An Office Desk for Every Activity

 

In today’s digital world just about every household and office building has a good variety of desks and tables. Desks are not just used to write or eat at anymore, but to hold computers, store documents and have meetings around. A wood desk has evolved from a simple worktop with 4 legs to an array of different shaped units with built-in cabinets, drawers, and shelves. Finding the right desk for you will depend on what work you need to do it at, your available space and storage needs. 

Here is a list of the different types of offices desks which are best suited to the office environment, that you could choose from.

Single Desk:

A single desk is easy to assemble, made up of only a basic worktop and supported by thin legs. Also known as a writing desk. Not made to carry heavy computers or equipment, this desk is better suited to students for studying and writing or for laptop use.  Often styled in a minimalistic fashion with little to no storage, perhaps including only a drawer or two below the worktop. A modified single desk consists of shelving or cupboards which act as the worktop support. This solution is also known for containing a mobile Pedestal as this may be the solution for users who have basic desktop needs but want built-in storage to keep everything in one place. 

 

Executive Desks:

Executive desks are generally used to create a regal, professional atmosphere in executive offices. These desks are larger and spacious and are often made from solid wood. Available as a single desk or in an l-shape, these desks can be personalised to suit your style. They also allow room for elaborate leather chairs.  Executive desks offer ample storage space which is generally lockable for sensitive documents or items. As a matching set, an Executive Office Suite comes with a desk, a credenza or pedenza and commonly accompanied by a bookshelf.

 

Managerial Desk:

A Managerial Desk is made up of a desk with a connected storage cupboard and drawers. They offer a smaller working space so are better suited to laptops than desktop computers. The cupboard space is sufficient and practical for general office filing. For the Home Office, a modern style managerial desk can be used as a decorative piece of functional furniture. Often used in the living room and available in a variety of solid wood or veneer finishes. They can also be added to an executive office for additional table space if needed. 

 

Dual / Cluster Desks:

A cluster desk for example a 2 way face to face is a cluster of desks used for modular working spaces. They are best suited to an open-plan office environment to seat employees or in a family room where more than one child needs to study. They are often used to compartmentalise the office into teams/departments. Each desk consists of a worktop and either a drawer or credenza for storage. They are separated by modular partitions and create private cubicles for each employee. 

 

 

Standing Desk:

Many people who use desks for work purposes are becoming aware of the health problems associated with sitting behind a desk all day. The seated position places 3 times more pressure on our lower back than when standing. Resulting in back pain, concentration issues and long-term damage. Thus, the Standing Desk has become a popular solution for those who prefer to ‘sit stand’ when working. They are often height adjustable so they can be tailored throughout the day to suit the posture you intend to work in. Some standing desks come at a set height and are not adjustable. These are better suited to someone who needs to move freely around their workspace or who only stands at a desk for short periods of time. 

 

Reception Desk:

A Reception Desk is made up of a Credenza Desk with a raised front end that creates a counter. This counter is used to serve clients and guests who arrive at an office or hotel. A receptionist’s duties vary from answering phones to working on company documents or with money. This counter acts as a screen from guests, giving a receptionist some privacy while they work. The desk is often sturdy enough to hold a desktop computer, a monitor and printer. 

While the above desks can be used in a home office, the following are better suited to a home environment due to their compact and decorative nature.

Computer Desk:

A computer desk is designed to house all technical equipment and cables. They often have enough space to hold the computer tower, the monitor, printers, and keyboards. These desks are practical and offer organised efficiency for avid pc users. With technology advancing rapidly and more people using laptops instead of desktop computers, these table may not be necessary unless your setup calls for it.

 

Boardroom Tables:

Every company has a meeting room of some sort. The table you choose not only makes a statement about your company’s personality and reflects your values, but it also sets the tone of the room. Boardroom tables are available in a variety of sizes and styles, each fit to a specific purpose. Where some may need a standard table for discussion, others may need tables with cable ports for audio visual setups. While circular desks are better suited to brainstorming sessions, a rectangular desk implies the need for concentration and respect. Your boardroom table should be spacious enough to fit everyone comfortably, including their notebooks, laptops, and drinks.

 

Benching Desks:

Unlike cluster desks, benching desks are long rectangular desks used for sharing workspaces. They are minimalistic, cost effective and economical in design. These desks can be placed next to each other in an open plan space to create multiple workstations. While best suited for call centres these desks can be used for departments where collaboration is needed like marketing. They are also popular in ‘hot desking’ offices.

 

Veneer vs Melamine Desks:

When purchasing office desks, you will no doubt be confronted with the choice of melamine or veneer finishes. Both consist of a thin layer of product bonded to a MDF wood or chipboard. A Melamine layer consists of a thin man-made plastic which is bonded to the base board. It is easy to clean, cost effective and lightweight. The benefit of Melamine is that the large range colours or patterns are printed and matched exactly to ensure a uniform finish. Every desk will look the same. Veneer on the other hand is thin layer of solid wood which is bonded to a base board. Veneer may be slightly more expensive, but it is the more cost-effective solution if you are wanting to bring a ‘natural wood’ element into the office. With each layer being a unique piece of wood, the colour and grains may vary.

 

At Desk and Chair, we offer a wide variety of desks including Cluster, Single, Managerial and Executive Desks. Visit our Midrand Showroom where our sales team are ready to help you choose an office desk for your needs.