Why space planning comes before furniture
Buying furniture before measuring is the easiest way to end up with a cramped office or a half-empty one. A few simple numbers will save you from returns and awkward layouts.
A simple rule of thumb
For an open-plan workspace, many planners allow roughly 6 to 8 square metres per person to cover the desk, chair, circulation and some shared space. Individual offices, meeting rooms and storage need more. Treat this as a starting point, not a fixed rule. Check your lease and local building and safety requirements for anything specific to your premises.
Desk sizes and who they suit
| Desk width | Best for |
|---|---|
| 1,200 mm | Laptop-only work, small rooms, home offices |
| 1,800 mm or L-shape | Two screens, design work or heavy paperwork |
| 1,400 to 1,600 mm | One monitor, paperwork and a phone |
Allow for movement
- Leave about 1 metre of clear walkway between desk rows.
- Allow room to pull your chair back fully without hitting a wall or another desk.
- Keep walkways to exits and fire equipment clear at all times.
Don’t forget the extras
- Storage: Filing cabinets and pedestals take floor space. Plan where they go.
- Meeting space: A small round table can replace a boardroom for teams of up to four.
- Reception or waiting: Even two visitor chairs need space and a sightline to the door.
- Power and data: Place desks near sockets and check cable routes before the furniture arrives.
Three layouts for small teams
- Two-person back-to-back: Desks face opposite walls with chairs back to back. It saves space but is less private.
- Four-person cluster: Four desks pushed together in a block. It is good for collaboration, but needs a wider room.
- Linear row: Desks along a wall. It is simple and works in narrow rooms.
Measure first
Measure the room, draw a quick sketch, and mark doors, windows and plug points. Send us the sketch and the number of people and we’ll suggest a layout and a matching package. Request a quote
FAQs
What is the minimum space per employee? Requirements vary by premises and use. Check the health and safety rules that apply to your building.
What size desk is best for a home office? A 1,200 to 1,400 mm desk suits most spare rooms.
Can you help me plan my layout? Yes, send us your room dimensions and we’ll sketch a layout at no charge.