More Than Desks and Chairs: Furnishing Your New Office for Optimal Efficiency

A new office gives you an opportunity to organize your workspace in an efficient and convenient way. Whether or not some office furniture, like a desk and chair, are provided or you buy all the furnishings, you can arrange the area to suit your aesthetic preferences and workspace style.

Seating

If you are buying one, choose an ergonomic office chair that accommodates your preferred seating position and size. A chair with rollers helps to keep you mobile and flexible when talking on the phone, greeting someone at your office door, or looking for a credenza file. Depending on your office size, try to fit two visitor chairs across from you. They can be simple or sturdy, but look for a style that fits your office décor.

Storage

Look for compact storage cabinets and shelves to keep office supplies and documents handy but out of the way. For a clean, neat look, wire shelving comes in multiple tier options with open sides and see-through shelves that let you see everything stored there at a glance. Some units are available on wheels for mobility. There are attractive, professional-looking designs that will fit with every type of office décor. They can be used for supplies, records, or decorative items like plants or photos.

Lighting

Some people prefer working at a computer in dim light while others prefer bright lights overhead. An office with a window equipped with blinds or drapes can help to adjust the light depending on the time of day and the outside weather. You may want the window to blend in with the wall to avoid being a distraction, or you might prefer to enhance the window with a valance or colored blinds. Table lamps or wall sconces can enhance the existing lighting as well as establish ambiance for various types of tasks and meetings.

Equipment

With many types of office equipment now available, you can organize your computer, printer, fax machine, and copier in a variety of configurations to fit the available space. Cordless keypads offer flexibility in your laptop or desktop computer placement. Other components may be stackable to save space or combined as a single unit. For example, a printer that copies, scans, and faxes documents is more convenient than getting a printer, scanner, and fax machine.

Spending several hours daily in one location to do a job can feel restrictive. Be creative in organizing your work area so that it fits your job needs while providing adequate comfort and convenience.