Choosing the right office desk: 7 questions you need to ask yourself

When it comes to choosing the right office desk, there are a number of considerations to take into account. After all, your workspace can have a significant impact on your frame of mind, productivity, and even your health. If you work in an office job, it’s highly likely that you spend most of your day sitting at your workstation, which is why it’s so important to make the right decision. If you need help choosing an office desk, here are seven question you should ask yourself. 1. Will it suit my work? Perhaps the first question you need to ask yourself is whether the desk is suitable for your work. For example, people who use computers should make sure that there is plenty of space for the monitor, screen, mouse and keyboard without the workspace feeling too cramped or causing discomfort. If you work in a creative role and you are someone who thrives on being surrounded by lots of equipment, tools, books and personal items, you probably need to opt for a more spacious desk. On the other hand, workers who like their space to be free from clutter should be able to make do with a more compact desk with hidden storage. 2. Is it ergonomically designed? Another important consideration is whether the desk is ergonomically designed. Desks that have been made with your comfort and convenience in mind can work wonders for productivity and benefit both your physical and mental health. Start by thinking about how much space and legroom you need and whether you will be able to carry out your work efficiently. Remember that desktop items should be within easy reach at all times and should not cause you to strain, bend or stretch. As a general rule, computer monitors should be about an arm’s length away and placed directly in front of you. There should also be a couple of inches between your keyboard and the edge of the desk for your arms to rest while you type. 3. Will it fit in my office? Whether you work at home or in an office, you need to think carefully about the size and layout of the room. Before purchasing a desk, take the measurements of the space to give you a better idea of what will and won’t fit. If you have a lot of space to play with, chances are you can opt for the traditional, rectangle-shaped workstation. However, if your space is limited you may want to consider desks that have been specially designed for smaller rooms. For example, L-shaped and corner desks are ideal for cramped offices and can help make use of awkward areas. Modular desks that can be rearranged into different shapes and sizes can also help you to make the most of the space on offer and can be easily moved to different rooms if you fancy a change of scenery. 4. Do I need extra storage? If you’re lacking space in your office or home, a desk with built-in storage can be handy for keeping paperwork, files, books and other equipment neat and tidy. Many desks come with cupboards, drawers and overhead shelves, and you can even get pull-out surfaces or pedestals that provide extra storage beneath the work surface. Not only can built-in storage keep clutter off your desk, but it can also boost efficiency and make your working day run much more smoothly. 5. What style do I want? As most interior designers would agree, a desk can be much more than a functional piece of furniture. In fact, the way you choose to furnish your workplace can speak volumes about your work style and can even help to reinforce your brand if done well. For that reason, it’s important to think carefully about what kind of image you want to project when shopping for a desk. For example, if you want to exude a sense of sophistication and prestige, a traditionally-styled executive desk would be ideal. If your line of work is more creative and fun, on the other hand, you might want to experiment with more contemporary shapes and styles. Here at Furniture At Work™, we have plenty of different styles to choose from, so you shouldn’t struggle to find something that suits your personal preferences. 6. How long will it last? Another practical consideration when buying a desk is durability. After all, workstations are one of the most used pieces of furniture in an office and therefore need to withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. While it can be tempting to cut corners and buy cheap furniture, investing in a high quality desk now can make work much more pleasurable and can also save you from having to fork out for a replacement a few years down the line. If you want your desk to stand the test of time, make sure you choose hardwearing materials, such as metal, hardwood or plastic, with a sturdy surface and legs. Don’t forget to look at the quality of smaller details such as the corners and the drawer rollers too, as this will give you an indication of how long the furniture is likely to last. The warranty will also give you a better idea of life expectancy. 7. What about other considerations? Finally, there are a few commonly overlooked details you may want to include in your decision making process. For example, accessories like built-in wire holes or channels may seem like a minor point but can make a big difference when it comes to having a functional workspace by keeping electrical cables organised and out the way. The height of the desk is also important. Although most desks are designed to a standard height, if you are tall or require extra legroom, you may need to consider adjustable legs or a standing version for added comfort. Of course, you’ll also need to think about a chair, taking into account ergonomics, quality and comfort. Here at Furniture At Work™, we offer a wide range of high quality and affordable office furniture, so why not browse our website further to find the perfect desk for you?