A GUIDE TO MODULAR AND RECONFIGURABLE CONFERENCE ROOM TABLES
Tables that can be set up in different ways are called many things: modular tables, folding tables, training tables, and reconfigurable tables. We build hundreds of these tables every year for clients who want to use their rooms in multiple ways. Since we offer an unlimited choice of sizes and shapes, we can build you the best solution for your room and meet your functional requirements. Here are the most common questions about modular conference room tables.


What are the best shapes for modular tables?
The most common shapes for modular conference room tables are rectangles, squares, or triangular corners. These allow tables to be set up in rectangular or open-square configuration. We have found that it’s useful to add other shapes to the mix. We frequently make modular conference room table sets that include partial arcs of circles and polygonal tables. These allow a table to respond to oddly shaped rooms, like this NASA facility. Mixed shape tables still allow a variety of uses for the room. Here are some layouts we did for this project.
Even a very simple scheme, with one rectangular size and one polygon, can provide for many setups. When you order a table from Paul Downs, we’ll work with you to figure out what combination of different shapes works best for your room and your different meeting types.
What sizes can you make? Can you do custom?
Most modular conference room table sets include rectangular tables with a 2:1 proportion of long to short side. The actual dimensions will vary: 30” x 60”, 33” x 66”, and 36” x 72” are very common. We frequently use a 3:1 proportion, as it is more efficient. Two 30” x 90” tables seat the same number of people as three 30” x 60” tables, but costs less, as there are fewer tops to make and fewer legs to install. We always look for an opportunity to do the job with fewer tables.
Square tables are also very common. 36” x 36” is the smallest size that works for most situations, as anything smaller results in the users kicking each other under the table. We prefer to make squares in 48” x 48”, 54” x 54”, and 60” x 60” size. These can be used individually to seat 4 to 8 people each, or added together to make a good sized boardroom table.
Sometimes odd sizes are needed, and we’re happy to build whatever solution works best.


How much do modular tables cost?
Like everything we build, table costs are driven by size, quantity, and complexity of design. Laminate tables cost less than all wood tables, and power/data units add expense as well.
It’s hard to give a simple formula that covers every option, but here are some numbers to consider:
- The simplest tables we make start at about $850 each, when ordered in quantity, and consist of laminate tops with simple, non folding metal legs.
- Most of the folding and rolling tables we make will fall in the $900 to $1800 range for each table, again ordered in quantity.
- Our more substantial and elaborate tables will cost more than that. Keep in mind that we’ll work with you to identify designs that fit your budget.
How can I move and store my tables?
If your modular table needs to be changed around frequently or removed from the room, it’s nice to have a folding mechanism and large casters. We usually use mechanisms made in the USA by Gibraltar. These come in a variety of styles and configurations, and all allow for very easy folding and rolling. We like to use a good-sized locking caster on each base. This allows for very easy transit of the tables to storage. Also, our tables can be nested together so that you can put a lot of them in a small storage closet:



Can I get modesty panels?
Folding tables can be made with or without modesty panels. It’s a good idea to include them if you want to restrict sight lines in some configurations, and/or if you want to have a way to hide wiring. The panels can be very simple and small or larger and made to match the top of the table. Modesty panels can be placed in the center of the table when you want to be able to seat people on all sides, or along one of the long sides if you know that you don’t need to do that. Putting the panel along one side allows for a larger panel that provides better coverage. We also make tables with extending modesty panels that allow for full panel coverage or seating on all sides of the table.
How can I attach my tables to each other?
It’s useful to be able to lock tables together so that they don’t drift around in use. We have a variety of under-top connectors that do this. We usually use a Plako connector, which is easy to operate, doesn’t hang way down under the top, and doesn’t have any loose pieces that get lost. Your table will have connectors mounted at both the corners and in the middle of the table so that you can clip them together in all of the useful configurations. We also use other types of connectors when required.


What if I need a multi-use table that looks elegant and substantial?
Many of our clients want the flexibility of modular conference room tables, but don’t like the lightweight feel of folding modulars. We’ve developed a number of designs that can be put together in various ways, while still looking and feeling like a substantial boardroom table:

How do you put power & data in modular tables?
We’ve developed solutions that allow for wiring in any of our modular tables. For a folding conference table, we like the ECA Daisylink unit. This allows for daisy chaining tables together, with only a single plug to the wall. Each Daisylink unit includes (2) AC plugs and (2) USB charging plugs. We provide clips so that you can run the wires either out the end of the table or out the sides. Here’s the underside of a folding table showing the ECA Daisylink. It’s trickier to add full network and video wiring to modular tables. We’ve developed full cases that can be used with Gibraltar folding legs to allow for both easy movement and storage, and heavy wire loads. Many of our more substantial reconfigurable designs are set up with a full set of network, power, audio, and video plugs, hidden under hatches. The base of this type of table must accommodate a lot of wiring, and also include wire ports just under the top that lead from one base to another. Here’s a shot of one of those bases with the doors removed.




Do you have tables for videoconferencing?
While not modular, scissoring tables allow for some flexibility in a room. When closed, they are good for regular meetings where the users need to talk to each other. And when open, these tables are good for videoconferencing. Our scissoring mechanisms use pre-mounted wheels that make the table very easy to open and close. The arms of our tables are usually outfitted with full cases that allow for heavy wiring loads.
The Paul Downs Difference
No mass-produced, cookie-cutter tables here. When it comes to custom conference room tables, Paul Downs is the pinnacle of craftsmanship. We design truly unique meeting and boardroom tables that are hand-crafted to your specifications, from power and data hatches right down to the grain of the wood we use. If you need a conference room table for your business, organization, or school, we’re just a click or call away. Someone from our team will be happy to answer any questions you may have.