When it comes to choosing the right desk for you, you might be asking Is a height adjustable (sit/stand) desk/workstation:

Better for your health?
Worth the extra money?
Beneficial?

In the contemporary workspace, standing desks have emerged as a solution to the health concerns of prolonged sitting. This article explores the impacts of standing desks on your body, aiming to guide your decision about your workspace setup.

The Stand-Up Revolution

The growing stand-up revolution is centred around standing desks. These offer an alternative to traditional office setups, aiming to improve health and productivity. From adjustable-height tables to advanced treadmill desks, various options are available to suit individual needs.

Choosing the Right Standing Desk

When choosing a standing desk, consider monitor placement, desk height, chair compatibility, and workspace ergonomics. Additional features like cable management and build quality can also be important. An anti-fatigue mat can provide support during standing periods.

Creating a Balanced Work Environment

A balanced work environment is vital for health and comfort. Incorporate regular breaks from screen time, use comfortable shoes for standing, and adjust your workspace for proper posture. Simple physical activities like short walks or stretches can break up the monotony of sitting or standing.

Additional Recommendations

Alongside using a standing desk, incorporate regular activity into your day, maintain good posture, and use supportive accessories like compression socks if necessary. Regular stretching exercises can help maintain flexibility and improve circulation.

Health Benefits and Risks

Posture and Pain Relief

Standing desks can potentially improve posture and provide back pain relief by engaging the core and back muscles. However, it’s crucial to alternate between sitting and standing, incorporating regular breaks and movement to prevent discomfort and strain.

Productivity and Mental Health

Standing desks can also boost productivity and positively impact mental health. Standing promotes blood flow to the brain, potentially enhancing focus and concentration. However, a standing desk alone does not guarantee improved cognitive function. Healthy work habits, regular breaks, and a supportive work environment are also essential.

Physical Activity and Weight Management

Standing desks encourage movement throughout the day, aiding weight management by increasing calorie burn. Combining standing with other simple exercises or short walks can further enhance the benefits. However, standing desks do not replace the need for regular exercise.

FAQs

Is a balance between sitting and standing necessary?

A: Yes, maintaining a balance between sitting and standing is crucial for health and comfort.

Can standing desks help with back pain?

A: Yes, standing desks might alleviate back pain for some people. However, for persistent or severe pain, consult a healthcare professional.

What’s an effective way to balance sitting and standing?

A: The 20-8-2 rule is a good guideline. It suggests that for every 20 minutes of sitting, you should stand for 8 minutes and move or stretch for 2 minutes.

What are the effects of standing for extended periods?

A: Standing for long periods can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and poor lower body circulation. Regular breaks and movement throughout the day can help mitigate these effects.

How often should you alternate between sitting/standing with a height adjustable (sit/stand) desk/workstation?

A: The 20-8-2 rule is a good guideline. It suggests that for every 20 minutes of sitting, you should stand for 8 minutes and move or stretch for 2 minutes.

How Do I Choose The Right Desk/Workstation?
  • Considerations such as size, shape, and customization options should guide your decision. Make sure the desk can accommodate your equipment and that height adjustments are manageable for you. Create a comfortable, healthy workspace that fits your space and needs.
  • When choosing a standing desk, consider monitor placement, desk height, chair compatibility, and workspace ergonomics. Additional features like cable management and build quality can also be important. An anti-fatigue mat can provide support during standing periods.

 

Electric V’s Manual Height Adjustable Desks/Workstations

  • Electric standing desks offer push-button convenience, programmable presets, and higher weight capacities but come at a higher cost and may have a higher risk of motor malfunction, requiring a power source.
  • Manual standing desks are more affordable and durable, suitable for spaces with power issues or mobility, but demand more effort for height adjustments and have slower adjustments with lower weight capacities.
  • The choice between the two depends on your workspace, switching frequency, and budget, with both options promoting ergonomic benefits.

