EVENT & SPACE PLANNING GUIDE: AN INDEX TO CAMPUS FACILITIES & SERVICES | 11
Setups with Chairs
Auditorium (Theater) Style
Used for lectures. The focal point of the function is the elevated platform or lectern at the front of
the room. Chairs are set in rows facing a platform, lectern or head table
Variations of the auditorium style setup include:
Auditorium style with or without center aisle,
Crescent style (chairs in semicircular arrangements) with or without center aisle,
Crescent style with 4 sections facing each other with aisles (setup used for Faculty meetings)
“V” shape.
Crescent style variations allow for discussion.
Can accommodate large groups
Good for A/V presentations
Attendees cannot take notes unless there are folding tablet arms
For large groups, sight lines are bad for members in the rear unless these sections of the audience
have been placed on risers or the floor slopes up toward the back of the room.
Setups with Tables and Chairs
Classroom Style
Used for lecture sessions and for note taking. Attendees are seated at tables facing the speaker.
Variations: with center aisle, without center aisle, tables set in a “V” shape.
Good for A/V presentations
This setup uses a large amount of space.
Conference Style
Used for meetings and idea exchange. Can also be used for meals.
Attendees are seated around a table(s). Specify the type of table arrangement desired.
Hollow Square
Self-explanatory. Chairs are placed on the outside only. Similar to U-Shape. Used for idea
exchange
Creates a feeling of equality among participants.
Difficult to use A/V equipment No matter where the equipment is placed, some members are
forced to turn their seats around.
U Shape
Used for board meetings and idea exchange. A horseshoe-shaped arrangement of tables.
