their desk space. And it’s having a knock-on effect in events and event design.
Engagement of delegates now features as a top objective for organisers when they are planning their events. Destination Wembley, with its expertise in managing events, brand activations and employee experiences at the 80-acre site, offers insights into optimising seating arrangements for various events.
Here’s our Seating for Meeting guide to help organisers switch up their set ups:
1. WORKSHOP-STYLE SEATING: ENHANCING COLLABORATION
For events centred around brainstorming, team-building, or interactive sessions, the workshop-style seating is recommended. This arrangement, characterised by smaller tables or dedicated brainstorming areas, promotes active participation. Incorporating elements like beanbags or ottomans can further foster a collaborative environment, making it ideal for innovation-driven sessions.
Playbox – BOXPARK Wembley – Energy & Creativity surround them in this sound proof room keeping focus on task in hand
Wembley Suite – Wembley Stadium – Inspiration from a view that has showcased some of the best creativity in music & sport
2. THEATRE STYLE SEATING: FOCUSED PRESENTATIONS
For seminars, product launches, or keynote presentations, the theatre style seating is optimal. This arrangement ensures an unobstructed view for all attendees, facilitating undivided attention to the stage or screen, thereby enhancing the impact of the presentation.
The Grand Hall – The Drum – natural daylight but can also be fully darkened for presentations and screenings. Staging can be located anywhere within the space – offering multiple layout options.
The Grand Ballroom – Hilton London Wembley – Pillar free, and perfect for focused session and great supporting AV
Main Auditorium – OVO Wembley Arena
3. CLASSROOM-STYLE SEATING: STRUCTURED LEARNING
Training sessions, workshops, or events where attendees require a formal setup to take notes or use electronic devices benefit from the classroom-style seating. With tables and chairs arranged in an organised manner, it provides a conducive environment for learning and absorption of information.
The Conference Hall – The Drum
The Bobby Moore Suite – Wembley Stadium
The Grand Ballroom – Hilton London Wembley – Pillar free, and perfect for focused session and great supporting AV
4. WALKING FORMAT: DYNAMIC NETWORKING
For events that aim to facilitate networking or require a less structured format, the walking setup is ideal. This format promotes movement, allowing attendees to engage in one-on-one or small group discussions, making it suitable for networking events or trade shows.
1st Floor – BOXPARK Wembley – Informal and activities to encourage networking
The Grand Hall – The Drum – Indoor/outdoor/lots of natural daylight
5. PAIRED RECTANGULAR TABLES: INTIMATE DISCUSSIONS
For corporate retreats or round-table discussions, paired rectangular tables offer an intimate setting. This setup ensures that participants can engage in meaningful conversations, making it effective for strategy sessions or board meetings.
Pitch View East – Wembley Stadium
The Grand Ballroom – Hilton London Wembley – Can be sectioned off and has breakout space with lots of natural daylight – Pillar free, and perfect for focused session and great supporting AV
6. COCKTAIL STYLE:
Standing room with scattered cocktail tables.
Suitable for informal gatherings and networking events.
Encourages mobility and mingling.
The Winter Gardens – The DRUM
1st Floor – BOXPARK Wembley
The Atrium – Wembley Stadium
7. FISHBOWL: GET THE ENTIRE ROOM TALKING
Take two circles of chairs, an inner circle and an outer circle. The inner circle is known as the fishbowl and comprises 4 – 6 chairs. The outer circle should be much larger to accommodate more people. Those in the inner circle start a conversation among themselves while being observed by those in the outer circle. Individuals can choose to enter or leave the fishbowl (one at a time) and are replaced by someone from the outer circle. This gets the conversation going and the ideas flowing!
Main Auditorium – OVO Wembley Arena
BeatBox – BOXPARK Wembley
Seating for meeting isn’t just about logistics – it plays a pivotal role in achieving the objectives of an event. We’re on hand at Destination Wembley to give input and show best practices in event design so that you can achieve a sound return on investment.
With 26,500 sqm of event space and capacity for 20,500 – we’re full of good ideas!