What is Bench Desking?
Bench desking is a modular desk system where multiple workstations share a common structural frame. Unlike traditional freestanding desks where each person has their own four-legged desk, bench systems use shared legs and support beams, creating a streamlined, efficient workspace.
How Bench Systems Work
A bench desk system typically consists of a "starter" unit and "add-on" units. The starter unit is a complete desk with its own frame. Add-on units share one leg set with the adjacent desk, reducing the total number of legs needed and freeing up under-desk space for pedestals and user movement.
Most bench systems can be configured as single-sided runs (desks in a row along a wall) or back-to-back configurations (two rows of desks facing each other). Back-to-back is the most common layout in open-plan offices as it maximises density.
Benefits of Bench Desking
Space Efficiency: Shared legs mean fewer obstacles under the desk and a smaller footprint per workstation. A typical bench system uses 10-15% less floor space than equivalent freestanding desks.
Cost Effectiveness: Fewer legs and support structures mean lower material costs. Bench systems are typically 15-25% cheaper per workstation than freestanding desks of comparable quality.
Cleaner Aesthetics: With fewer legs and a unified frame, bench desking creates clean sight lines across the office floor, contributing to a more modern, professional appearance.
Cable Management: Most bench systems include integrated cable management with central cable trays, scalloped cut-outs, and cable ports as standard.
Choosing the Right Bench System
Consider the following when specifying bench desking:
Desktop Depth: 600mm is suitable for single-monitor use, 700mm for standard dual-monitor setups, and 800mm for intensive screen-based work or where deeper desktops are preferred.
Desktop Width: 1200mm is the minimum recommended width. 1400mm and 1600mm provide more comfortable workspace and are the most popular sizes for contract office environments.
Frame Type: Goal-post frames are the most common and cost-effective. A-frame and cantilever frames offer a more contemporary look. Some premium ranges feature sliding tops for easy cable access.
Accessories and Add-Ons
Complete your bench desking installation with screen dividers for privacy, monitor arms for ergonomic screen positioning, desk-high and under-desk pedestals for personal storage, and cable management accessories like vertical cable drops and power modules.
Need help with your furniture project?
Our specialists can guide you through the entire process.
Get in Touch