The history of office furniture dates back to the early twentieth century. During this period, the majority of companies producing furniture were based near reliable sources of timber. For example, in the mid-twentieth century, Michigan’s abundant lumber supply made this state an ideal location to manufacture office furniture. Companies such as Herman Miller, Inc., Steelcase, Inc., and Haworth, Inc. were established in western Michigan, and have remained among the world’s largest office furniture manufacturers. Other notable companies in the United States include Knoll, Inc., and HNI Corp. These manufacturers meet regularly through the Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association.
Office furniture is an important component of any workspace. It serves as a working environment where employees can get work done and stay productive. There are many types of office furniture available, and each has its own unique characteristics and benefits. Ideally, all the furnishings in an office should serve a specific purpose, while also adding aesthetic appeal.
Office furniture includes items such as desks, chairs, cabinets, shelving, and lighting. The most common items for an office are desks and chairs, as these are the main workstations for employees. Moreover, they serve as storage space for files and supplies. Meeting tables, task chairs, and tables are other types of office furniture.
The office furniture industry is a $10 billion industry in the U.S., and is closely linked to the overall economy. The recession in the late 1990s led to the decline of demand for office furniture, which in turn affected the business. However, after a brief halt, the industry saw steady growth through the rest of the decade.
Office furniture is very important for the safety of employees. When used properly, office furniture can reduce the risk of theft and damage. In addition, comfortable furniture increases employee satisfaction and helps in the organization’s image. The right office furniture also gives visitors a good impression of the organization. The best office furniture should be durable and attractive.
Changing needs have influenced the design of office furniture. Environmental concerns have prompted some companies to produce furniture that is environmentally friendly and uses recycled materials. Other concerns include the emission of formaldehyde from particleboard products and chemical waste created during manufacturing processes. In addition, office furniture must accommodate technological devices like printers and digital recording media.
Office furniture includes large furnishings, which can cost hundreds of dollars per item. These items may be durable, lasting as long as five years. Consequently, a business owner should set aside a budget for office furniture. However, this budget can be unpredictable, especially in the early stages. Despite the high initial cost, the cost of office furniture may decrease dramatically after it is established. Furthermore, some companies may never need to replace their furnishings.
When speculating office furniture, it is best to understand the function of each piece of furniture. For example, a workstation must be able to accommodate different people. If a person is working on a computer, they may need to adjust their seat height, while another may prefer a lower one.
