Let's consider this from a broader perspective.
Many departmental areas of the modern office have zero-article.
We speak of:
-Human Resources,
-IT
-Hospitality
-Maintenance
-Security
-Parking
None of those use "the"...it is just another department. If you add "office" or "department" to the equation, then the definite article does function.
We say..."Call security, ask at reception, get IT to fix it..." Not the HR, the Security etc.
That said, "the reception" sounds like a reaction to a public statement, or what your radio is getting on the airwaves, or the event that occurs after a wedding. It's usage.