6-Seater vs. 20-Seater: How to Choose the Right Size Conference Table

6-Seater vs. 20-Seater: How to Choose the Right Size Conference Table

In the world of Lagos business, size matters, but “bigger” isn’t always “better.” We’ve all been there: squeezed into a tiny huddle room where you have to climb over your boss just to reach the water dispenser, or conversely, sitting in a massive, echoing boardroom that makes a four-person meeting feel like a desert island.

Choosing between a 6-seater and a 20-seater conference table isn’t just about how many people you have on payroll; it’s about spatial geometry and “walkability.” In 2026, as office footprints in hubs like Ikoyi and Ikeja become more premium, getting your dimensions right is the difference between a productive hub and a cramped storage closet.

 

1. Start with the “Rule of 10”

Before you look at a single catalog, grab a measuring tape. The most common mistake office managers make is measuring the room and assuming the table can fill 80% of it.

The Golden Rule: Take the total length of your room and subtract 10 feet (approx. 3 meters). * If your room is 22 feet long, your maximum table length should be 12 feet.

• This ensures you have 5 feet of “breathing room” at each end of the table for the chairperson and any presentation screens.

2. Clearance: The Secret to a Professional Walkway

Nothing kills a professional vibe faster than “the sideways shuffle.” To avoid this, you must account for Clearance Space.

• The 48-Inch Standard: You need a minimum of 48 inches (122 cm) of perimeter space between the edge of the table and the wall.

• Why 48 inches? This allows for a person to be seated comfortably (occupying about 24–30 inches) while still leaving enough room for a colleague to walk behind them without a collision.

• For 20-Seater Boardrooms: In larger rooms where traffic is higher, we recommend pushing this to 60 inches.

3. Matching Table Size to Your Business Goals

How you use the room dictates the table you buy. Here is a quick comparison to help you decide:

Feature	6-Seater (Small/Medium)	20-Seater (Executive/Large)
Typical Length	6ft – 8ft (1.8m – 2.4m)	18ft – 24ft (5.4m – 7.3m)
Best Used For	Brainstorming, Interviews, Quick Syncs	Board Meetings, Stakeholder Pitching
Space Required	~150 sq. ft.	~450+ sq. ft.
Top 2026 Trend	Circular or Boat-shaped for “Equity”	Modular segments for easy Lagos delivery

Pro Tip: If you’re furnishing a Lagos high-rise, remember that a one-piece 20-seater table won’t fit in most elevators. Always opt for modular conference tables that can be assembled on-site.

4. Don’t Forget the “Hidden” Space Eaters

When calculating your fit, remember that the table isn’t the only inhabitant of the room. You must subtract space for:

• Credenzas/Sideboards: Usually 18–24 inches deep.

• Presentation Stands: Ensure your 20-seater doesn’t sit so close to the TV that the person at the end gets a neck strain.

• Door Swings: Ensure the door can open fully without hitting a chair.

 

Conclusion: Measure Twice, Buy Once

A 20-seater table is an impressive statement of power, but only if people can actually get to their seats. If you are tight on space, a well-designed 6-seater often facilitates better communication and faster decision-making.

Ready to find the perfect fit for your floor plan?

Shop conference tables by size and explore our 2026 collection of modular and executive boardroom solutions delivered and installed across Nigeria.

 

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Confused between a 6-seater or 20-seater? Learn how to measure your Lagos office and calculate clearance for the perfect conference table fit.