Choosing the Right Office Desk
Selecting office desks is one of the most impactful decisions you will make when fitting out a workspace. The right desk improves productivity, supports employee wellbeing, and makes a statement about your organisation. This guide walks you through everything you need to consider.
Understanding Your Requirements
Before browsing products, take time to understand your specific needs. Consider the number of workstations required, the type of work being done, and the available floor space. A call centre with 200 agents has fundamentally different desking needs to a design studio with 20 creatives.
Types of Office Desks
Bench Desking is the most popular choice for modern open-plan offices. Bench systems share legs and support structures between adjacent desks, reducing material costs and creating clean sight lines across the office floor. They are ideal for teams of 4-20+ people working collaboratively.
Sit-Stand Desks are increasingly specified in new office fit-outs. Electric height-adjustable desks allow users to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day, reducing the health risks associated with prolonged sitting. Modern sit-stand desks can adjust from around 650mm to 1300mm in height.
Executive Desks are larger, more substantial desks designed for private offices. They typically feature premium finishes like walnut or oak veneer, and often include built-in cable management and modesty panels.
Key Specifications to Consider
Desktop Size: Standard desk depths are 600mm, 700mm, or 800mm. For dual-monitor setups, 800mm depth is recommended. Width starts at 1000mm for compact desks and goes up to 1800mm for executive models.
Material: MFC (Melamine Faced Chipboard) is the industry standard for commercial desks. It offers excellent durability, is easy to clean, and comes in a wide range of finishes. Premium desks may use real wood veneer or solid wood.
Cable Management: Good cable management is essential in modern offices. Look for desks with cable ports, cable trays, and central cable hubs for bench systems.
Planning Your Layout
Work with your desk supplier to create a space plan before ordering. A good supplier will provide free CAD layouts showing how desks fit within your floor plate, ensuring optimal use of space and compliance with building regulations. Most commercial offices should allow 6-8 square metres per workstation.
Budget Considerations
Office desk prices range from under £100 for basic home office models to over £2,000 for premium executive desks. For commercial fit-outs, expect to budget £250-500 per workstation for standard bench desking, £400-800 for sit-stand desks, and £600-1,500 for executive desks. Always factor in delivery, installation, and accessories like monitor arms and cable management.
Lead Times and Delivery
Stock items can typically be delivered within 3-7 working days. Made-to-order products from UK manufacturers usually take 15-25 working days. For large projects, plan 6-8 weeks from order to completion including installation time.
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