Studies show that Americans visit the doctor about four times a year. With so few visits, impressing your patients when they visit is crucial. Doing so encourages them not only to return, but to return to your practice specifically.

Reception seating is something that we often overlook when handling our practice. Waiting room furniture is one of the most important factors in your medical practice. A good medical practice floor plan can ensure comfort and make a wait less obnoxious.

If you're curious about medical office design, we're here to help. Read on for a brief guide to your reception seating.

Consider Upholstery

One of the first things you should consider is what sort of upholstery you intend to use. Upholstery of your furniture isn't just a stylistic choice.

Plush upholstery can make furniture more comfortable. That's great for longer waits and making sure your patients aren't uncomfortable in your reception. It's also ideal for patients who are visiting with pain to have somewhere comfortable to sit.

However, some upholstery can trap germs and become a detriment to health. Other types of upholstery may require more constant, expensive upkeep. Research what care is necessary for your upholstery before you invest.

Accessibility and Comfort

A big danger to your reception room is to overcrowd the room with chairs. If you have a crowded room, it can pose difficulties to accessibility.

For patients with mobility issues who use crutches or wheelchairs, not having enough room can become aggravating or dangerous. You should leave some room in your floor plan for people in chairs to rest while they wait. There should also be places to lean crutches and canes so patients don't have to hold them.

Additionally, make sure that there are chairs big enough for everyone. Setting your furniture with single small chairs with armrests may stop some people with weight or mobility challenges from sitting comfortably. Put some larger chairs or chairs meant to seat more than one patient.

A Concise Aesthetic

Looking at your medical office design, there should be a concise aesthetic. If you fill your reception with chairs of multiple designs, the room may look cobbled together. Not only is this unpleasant to look at, it can also look unprofessional.

If you have upholstered furniture, you should make sure everything shares that upholstery. Having some that are bare wood, some plastic chairs, and some upholstered chairs can look slapdash.

Additionally, keep your reception seating the same color and style. A mixture of clashing colors and wicker chairs with professional seating will make your reception seating look unprofessional. 

Mastering Your Reception Seating

Reception seating can feel like a small detail, but it has a huge impact on your patients. New patients will see your waiting room furniture as a first impression, while those being patient during long waits will need comfort. Do your best to focus on comfort and accessibility while maintaining a professional aesthetic.

At Arminco, Inc, we're a nationwide all-in-one architecture firm that specializes in medical clinics. We have a skilled staff of designers and consultants to hone your furniture to perfection. Contact us today to see how we can help your reception seating shine.