Starting with the Rug: Designing a Welcoming Yet Professional Commercial Reception Space

When it comes to designing a corporate reception area, most people would assume the starting point is the desk, the lighting, or perhaps the layout. But for us, the journey began somewhere a little unexpected — the rug.
Choosing the rug first allowed us to set the tone, colour palette, and style for the entire space. It anchored the room both visually and stylistically, guiding every subsequent decision with a clear direction.
As conveyancing attorneys, our reception area needed to reflect professionalism and trust — key qualities for anyone walking through our doors. That meant opting for a fairly corporate aesthetic with clean lines and muted tones.
The rug, with its subtle texture and grounding hues, created a calm and structured base. From there, the rest of the space took shape organically. We leaned into the neutral palette — soft greys, charcoals, and understated taupes — ensuring the area felt composed and refined.  But we also didn’t want the room to feel cold or uninviting. So, we introduced a pop of warmth through carefully chosen gold and mustard scatter cushions. This simple touch brought a sense of friendliness and balance to the room — approachable without being frivolous, professional without being sterile.
The finishing touch was a large, vibrant plant. More than just décor, it became a focal point, bringing life, texture, and a subtle sense of ease to the space. Plants have a way of softening a room, and in a legal office, that can make all the difference. It quietly reinforces that while we are here to handle serious matters, we are also here to make
people feel at ease.