Dual Motor V’s Single Motor Electric Height Adjustable Desks/Workstations

  • There are many height adjustable (sit/stand) desks/workstations on the market which can make it a daunting task selecting and procuring quality desks/workstations.
  • Single motor desks/workstations are a budget option which use only one motor to power both or all legs. They will generally hold a lot less weight than a dual motor desk/workstation and are more prone to malfunctions due to more moving parts as they have rods that drive the legs up and down from the one motor. This also puts a lot more strain on one motor, which can cause the motor to burn out.
  • Some things to consider when sourcing desks/workstations are, how long has the company been in business and what is the warranty time and conditions. This will give you peace of mind that the supplier will be there for you should you have any product issues.

 

FAQs Electric v Manual desks

 

What distinguishes electric from manual desks?

A: Electric desks use motorized height adjustments; manual ones use hand cranks or levers. Electric desks cost more but offer push-button convenience.

Are there durability differences?

A: Both can be durable. Electric desks may be more prone to failure due to more moving parts, but high-quality ones are built to last.

Which offers more convenience?

A: Electric desks offer more convenience due to motor-driven height adjustment.

How do height adjustment mechanisms differ?

A: Electric desks use motors, often with programmable presets. Manual desks use simpler, less convenient mechanisms.

Does assembly vary?

A: Electric desks might require more assembly time due to motorized components. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe setup.

At Topaz Furniture we offer a range of quality height adjustable desks/workstations with a 10 year warranty and have been in business of over 30 years. You know you can trust us. 😊

Check out our range here!

If you’re looking for a way to improve the sound quality in your office, acoustic panels may be the solution you’re looking for. Acoustic panels are a great way to improve the sound quality in your office. By absorbing sound, and reducing echo, and background noise, these panels can help create a more comfortable and productive office layout. They are available in a variety of sizes and shapes to fit your office. Panels can be installed on walls, ceilings, or floors.

In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of acoustic panels and how they can improve your workplace!

Acoustic workplace with acoustic ceiling and acoustic wall tiles

Cover & Above Image Credits: autexacoustics.com.au

How acoustic panels work

Acoustic panels are designed to absorb sound. They are usually made of acoustic foam or fibreglass and are used to reduce noise in a room or office space.

They can be mounted on walls or ceilings, and they come in a variety of sizes and shapes. The most common type is the rectangular panel, but there are also round, triangular, and shaped like pyramids.

These panels work by absorbing sound waves. When sound waves hit the panel, they are absorbed into the material, which then vibrates. This vibration absorbs energy from the sound waves, reducing their intensity.

The amount of noise reduction provided by a panel depends on its size, shape, and thickness. The thicker the panel, the more sound it will absorb.

If you are looking for an acoustic panel, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  1. determine the size of the space you need to cover
  2. decide on the type of panel you want
  3. consider the noise level in the room or space where the panel will be installed
  4. decide how many panels you need.

They are a great way to reduce noise in a workplace. If you are looking for an effective way to reduce noise, acoustic panels may be the answer.

Dulux Group head office with acoustic panels hanging from ceiling

The benefits of acoustic panels

Acoustic panels can be used in a variety of applications, including workplaces. They can be used to help improve the acoustic performance of a space or to control the acoustic environment. These panels can also be used to provide privacy or to reduce noise pollution.

There are several benefits to using acoustic panels. Some of the key benefits include:

  • improved sound quality
  • reduced echoes and reverberation
  • controlled acoustic environment
  • privacy
  • reduced noise pollution.

If you are looking to improve the acoustic quality and create a comfortable workplace, acoustic panels may be the right solution for you.

Different panel types

There are many different types of acoustic panels, but all do the same basic thing: they help to absorb and diffuse sound. This makes the space quieter and more pleasant to be in, and can also improve the clarity of sound.

The most common type is the acoustic foam panel. These are made from a type of foam that helps to absorb sound. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be attached to the wall or ceiling with adhesive or screws.

Another popular type of acoustic panel is the acoustic curtain usually made from a thick fabric that helps to absorb sound. These curtains can be hung on a wall or ceiling, or used as a partition between spaces.

Acoustic panels can also be made from materials like wood, metal, or glass, all help to diffuse sound and make a space feel less echo-y. Panels can be attached to walls or ceilings with screws or adhesive, or they can be stand-alone pieces that are placed around a space.

The type of acoustic panel you choose will depend on the intended use and the aesthetic you are trying to achieve. For example, acoustic foam panels are often used in places where sound control is critical, while fabric-covered acoustic panels are more commonly used in offices and other spaces where they will be visible. Wood acoustic panels can provide a warm, natural look to a space while also helping to control sound.

