Choosing the Best Office Furniture for Your Workspace

September 9, 2024

Choosing the best office furniture for your workspace

A well-designed workspace is a catalyst for productivity, comfort, and overall job satisfaction. Choosing the best office furniture for your workspace can transform your work environment from being mundane to becoming inspiring and even efficient. And a place you and your team will be excited to be in.

Let's check into the key factors to consider when choosing the best furniture for your workspace and office, whether it’s a bustling open-plan layout, small office or a hybrid workspace.

Understanding your Workspace Needs

The foundation for selecting the right office furniture lies in understanding your specific workspace requirements. Different work environments demand different furniture solutions.

The modern workplace is increasingly becoming hybrid, furniture in this environment needs to seamlessly transition between in-person and remote work.

Adjustable desks, like the Motia Sit-to-Stand Desk, offer flexibility by allowing employees to switch between sitting and standing positions, promoting better health and focus.

Movable partitions and multi-functional seating create adaptable spaces for both individual concentration and collaborative work.

 

Herman Miller Motia sit-to-stand, height-adjustable dek

Motia sit-to-stand desks allow employees to easily switch between sitting and standing

 

The upside of open-plan offices is that they increase collaboration, the downside...they can be noisy and distracting.

One way to make the space work for you is to consider modular desks, such as the Mode Desk, which you can configure to create different work zones to strike a balance.

Another option to think about: soundproof pods or phone booths, such as The Bay Work Pod by Herman Miller. These are an efficient way to bring a sense of focus and privacy for concentrated work to open plan workspaces.

Community tables encourage teamwork and brainstorming while also providing ample space for shared projects.

 

Herman Miller Bay Work Pod Phone Booth

The Bay Work Bod provides a space for conference calls and privacy in open plan offices

 

Maximizing space without compromising comfort is paramount in small offices. Fold conference tables, work just about anywhere and are ideal space-saver and provide a simple surface with maximum clearance for legs and chairs to fit underneath.

Compact chairs like the SitOnIt Movi Nester award-winning, folding and stacking chair and wall-mounted storage solutions help to optimize limited square footage too.

Beyond the physical layout, consider the work styles within your organization. Are employees primarily individual contributors, or do they thrive in collaborative environments? The office furniture you choose should support these work styles.

Additionally, company culture plays a role in furniture selection. A creative agency might opt for vibrant, unconventional pieces, while a law firm may prefer a more classic and formal aesthetic. 

 

SitOnIt Movi nesting chair

The SitOnIt Movi Nester chair is a great option for small spaces

 

Ergonomics is the science of fitting the job to the person. When it comes to office furniture, ergonomics is crucial for preventing discomfort and injuries and boosting productivity.

A comfortable ergonomic chair, such as the ReGeneration by Knoll®, is an investment in your health and an excellent option to consider.

Features like adjustable lumbar support, height, and armrests ensure optimal comfort and reduce strain on your back and neck.

Sit-stand tables, like the Nevi sit-to-stand table, encourage movement throughout the workday, improving blood circulation and reducing fatigue.

Complementary ergonomic accessories, including footrests, keyboard trays, and monitor arms, can further enhance your workspace setup. 

Remember, even with ergonomic furniture, it's essential to take regular breaks, stretch, and get up and move around.

Functionality: Ensuring Practicality and Efficiency

Office furniture should be functional as well as looking good. The concept of "activity-based working" suggests that different work activities require different furniture setups.

For focused work, a private space with minimal distractions is ideal. For collaboration, communal tables or soft seating areas are more suitable.

Multi-functional furniture, like desks with a storage component or tables like NaughtOne's Morse Table that can expand from an intimate huddle space to a conference table, maximizes space and minimizes clutter.

Adequate storage solutions are essential for maintaining an organized workspace. Cable management systems and built-in charging stations keep your workspace tidy and free from unsightly wires.

Innovative furniture solutions can significantly enhance productivity. For example, smart desks with built-in technology features can streamline workflows and improve efficiency.

 

Herman Miller Nevi table cable management

Herman Miller's Nevi height-adjustable table offers excellent cable management

 

Style Considerations: Creating an Aesthetic Workspace

The visual appeal of your workspace can significantly impact your mood and productivity. Choosing the right furniture style is essential for creating an environment that reflects your personal or company brand.

Color:

The psychology of color is fascinating. Different colors evoke different emotions and can influence mood and productivity. For example, blue is often associated with calmness and focus, while red can stimulate energy and creativity.

Style:

Consider incorporating different design styles into your workspace. A modern, minimalist aesthetic can create a clean and uncluttered feel, while an industrial style can add a touch of edgy character. The key is to balance style with function to create a space that is both visually appealing and practical.

Accessories:

Don't forget the power of accessories. Plants, artwork, and personal items can add warmth and personality to your workspace.

Making smart investments: Budgeting

Investing in higher-quality office furniture may seem like a significant expense, but it's an investment in your long-term well-being and productivity.

High-quality furniture is often more durable, requiring fewer replacements over time. Consider the return on investment (ROI) in terms of increased productivity, reduced employee turnover, and improved company image.

Connect with an Expert

Choosing the best office furniture in your workspace requires functionality, style, and of course, a budget. By investing in the right office furniture, you can transform your work environment into a space that promotes productivity, creativity, and well-being.

Do you have questions about how to transform your office into a space that gets the most out of your teams? Or about how the look and feel of your workspace can help attract and retain top talent?

Contact PURE Workplace today and we'll reach out to discuss actionable insights on how to choose the best office furniture for your workspace.