Desk Dimensions and Their Influence on Staff Performance

Desk dimensions: height, width, depth

Standard dimensions are those related to:

• Height;
• Width;
• Depth.

The photo below illustrates a common desk for an office space.

Height, Width and depth are the values insuring an employee’s comfort in working with both a computer and documents. If activity involves more extensive work at the desk, you should choose larger surfaces. However, you should not get carried away. Overdoing things is rarely appreciated.

The average value of desk depth should be within 23-31 in. A pedestal depth should not be less than 23 in. It is highly important as the position of the legs is directly connected with how long a worker can remain seated.

Let’s have a closer look at the roles of each parameter.

Height

It is one of the crucial characteristics that should be approached very carefully. Making a wrong choice in selecting height will cause the following problems in no time:

• Eye discomfort;
• Spinal curvature and droop in shoulders;
• Rapid fatigability;
• · Stiff legs.

In other words, height affects body position and health that then affect work mood and performance.

If you are buying a desk for a senior worker, its comfortable height can be calculated specifically for that person, and furniture might be selected individually for them.

At the same time bear in mind that office furniture should be suitable for a user’s height and weight. Ideally, it should have adjustable legs (for both a desk and a chair). Some modern items have an option for adjusting support legs.

Width

Job specifics are your best friend in this case. However, we do not advise you to give the cold shoulder to average values as bulky desks are not the most comfortable to work at.

The photo below illustrates a perfect example of a comfortable desk.

The size 163x31 inches is suitable for working with both documents and a PC. A well-selected desk may insure comfortable work for an office employee and the right body position.

Regarding corner desks, standard width is 63-67 inches. Narrower desks such as computer desks may be up to 47-51 inches, while straight desks start from 39 inches.

The following factors should be taken into consideration when buying a desk:

• Comfortable positioning of the user at the computer desk (24-37 inches);
• CPU storage (up to 12 inches);
• Filing cabinet (it can also be a mobile drawer unit or shelf up to 16 inches).

Ideally, we want a desk of around 43-65 in. width-wise.

Depth

Depth is also a pivotal parameter since it affects the position of the users’ legs. If kneecaps bump against the wall or panel and feet cannot be comfortably positioned, a worker will quickly get tired and demotivated. All their thoughts will be occupied by the unfortunate dimensions and pain.

Thus, we recommend taking the following into account:

• Classic desks should not be less than 18 in. width-wise (without raising);
• When raising depth might reach 27.5 inches;
• With additional drawers, the minimal depth should be 25.5 inches.

Remember that suitable depth will depend on the desk structure and equipment.

What Should You Pay Attention to When Choosing a Desk?

Apart from dimensions, the following should be considered:

• Material;
• Panel thickness;
• Coating;
• Framing;
• Hardwear;
• Color;
• Design.

A desk with minimum equipment can be made of chip board using element thickness of less than 0.7 inches. The price will indeed significantly decrease, but wear resistance will do too. We recommend prioritizing element thickness starting from 1.5 inches. The thicker, the more reliable. Of course, the price will adjust accordingly.

Manufacturers opt for artificial veneer or laminate to achieve the high quality of coating. These materials are regarded as the most sound.

Laminate or PVC are also the best options for framing. It should not have white stripes and come away easily under only slight pressure.

Useful Tips

We believe that an adjustable chair is an ideal solution. Alongside adjustable height, you can purchase a chair whose backrest will “take on” the shape of a person's spine. It should also have armrests since they are supposed to be on the same level with a desk top according to orthopedists’ recommendations.

Besides, an adjustable chair will ease a user’s life when, for example, a desk is too high or when one and the same workplace is used by employees of different height.

In terms of a desk top, it is better to choose a rectangular one. A rectangular is your guarantee to be able to fit your desk comfortably in a rather small room.

OFH online-shop collection features a wide range of office furniture including desks of different sizes. You can consult our manager and choose the right desk for you, and we will deliver it within NYC.

The store is geared towards absolutely anyone so the desk range will please even the most sophisticated customer.

Conclusion

Carefully approach the purchasing of furniture items considering comfort and job specifics of employees or chief executives. Not only will it keep them healthy preventing the consequences of their sedentary lifestyle, but it will also insure their well-being during a working day.

You can order an office desk with needed dimensions now and our specialists will assemble the item right in your office.