Lobby seating has ceased to be an afterthought. These new designs ensure comfort for employees and guests alike, offering options for using laptops and tablets, catching up on reading, or even taking a break-making sure that a lot can happen while you’re waiting:

Team by Cascando: The new Team collection includes dozens of seating elements and accessories for lobbies, lounges, and offices. Back panels can increase privacy, while holders for magazines, brochures, and plants add a welcoming touch. www.cascando.nl

Reception Desks by Sedus Stoll: This collection is designed to be both ergonomic for workers and welcoming to visitors with a module available in combinations of gray and white and colorful trays that drape over the desk surface. www.sedus.com

Lobby by Mitab: Designed by Form Us With Love, the wide Lobby Bench and shelf-equipped Sofa (pictured) foster a range of activities, including laptop and tablet use. www.mitab.se

Archipelago by TECNO: Archipelago makes several island-like permutations possible with two- and three-seat sofas, chairs and side tables, which can be connected or left free-floating to support changing arrangements. www.tecnospa.com

Rolf Benz 290 by Rolf Benz Contract: From Stefan Behnisch of Stuttgart’s Behnisch Architekten, the 290 range is a modular collection designed for relaxed public seating in spaces large and small. Options include exposed solid wood arms, various back heights, and wide and narrow connecting tables. www.rolf-benz.com