7 Tips for Choosing Office Furniture
Are you tired of feeling stiff while you're trying to work? Does your office furniture make you feel like you're in a bad relationship? Stuck, unsupported, and just plain miserable? We are sure that's eating away at your productivity and enthusiasm.
But there's good news. You can break free from the chains of uninspired office furniture.
All you need to do to transform your workspace is invest in the right furniture pieces.
So, throw away those rickety chairs, toss out those wobbly desks, and get ready to embrace a whole new world of ergonomic bliss.
Know What You Want
Before browsing furniture, know what you want. What goes on in your office daily? Are you a bustling hub of activity with visitors coming and going? Or do you prefer a more low-key vibe?
If aesthetics matter to you (and let's be honest, they probably do), then you'll want to pay extra attention to the style of your furniture. Consider modern, minimalist lines or maybe an industrial vibe.
But don't stop there. The ambiance isn't everything. You also need to ensure your furniture fits your space and needs. Is that fancy new desk worth it if you can't even move around in your office without knocking over a stack of papers?
Put Comfort First
Nine to five on an uncomfortable chair? No way. You have to crush those deadlines and make boss moves. But you won't get far if you sit on a torture device all day.
Sure, it may look sleek and stylish. But if it's causing you backache or making your spine go numb, it's time to reevaluate your priorities. A bad chair can also cause neck and shoulder sprains.
So, make it easy on your body. Splurge on that fancy ergonomic chair with lumbar support that adjusts to your height and weight. Invest in a memory foam cushion, or add an ottoman to rest your feet.
Besides the chair, don't forget to look at the other pieces of office furniture. If your desk is too high or low, you can get a few bookstands and adjustable risers to create a better balance.
Measure Everything Before You Buy
It's a mistake to assume all furniture pieces will fit in your office. Measure everything before you buy to ensure the items won't look out of place.
Double-check doorways and hallways. You don't want to be stuck lifting furniture over your head because it won't pass through the door.
Also, measure the distance between furniture pieces. Will you be able to move around comfortably? Can you reach your keyboard or printer without having to stretch?
Keep in mind that furniture often looks different when it's assembled. So, you must have your space's width and depth in mind to ensure all pieces fit snugly together without looking too cramped or spread out.
Think Long-Term
Office furniture isn't cheap. So, you want to invest in pieces that won't break down after a few months. Look at the materials used in construction. Are they durable? Will they endure wear and tear? Treated wood for desks and tables is a good, long-lasting choice. Similarly, upholstery with reinforced seams and strong metal frames can give you years of peace of mind.
Also, consider any special features you may need. Do you want an adjustable desk for sitting and standing? Or an easy-to-assemble modular system that you can move around if needed? This way, if you decide to rearrange furniture or change the layout of your office, you can easily adjust pieces to fit.
Finally, don't forget to look at warranties. Quality furniture should come with a guarantee covering any damage or defects.
Try Before You Buy
No matter how beautiful a piece of furniture may look, it won't do you much good if you don't like using it. That's why it's essential to test the furniture before buying it.
Sit in that chair, lean back, turn around, and see if it's comfortable. Try out the armrests and make sure you're not straining your back.
The sofas and couches in your lobby must be highly comfortable. There's a high chance your potential clients will be waiting in them while they're in your office. So, make sure to try these pieces out as well.
For the desks, pay attention to the legroom and the height. Is your chair a good fit for the desk? Can you place your keyboard without stretching or contorting yourself into uncomfortable positions?
Also, don't forget to check the drawers and cabinets. Make sure they open and close smoothly, without any squeaks or jams.
Prioritize Functionality and Practicality
Offices need to be functional and practical. Storage space, for instance, is a must. So, don't skip the drawers and cabinets when choosing office furniture. Built-in cable management helps keep all your wires and cords organized. And if you need extra storage, choose pieces that can be easily moved around in case you ever want to rearrange.
Filing cabinets and bookcases are also important for keeping documents, files, and books in an orderly fashion. Space-saving furniture like wall desks and floating shelves that allow you to make the most of a small office.
Similarly, you should also look out for pieces that offer more than one purpose. For example, an ottoman can be used as a footrest or extra seating. Or a desk that doubles as a filing cabinet.
Let Your Brand Shine
Your office furniture should reflect your company's brand. Look for pieces that come in colors and styles that match your corporate identity. Add personality with patterns on your chairs or colorful curtains for the windows. Remember that you also want to make sure your furniture is consistent to look cohesive and professional. So, stick with similar shapes and designs for a uniform look.
Please be in line with your overall color scheme. Choose furniture pieces that match the existing color palette in your office. It'll make the room look balanced and put together. A professional office interior designer can help you find the perfect pieces for your space.
Final Thoughts
Office furniture is more than just a bunch of tables and chairs. It's an extension of your business. So, you must choose it with care.
It's essential to choose comfortable and ergonomic pieces, durable and long-lasting, that reflect your company's brand. And make sure to try the furniture out before you buy it. It's a big investment, and you want to get it right.
Remembering these tips, you can choose the perfect office furniture for your business.