Acoustic curtain in open plan office

Installing panels

Acoustic panels can be installed in a variety of ways, depending on the type and size. Smaller ones, such as those used to treat wall reflections, can be mounted using adhesive or screws. Larger ones, such as those used in ceilings or for acoustic treatment of an entire room, may require a suspension system to be properly installed.

No matter what type you choose, proper installation is essential for optimal sound control. If you are unsure about how to properly install these panels, it is best to consult with a professional. Improper installation can result in poor sound control and may even damage the panel.

Acoustic ceiling in open plan workplace with workstations and acoustic privacy screens

Final thoughts on improving the sound quality in your workplace

There are many benefits to using acoustic panels, including improved sound quality, reduced echoes and reverberation, controlled acoustic environment, privacy, and reduced noise pollution. They can be made from a variety of materials, including foam, fabric-covered and wood. Proper installation is essential for optimal sound control. If you are unsure about how to properly install, it is best to consult with a professional.

Thanks for reading our blog. We hope you’ve found it informative and helpful. You will find our blog on choosing the right office furniture also helpful. If you’re in the market for acoustic panels, we highly recommend consulting with a professional. Contact us today to learn more.

3 Reasons To Bring People Back To The Office.

We explain what companies need to do in bringing their teams back to the office. We also share how we are planning to get our office ready and entice people back to the office.

The core challenges businesses face to get their people back to the office are that many people enjoy working from home, and there’s a big focus on people’s attitudes towards COVID and staying safe. Many people have misconceptions that making your office COVID secure is going to be extremely costly. Some simple measures that have been relatively inexpensive to achieve combined with a focus on people’s behaviours have proved very effective.

01. People need people

The main reason that businesses will want to start transitioning people back to the office is that people need people. They inspire each other. They give each other confidence, and that is all about health and wellbeing. The culture of your company and the ability to work together is what makes your brand.

02. Compromised culture

In the initial period of the pandemic, everybody went to work from home. When you’ve got new people joining or when you just haven’t seen your team for many months, those relationships are going to start to break down. Your ability to be creative and collaborate is going to be affected. Your culture as a business is going to be compromised. Therefore, your financials could be affected by that.

03. Virtual burnout

The main challenge working from home can be distractions of family life, not having a great setup and the technology side of things. But the main challenge was loneliness during locked down. Loneliness is one of the major driving factors for people coming back to work.

The other thing is virtual burnout, making call after call after call on Teams or Zoom. When you become locked in a single environment, it becomes much harder to be creative going forward. Having space available for your employees to come to is going to be valuable.

Companies need to entice people back to the office.

During the pandemic, we have been working on our office and showroom ‘Revitalise & Reset’ project. We are going through the planning and design process. We have incorporated COVID requirements. The now is about an immediate reaction to what we can do in line with the current guidelines and the transition in getting people back to the office.

Topaz showroom layout plan
Topaz Furniture Showroom, design plan.

Topaz Furniture provides a total commercial furniture fitout in terms of supply and install, but we also have an in-house interior design team for companies looking to get the best return on investment. We offer custom furniture fitout design service for clients in Melbourne, Sydney and throughout Australia. We can create furniture floor plans, moodboards, colour palettes and finishes selections.

COVID-19 products

We have introduced a range of Office Hygiene Products in line with the current guidelines. This includes a collection of hand sanitiser stands and stations, clear Perspex sneeze screens and workstation privacy screens which can be added to existing workstations.

We have over 30 years of experience that we can share with others. The workplace is different for all of our clients. But we’re here to go on that journey with them, and we will use our experience to make sure it’s a seamless journey.

We’re ready to rethink your workspace and help bring people back to the office.

[Updated 18 May 2022]

Acoustics in the office are often overlooked as a potential source of distraction for your team. Office acoustic solutions can have a significant impact on productivity. Office noise can come from a variety of sources, including printers, copiers, phones, and conversations between employees.

The good news is that there are ways to improve office acoustics and reduce noise levels. These include installing sound-absorbing materials such as carpeting or acoustic panels. Also, creating designated quiet zones for employees who need to focus. Making changes to office acoustics can have a big impact on productivity.

