Seating Capacity
For estimating the maximum seating capacity per square foot of a room, use the following formulas:
For Banquet Seating
With oblong (banquet) tables, divide the room area in square feet by 8
With round tables, divide the room area in square feet by 10
For more comfortable seating (if space is available), allow an additional 2 sq ft per person.
For Classroom Seating
Divide seating area in square feet by 8
For Theatre or Cathedral Style Seating (in rows)
Divide spectator seating area in square feet by 6
36" distance between rows of chairs should suffice for aisle comfort
The above calculations are meant to be used for a quick, general approximation and do not allow for problems caused by service doors, unique room shapes, locations of columns and wide traffic aisles.
Seating capacity of a room will also vary depending upon type of table service and type of event.
Facility Space Requirements
Square Footage Required per Person by Event Type
Cocktail Parties (stand up) 5 - 6 square feet
Cocktail Parties (some seated) 8 square feet
Dinner (using round tables) 10 square feet
Dinner (using banquet tables) 8 square feet
Cathedral Seating (in rows) 6 square feet
Dance Area 2-4 square feet
Dance Floor
When dancing and entertainment is included in an event, rarely is everyone on the dance floor at one time. Figure 2-4 sq ft per person on the dance floor and approx 100 sq ft for the DJ/Band area.
Most floors come in 3 ft x 3 ft sections. Using an average of 3 sq ft for each person on the dance floor, you can use the following as a guide:
Dance Floor Size & No. of Guests
12ft x 18ft - 72 guests
15ft x 18ft - 90 guests
15ft x 24ft - 120 guests
15ft x 30ft - 150 guests
28ft x 28ft - 260 guests
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