Desks come in all styles, shapes and sizes. How do you create or select the best one for you?
Ergonomics
A flat surface for your computer is not the only consideration, don’t ignore ergonomics and comfort. According to statistics, British office workers spend a collective five years of their lives sitting at their workspace. It is important to get your desk right.
A chair needs to fit correctly to avoid awkward sitting positions away from the keyboard. Measure your chair thoroughly and ensure you have enough legroom.
The monitor needs to be placed around an arm’s length away, so think about any space you might lose behind the screen.
Your desk needs to leave enough room where it is placed to allow for Reception Chairs to be placed for visitors to sit and wait until their appointment is ready. You can source the chairs from sites like bestbuy-officechairs.co.uk/reception-chairs/
Desk Shape
Each layout – such as L-shaped, rectangular or corner desk – has different benefits. Consider your home office space and workstyle, but also the possibility that you may choose to move to a different room.
U-shaped desks have plenty of surface space while keeping everything in reach, but need a large room. L-shaped workspaces offer similar benefits and require less space. However, you may be restricted in placement within the room.
Corner desks save space but you will most likely be facing a wall. Rectangular desks are most popular and versatile but can lack surface space.
Working Surface and Storage
Functionality is key. Desks that are high in design but lack storage or organisation might not suit your needs, so make a list of your likes and dislikes of your current workspace and think about the things you are going to place and store there.
• Computer compartments can hide parts but can cause restrictions to airflow
• Holes for electrical cords
• Drawer placement
Quality and Construction
Laminate is the modern, popular choice due to durability and affordability. Steel or metal desks are also durable, with wood as the classic choice, however surface scratches occur easily.
To assess the quality, check the drawers. Drawers should slide easily on sturdy rollers with dovetail construction being stronger than glue or staples. A metal desk should be assessed when the drawers are closed to check for gaps. A long warranty on the desk will also give an idea of quality.