Office noise sources

Office acoustic solutions can help to reduce the amount of noise that is generated in the office. There are a variety of office noise sources. They can include office equipment, conversations, and even outside noise. Let’s take a closer look at these sources.

Office equipment, such as printers and copiers, can be a major source of office noise. Especially if employees work next to these areas, due to poor office layout.

Conversations can also be a major source of office noise. Some employees are constantly on telephones or talking loudly. This can make it difficult to concentrate on work for other employees.

Outside noise can also be a problem in an office environment. If your office is located near a busy street, construction site, the constant noise can be distracting. These problems make it difficult to focus on work.

Office meeting room

Photo by charlesdeluvio on Unsplash

Ways to improve office acoustics

There are a few different ways to improve office acoustics. One way is to invest in office acoustic solutions. Like using sound-absorbing materials in common areas, meeting rooms or break rooms. Also, office employees can be encouraged to use personal listening devices when working in an open-plan workspace.

Implementing even one of these office acoustic solutions can create a more productive and enjoyable work environment for your team.

The benefits of improving office acoustics

Office acoustic solutions can improve communication and collaboration among team members. While also reducing noise distractions. In turn, this can lead to a more productive and efficient workplace. Additionally, these solutions can help create a more pleasant and comfortable office.

Good office acoustics can have numerous benefits for businesses and their teams. By creating a more conducive environment for communication and collaboration, businesses can boost efficiency. In turn, this can lead to improved bottom-line results. Employees may also appreciate the improved working conditions. This can lead to an increase in job satisfaction. Ultimately, they can have a positive impact on both businesses and employees.

Korber workplace quiet lounge

Top office acoustic solutions on the market

If you’re looking for office acoustic solutions to make your team more productive, you’ve come to the right place. There are several ways to improve the acoustics in your office. We’ve compiled the top five office acoustic solutions to help you get started.

1. Use Acoustic Walls and Panels

Acoustic panels are an effective way to reduce noise in your office. They can be mounted on walls or ceilings, and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Acoustic panels absorb sound, which helps to reduce echo.

2. Acoustic Workstation Screens

Modern workstations are offering the option of personalized acoustic screens. Upholstered in soundproofing materials to enhance acoustic comfort while being stylish additions.

3. Use Carpet and Rugs

Carpet and rugs can help to absorb sound, making your office more peaceful. Choose carpeting with a thick pile, and consider using area rugs in high-traffic areas.

4. Add Plants

Plants are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they can also help to improve office acoustics. Plants absorb sound waves, which helps to reduce noise levels overall.

5. Incorporate Pods and Booths

Acoustic working or meeting pods and phone booths can be incorporated to control noise in the office. They have excellent sound absorbing properties and can be an attractive feature.

As you can see, there are a variety of office acoustic solutions available, depending on the specific needs of your office space.

Creating a quiet zone in your office

If you’re looking for office acoustic solutions that will help create a quiet zone in your office, there are a few things to consider. First, you’ll want to make sure that you have adequate soundproofing. This can be accomplished by using thick carpets or rugs, curtains or drapes, and acoustic panels.

You’ll also want to think about the layout of your office and how you can minimize noise distractions. For example, placing workstations away from high-traffic areas can help reduce noise levels. And if possible, try to create designated quiet areas where team members can go to focus on their work without interruption.

Finally, encouraging employees to use headphones when they need to concentrate and establishing office-wide “quiet hours” can help everyone be more productive.

Conclusion

Today’s office can be a loud and distracting place. By taking some simple steps to improve the acoustics, you can create a more peaceful and productive environment for your team.

From printers and copy machines to conversations and general office chatter, there are ways to improve your office acoustics. With soundproofing and sound absorption, you can achieve increased concentration, decreased stress levels, and improved communication in the office.

As we have discussed, there are several office acoustic solutions available on the market today. Some of the top options include soundproofing panels and sound-absorbing materials. By taking these steps, you can create a more peaceful and productive office environment for your team. Remember, when your team feels good walking into the office every morning it becomes a place they want to be.

For more advice on improving your office acoustics, contact to one of our workplace specialists. By improving your workplace, your team will start to love Mondays.