As a business, government, and cultural hub, there’s no shortage of meeting spaces in Washington, DC.
But when it comes to sifting through all of the meeting spaces in DC and finding the right one for your needs, there’s a lot to consider.
The right space can help elevate your meeting productivity, foster collaboration, and even leave a positive impression on important clients and stakeholders.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the best meeting spaces in DC and share what to consider when choosing the perfect venue, whether you’re planning a formal presentation, a brainstorming session, or a hybrid meeting.
Understanding the Different Types of Meeting Spaces in DC
When researching options for meeting spaces in DC, you’ll typically find yourself researching four main types.
Traditional Meeting Rooms
A traditional meeting room is a great option for hosting a formal presentation or larger gathering, like a board meeting or annual general meeting.
These meeting rooms have historically been found in places like hotels.
In general, traditional office spaces typically require you to book well in advance, so you’ll need to plan ahead if you want to lock down a traditional meeting space in DC.
Virtual Meeting Rooms
Virtual meeting rooms are a technology-based solution that exists entirely online. They’re ideal for 100% remote teams that need to log on from dispersed locations.
Virtual meeting rooms are convenient for remote teams and don’t require the team to travel.
That said, it’s important to ensure all the attendees have a solid internet connection, a good quality camera and microphone, and a distraction-free area to take the call.
Hybrid Meeting Rooms
A hybrid meeting room is a great option for meetings that’ll have a combination of in-person and virtual attendees. Hybrid meeting rooms have ample space for in-person attendees to sit comfortably, but they also come equipped with technology like cameras, microphones, and screens for screen sharing to include virtual attendees.
Meeting Rooms in Coworking Spaces
Coworking spaces have been surging in popularity and availability in the last few years, making turnkey, fully-appointed, on-demand meeting rooms in DC easier than ever to access.
Meeting rooms in coworking spaces offer a greater amount of flexibility, giving you on-demand access to rooms when you need them. They come fully equipped with the equipment and technology you need to appear professional, including AV equipment, phones, and high-speed WiFi. Plus, when you invest in a coworking space, you get access to the other perks and benefits of the space, like cafe service.
What to Consider Before Booking a Meeting Space in Washington, DC
Before booking a meeting room for your next meeting, there are a few important factors to consider to ensure you choose the best one for your needs.
Get Clear On the Purpose of Your Meeting Room
Before booking your meeting room, consider the reason you’re having the meeting. Are you planning to bring in a large group to collaborate and brainstorm? Or are you doing a formal presentation to clients? These scenarios and others will call for different amenities and room setups.
Estimate the Size of Your Meetings
Getting a meeting room that’s much larger than you need can be a waste of budget. Before deciding on a meeting space, consider how many attendees your meetings will have. It’s important your meeting room is spacious, and there’s enough space for everyone to sit comfortably.
Anticipate the Meeting Duration
Depending on if your meetings are short or long, you may want a different space. If you tend to hold longer meetings, it’s important to invest in a space that will help improve productivity – not decrease it. Rooms with comfortable ergonomic chairs, easy access to washroom facilities, and a great space to take breaks can make a huge difference for multi-hour or multi-day meetings.
Key Features to Look for In a Meeting Space in Washington, DC
Not all meeting rooms are created equal. Here are important features and selling points you should consider before landing on a meeting space.
Amenities
Amenities are more than just a bonus – they can help your meeting space feel more warm and inviting to your team and clients. Meeting spaces that include kitchen access with free coffee, tea, and filtered water are a great way to ensure your attendees are taken care of.
Also, look for meeting rooms that have staff on-site to greet your guests, direct them where to go, and wish them a good day. Staff can also clean up after you when your meetings are done, making it easy to close out your work day.
Flexible booking
If you don’t need to run meetings every day but still want a professional environment to bring clients and stakeholders to, consider a meeting space that offers flexible, on-demand, by-the-hour, booking. Meeting rooms in coworking spaces make it easy to book a room when you need it, so you’re not incurring unnecessary costs as your meeting room sits empty.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The comfort and ergonomics of a meeting room can make a huge difference in your attendees’ ability to stay focused and engaged. If you’re planning on hosting longer meetings or spending a lot of time in your meeting rooms, make sure to opt for a space with chairs that are comfortable.
Chairs aren’t the only important part of comfort, though. Size is also important. If the room is too small for the number of people, it may become hot and stuffy. Make sure to choose a room that leaves some breathing room and has good climate control to keep the temperature at a comfortable level.
Technology and equipment
Look for a turn-key space that comes equipped with all the technology and equipment you need to host your meetings. Furnishing and equipping a meeting room from scratch can be expensive.
Some meetings require more technology than others. If your meeting is discussion-based, you might not require much technology. However, if you plan to share a presentation or conference in virtual attendees, you should choose a room with the right technology.
Here are some examples of technology to consider for your meeting rooms:
- Video conferencing tools (high-definition camera, quality microphones, speaker system)
- Audio-visual equipment (projector, screen, sound system, cables, adapters)
- Internet connection
Accessibility and Location
Ensuring your meeting space is easily accessible is important. If you’re frequently inviting clients to meetings, you’ll want to choose a space close to a central business area. If your meeting space is mostly for employees, choosing a location with adequate parking and access to public transportation can make it easier for employees to make it on time.
Top Meeting Spaces in DC
No matter the type of meeting you want to hold, Launch Workplaces has well-equipped meeting spaces in the Washington, DC area. Here are some of our top locations:
Glover Park, Washington, DC
Nestled in the Glover Park neighborhood of Washington, DC, Launch Glover Park offers the perfect blend of urban and suburban convenience. Just one mile from Georgetown, you can enjoy the perks of meeting in the city without the hassle of a downtown commute.
The Ring Building, Washington, DC
Launch at the Ring Building provides prime meeting space in Washington, DC for urban professionals. Just a 5-minute walk from Dupont Circle Metro, it offers all-inclusive pricing and customizable offices to help you thrive in the heart of the city.
The Watergate Complex in Washington, DC
Overlooking the Potomac with views of the DC skyline, Launch Watergate combines prestige and history in the iconic building tied to the Nixon-era scandal. This sought-after Northwest Washington location offers the energy of downtown paired with a suburban feel.
The Navy Yard District in Washington, DC
Launch Workplaces Navy Yard is a brand-new, modern space in the vibrant Riverfront neighborhood of the Navy Yard district. Located on the 8th floor of an 11-story building, it features a green roof deck terrace and an onsite fitness center.
Find the perfect meeting space in DC for your needs. Get in touch to learn more about Launch Workplaces’ meeting spaces in DC today.
