Buying office furniture might seem straightforward, but getting it right first time makes a big difference. The right choices improve comfort, productivity and how a workspace functions day to day. The wrong ones can lead to awkward layouts, uncomfortable seating and unnecessary replacement costs.
Whether you’re planning a full office refit or just replacing a few items, it’s worth thinking things through before placing an order.
Why seeing office furniture in person still matters
Ordering online is convenient, but office furniture isn’t always something you can judge from photos alone. Chairs that look similar can feel very different once you sit in them. Desk sizes can be hard to visualise in a real workspace. Storage that looks compact online may feel bulky once installed.
Seeing furniture in person allows you to:
- Check comfort levels properly, especially with seating
- Compare finishes and build quality
- Understand scale and proportions
- Talk through layout options with someone experienced
For many businesses, visiting a showroom helps avoid costly mistakes and gives more confidence before committing to an order.
Common mistakes businesses make when ordering furniture
One of the most common issues is buying based purely on appearance or price rather than practicality. Furniture needs to suit how people actually work, not just how it looks in a catalogue.
Typical problems include:
- Chairs chosen without testing comfort or adjustability
- Desks that don’t allow enough space for equipment
- Storage added without considering access and workflow
- Meeting tables selected without allowing enough room around them
These are small details, but they affect how a workspace feels every day.
When new furniture makes sense – and when used can be the better option
New furniture is often the right choice when you need specific sizes, finishes or quantities. It gives more flexibility and ensures consistency across a workspace.
However, used or preloved furniture can be a very practical option too. Many items still have years of use left and can offer significant savings while supporting sustainability goals.
In many projects, the best solution is a mix of both – new where precision matters, and good-quality used furniture where it works just as well.
Why chair comfort is often underestimated
Office chairs tend to be chosen quickly, but they’re one of the most important pieces of workplace equipment. Staff may spend hours a day using them, so comfort, adjustability and support matter far more than appearance alone.
A chair that suits one person may not suit another, which is why trying options in person can be valuable. Small differences in seat depth, lumbar support or armrest position can make a noticeable difference over time.
Desk size and layout: the details that affect daily work
Desk dimensions and layout planning are often overlooked, yet they influence how smoothly a workspace runs. Too little surface area leads to clutter. Too much can reduce usable space in the room. Positioning desks incorrectly can also affect access, storage use and movement around the office.
This is where planning before purchase really helps. Even simple layout checks can prevent furniture feeling cramped once installed.
Planning first usually saves time and money later
Furniture purchases tend to last for years, so spending a little time planning beforehand is worthwhile. Seeing products in person, checking layouts and understanding how the space will be used can prevent unnecessary replacements and help ensure the workspace works properly from the start.
If you’re reviewing your office setup this year, it’s worth taking a step back and considering what you actually need before placing an order. Give our team a call on 01952 292606 or pop into the showrooms in Stafford Park 4, Telford.
Office furniture buying FAQs
How do I choose the right office furniture for my business?
Start by looking at how the space will be used day to day rather than just appearance. Desk size, storage access, staff comfort and layout all affect how well an office works. Many businesses find it helpful to review the space first or see furniture in person before placing an order.
Is it better to buy new or used office furniture?
Both can work well depending on your needs. New furniture gives more choice in sizes, finishes and quantities, while used furniture can be a cost-effective and sustainable option. Many offices use a mix of both to balance budget, availability and consistency.
What size desk do I need for an office?
Desk size depends on the equipment being used and how much working space is needed. Too small can feel cramped, while too large can reduce usable space in the room. Checking measurements and layout before ordering usually prevents problems later.
Do I need office space planning before buying furniture?
For larger offices or refurbishments, planning first is usually worthwhile. It helps ensure furniture fits properly, allows for movement around the room and avoids ordering items that don’t suit the layout. Chrisbeon uses 3D CAD planning to visualise this.
