Small-scale dining
Mar 5, 2026
Design for hospitality in small-scale dining areas
Cafés and other small venues provide opportunities for faculty, staff, and students to cross paths outside the classroom. Hospitality design can create a safe, hierarchy–free place for serendipitous connection. Removing barriers between groups can build community and improve student/faculty satisfaction.
Design considerations
Read on to learn how you can develop small-scale dining areas through research-based design for hospitality.
Protection
Provide warm materials and natural light.
Designate open social areas and private conversation nooks.
Supply reliable power, Wi-Fi, and USB charging.
Intellectual welcome
Plan hierarchy-free furnishings and sightlines for faculty/students/staff.
Provide a mix of seating, including formal tables for working and casual lounge for conversation.
Include art, displays, bookshelves, greenery, and community boards.
Open table
Arrange furniture in ways that enable faculty and students to sit at the same level.
Offer a shared café counter and communal tables for cross-constituency interaction.
Provide flexible layouts that encourage lingering.
Featured products
Designing for hospitality can help these small venues replace hierarchy and territorialism with connection and community. Select products that put people at ease, support their choices, and encourage interaction.
Striad Sofa by Herman Miller
Low-profile and versatile, Swoop Tables complement lounge seating in casual spaces.
Tun Table by NaughtOne
A sturdy table with a cylindrical base and circular top for bold, modern appeal.
Percy Lounge Chair by NaughtOne
A low-profile lounge chair with generous cushioning and a relaxed silhouette.
About A Chair by HAY
About A Chair combines a curved shell and wooden legs for a versatile, timeless design.
Fold Table by NaughtOne
A practical table with a folded steel frame and clean lines, Fold Tables complement modern interiors.
Rey Stool by HAY
Rey Stool showcases rounded edges and a sturdy wooden design for everyday versatility.
Polygon Wire Table by Herman Miller
Designed by Studio 7.5, these tables pair a geometric wire base with a sleek top.
Nelson Bubble Lamp by Herman Miller
Bring the warmth with a range of classic lighting designs from George Nelson.
Hudson Coat Stand by NaughtOne
This minimalist coat stand features a sturdy frame and multiple hooks for convenience.
Doze Lounge Chair by Muuto
Nordic design meets plush comfort in this sculptural lounge chair.
Wrap Lounge Chair by Muuto
Enveloping upholstery and soft contours make Wrap a cozy retreat in any setting.
Girard Flower Table by Herman Miller
Designed by Alexander Girard, these sculptural tables finishes bring playful energy to any room.
Bowler Side Table by HAY
This compact side table features a single tube leg and weighted base for stability.
1966 Dining Chair by Knoll
Outdoor seating with clean lines and durable materials for timeless appeal.
1966 Dining Table by Knoll
This minimalist outdoor table was designed for elegance and lasting performance.
Explore more
Learn more about how hospitality integrates into other areas on campus.
