A Guide for Buying Executive Office Desks
The environment around them influences how individuals function. Organizations should give due consideration to the desks they purchase as they dominate the space they are in. Factors like material, functionality and aesthetics should be taken into account when making this purchase.
The furnishings and decor of a space influence how people occupying that space feel. The surrounding environment has a direct impact on an individual’s mental state. For instance, interrogation rooms are deliberately designed to be sparse and empty. The suspect is generally provided with an uncomfortable chair and the temperature is kept cold. This is done to heighten a suspect’s feeling of isolation, their desire to leave the room and their dependence on the interrogator (Layton, 2016). While this is a stark example, it demonstrates how the environment can affect an individual’s mental acuity. This is why organizations should pay careful attention to the furnishings they purchase for the workspace.
Of particular importance are executive office desks. These desks are used by employees that are higher up in the corporate hierarchy who have more responsibilities and may even interact with clients. Since executives spend large amounts of time in their office, the desks they are provided with should be functional, aesthetically pleasing and project the right image. Mentioned below are a few points organizations should keep in mind when purchasing such desks:
Material
Executive office desks can be made from a variety of materials. The most common type of material used is wood or high quality particle board with a veneered finish. Solid wood executive desks work well for businesses such as law firms that want to project a traditional and prestigious image. Glass desks are a good choice for more creative businesses like PR firms. Particle board desks are a good choice for start ups and business that have a high volume demand. These types of desks look smart, are lightweight and easy to move around.
Dimensions
The desk generally dominates an executive office space. It is the first piece of furniture that the eye will go to when someone enters the office. This is why it is important to get the dimensions of the desk right. A desk that is too big will look awkward and unwieldy. It can also make it difficult to navigate in the space. A desk that is too small will make the office look empty.
Functionality
Some thought should also be given to the functionality of the desks. Organizations are recognizing the importance of ergonomics. Investing in a desk that is designed with ergonomic principles will be a good long term decision. Business can also give executives the option to stand and work by investing in adjustable height desks. Standing and working for part of the day is better for an individual’s health. It can also spark creativity (Herman Miller, 2016).
Aesthetics
Another equally important consideration is the actual aesthetics of the desk. What colour should it be? There are different design options to choose from. Organizations can choose straight or curved executive desks. These decisions are important as the aesthetics will influence the feel of the environment. Organizations should think about the image they want to project and what their company identity is when they are making aesthetic decisions. The materials, colours and designs chosen should match the company image and reflect its brand values.