Please select the store closest to your shipping address.
Store Select

Spatial Clearance for Offices: A Guide for Maximizing Workspaces Without Overcrowding

Spatial Clearance for Offices: A Guide for Maximizing Workspaces Without Overcrowding

Can I squeeze another desk in this space? Should we get a bigger boardroom table? Are there enough chairs in our reception area?

If you’re asking these questions, chances are you’ve been tasked with creating an office space that’s comfortable, efficient, and addresses the changing needs of your business. There’s a lot to think about when balancing limited space with budget, but putting some thought into it at the beginning will head off issues in the future.

Giving your team and clients the right amount of space is an essential part of creating a productive work environment. When the office layout is thoughtfully designed with adequate spatial clearance for movement and traffic flow, it can improve communication, promote well-being, and support the flow of your business. It’s not just about physical comfort, it’s also about making sure that everyone can perform at their best, resulting in higher job satisfaction, improved efficiency, and better results for your company.

spatial clearance

To help you achieve all of that, we've listed recommended spatial clearances for different types of spaces to help you design an effective office layout.

If you need help measuring your space, download and print our measuring checklist.

Please note that the diagrams provided are for illustrative purposes only and may not be to scale.

Team Workstations and Cubicles

team workstations and cubicles spatial clearance diagram

A - Behind each desk, there should be 36” of clearance. This gives team members space to move around freely within their workstation.

B – If a set of workstations requires a back-to-back seating arrangement, we recommend at least 72” of space between to provide both people with adequate space for movement.

C – For an aisle that forms between workstations, try to leave 42” to 48” for walking. This gives room for two-directional traffic, making the set of workstations easily maneuverable.

D – If you’re not sure where your workstations should start in an open office, make sure that main hallways are at least 60” wide. Traffic tends to be heavier here, so it’s important to allow people to walk side by side or in opposite directions.

Private Offices

private offices spatial clearance diagram

A – To make sure guests are comfortably seated, provide at least 36” of clearance for chairs to go in and out.

B – Give yourself adequate space to get to your workstation with 36” of walking room between the end of your desk and the wall of your office.

C- In any U-shape configuration, or a setup where there’s storage behind a desk, we suggest leaving 48” of space. This space is important for movement within the workstation and to comfortably access the storage drawers or cabinets behind.

Boardrooms

boardroom spatial clearance diagram

A – Behind each seat around the boardroom table, there should be at least 36” to 48” of space. This guideline may make it easier to determine how large your boardroom table can be. The more space you leave, the easier it will be for your team to move around the boardroom.

B – If you're adding storage to your boardroom or reserving space for TVs or projectors, make sure to leave 48” to 60” of clearance between the boardroom table and the storage unit or presentation display.

Reception Areas

reception spatial clearance diagram

A – The space between the reception desk and a storage unit should be 48” to 60” wide. This makes it easy for the receptionist to move efficiently, while giving other staff members room to enter the area without disrupting the front desk team.

B – The transaction area plays a key role in making sure that interactions with clients and customers go smoothly. Be sure to provide 24” to 36” of clearance in front of the reception desk to create the best experience for your guests.

C – Comfort should also be a priority in the waiting area. If you’re putting a coffee table in front of your guest chairs, allow for 12” to 15” in between the edge of the chair and the edge of the table for ample leg room and walking space.

D – Chairs that meet at the corner should be at least 12” apart to provide adequate leg room for each person.

Planning Your Space with Source

If you're looking for a little extra support with planning your office space, Source has got you covered! We understand that flow and functionality are key to a successful work environment. That’s why we offer complimentary space planning services* when you partner with us. Together, we’ll assess your needs, tackle any challenges you're facing with your current layout, and provide tailored suggestions to help make your office the best it can be.

*Some restrictions apply.

How We Can Help

consultation and space planning

Consultations and Space Planning

We’ll get to know your space and understand your team’s workflow, while discussing your vision, including future growth, to create a layout that fits your needs.

pricing and budgeting

Product Selection and Customization

We guide you through our selection of panel systems and supporting products, helping you choose one that suits your space and requirements.

pricing and budgeting

Transparent Pricing and Budgeting

To simplify your decision-making, we’ll give you clear pricing options on products, finishes, and materials to make sure they work within your budget.



Ready to Get Started?

Our goal is to make the space planning and office layout process simple with expert advice and guidance from specialists who are ready to help. Contact us today and let’s get started!

personalized-services