Salon Furniture & Design

What Material is Used for a Beauty Salon Reception Table?

By Winda Yunita Mar 19, 2025

Choosing the right material for your reception table in a beauty salon is key to creating the perfect first impression. Your reception table isn’t just a piece of furniture—it sets the tone for your entire salon experience. From the moment clients walk in, they form an opinion about your space based on the materials you use. The material you choose affects both the overall look and the long-term functionality of the space. Let’s go through some factors to consider when selecting the best material for your salon reception table.

Factors to Consider When Selecting Materials

When picking the right material for your beauty salon’s reception table, keep these factors in mind:

Durability and Wear and Tear Resistance

A beauty salon sees a lot of traffic. Reception tables are often bumped, touched, and exposed to spills. Durability is important because you need a table that can stand up to the daily demands of a busy salon. Look for materials that can handle wear and tear over time.

Aesthetics and Brand Image

Your reception table is one of the first things clients will notice. It should reflect the vibe and style of your salon. Whether you want a sleek, modern look or a more warm and inviting feel, the material you choose should match the overall atmosphere and brand image of your salon.

Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance

Beauty salons are high-traffic areas, and cleanliness is a must. The material you choose for your reception table should be easy to wipe down and maintain, especially considering the potential for spills, product stains, or makeup smudges.

Budget Constraints

Your budget will guide your material choices. Some materials are more expensive upfront but offer better longevity, while others may be more affordable and easier to replace if needed. Keep your budget in mind and balance cost with quality.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

If your salon values sustainability, choosing eco-friendly materials is a great option. Bamboo, recycled wood, and other sustainable materials not only contribute to a greener environment but also align with your brand’s values.

Popular Material Options for Beauty Salon Reception Tables

Let’s take a look at some of the most common materials used for salon reception tables, along with their benefits.

Wood

Types of Wood (Oak, Walnut, Maple)

Wood is a classic and versatile material for salon reception tables. It can range from light to dark, making it easy to match with any decor. Oak is strong and has a natural texture, while walnut offers a rich, darker hue, and maple gives a clean, neutral appearance.

Finishes (Stain, Lacquer, Veneer)

Wood can be finished in a number of ways to suit your salon’s design. Stains improve the natural grain, while a lacquer finish gives the wood a glossy, polished look. Veneer is a thinner layer of wood applied over a composite core, which is often more affordable while still giving the appearance of solid wood.

Metal

Stainless Steel

If you're aiming for a modern, sleek look, stainless steel is a great option. It’s highly durable and resists rust, making it a practical choice for a beauty salon. Stainless steel’s shiny finish also adds a touch of sophistication to any space.

Aluminum

Aluminium is lightweight, resistant to corrosion, and has a contemporary, minimalist look. It’s easy to clean and can be used for both the base and the frame of your reception table.

Brass

Brass is a warm, elegant metal that’s perfect if you want a luxurious feel. It can be used as an accent on a wooden table or as the main material for a bold statement piece.

Laminate

High-Pressure Laminate (HPL)

Laminate is one of the most budget-friendly options for salon reception tables. HPL is durable, available in a variety of textures and colours, and is resistant to scratches and stains, which makes it a great option for high-traffic areas.

Thermofoil

Thermofoil is a vinyl material that’s heat-moulded to create a smooth, seamless surface. It’s affordable, easy to clean, and available in a variety of finishes. It’s a practical choice for salons that want a low-maintenance, modern look.

Glass

Tempered Glass

Tempered glass offers a clean, modern look and creates a sense of openness in a salon. It’s durable and resistant to heat, which makes it a safe option for busy spaces. However, it can require more maintenance to keep it looking spotless.

Coloured Glass

Coloured glass can add an artistic or branded touch to your reception area. It allows you to incorporate your salon’s colour scheme while maintaining a sleek and transparent design.

Stone

Granite

Granite is a high-end material that offers both durability and luxury. While it can be more expensive than other options, it is resistant to scratches and stains, which makes it ideal for a salon setting.

Marble

Marble brings a classic, sophisticated look to any space. However, it can be more prone to scratching and staining, so it’s not the most practical choice for salons where there’s a lot of activity.

Quartz

Quartz is an engineered stone that’s durable and low-maintenance. It can mimic the look of granite or marble, but it’s less prone to staining and scratching, making it a practical option for a beauty salon.

Combining Materials for Unique Designs

Mixing materials can add character to your salon reception table. Here are some popular combinations:

Wood and Metal

A combination of wood and metal can give your reception table a modern yet warm feel. The wood adds natural texture, while the metal base or accents provide a sleek, contemporary touch.

Glass and Metal

Glass tops paired with a metal base create an elegant, airy design. This combination is ideal if you want a clean, open space in your salon.

Laminate and Wood

Laminate and wood create a balanced, functional design. Laminate’s easy-to-maintain surface complements the natural beauty of wood, giving your salon a stylish yet practical reception area.

Material Trends in Reception Desk Design

Sustainable Materials (Bamboo, Recycled Wood)

Sustainability is becoming an important factor for many businesses. Bamboo and recycled wood are great options if you want to keep your salon eco-friendly while still looking stylish.

Biophilic Design (Natural Materials, Living Walls)

Biophilic design is a growing trend in beauty salons. It focuses on incorporating natural materials and greenery into your space to create a calming and refreshing atmosphere. Using wood, stone, and plants in your reception area can create a welcoming, serene environment for your clients. Living walls—vertical gardens that incorporate plants—are a unique way to add both beauty and nature to your salon, making it feel more connected to the outdoors. If you want your clients to feel relaxed and rejuvenated from the moment they step inside, biophilic design could be a great option.

Minimalist and Sleek Designs

Minimalist design is still going strong in beauty salons. Sleek materials like metal and glass create clean, modern lines and open up the space, making your salon feel airy and spacious.

Tips for Choosing the Right Material for Your Beauty Salon Reception Table

Here are a few tips to help you select the best material for your salon’s reception table:

Consider the Overall Office Aesthetic

The reception table should tie into the overall look and feel of your salon. If your salon has a modern vibe, consider using glass, metal, or sleek laminate. For a more natural, cosy look, wood is a great choice.

Get Samples and Compare Materials

Before committing, request samples of the materials you're considering. This will help you visualise how they will look in your space and whether they will complement the existing decor.

Consult with an Interior Designer or Space Planner

If you’re unsure about the right material for your reception table, a designer can guide you. They can help you choose the best material based on your salon’s size, layout, and style preferences.

Partnering with REM's team of experienced designers, Natural Living offers a salon design service perfect for those looking to open or renovate a salon space. Learn more here.

Conclusion

Choosing the right material for your salon reception table is an important decision. It impacts both the look and the functionality of your space, so it’s worth taking the time to consider all your options. Wood, metal, glass, laminate, and stone each offer their own set of benefits, so think about what works best for your salon’s needs. Keep factors like durability, maintenance, and aesthetics in mind as you make your selection. With the right material, you’ll create a welcoming, stylish environment that sets the tone for your clients’ entire salon experience. Take a look at Natural Living's curated collection of quality beauty salon reception desks here.