Category: Office Furniture

Learn about new office furniture and how you can make your space work best for you. Metro Office has the answers.

Workplace Design Trends for the Active Employee or Office

Are you looking to make your workspace more active and productive? If so, Metro Office has just what you need! We’re bringing you the latest in workplace design trends, with ergonomic sit-stand desks, ball seats, and other tools that can help improve your productivity and health. So, let’s look at how Metro Office’s furniture solutions can help you create a more active workspace with their unique and innovative designs and products.

Sit-Stand Desks

Woman working at a sit-stand desk — Lotus LT Sit-Stand desk Source: Metro Office Store

One of the latest trends in ergonomic workplace design is the sit-stand desk. Sitting at a desk all day can have negative effects on employee health, including decreased circulation and increased risk for obesity and chronic diseases. On the other hand, standing for too long can also cause discomfort and fatigue. Sit-stand desks provide a solution to this problem by allowing employees to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day.

There are a variety of sit-stand desk options, including electric, crank, and pneumatic models. These desks can be adjusted to the perfect height for each individual employee, allowing them to switch between sitting and standing as often as they’d like. Our desks also come in a range of colors and finishes to fit seamlessly into any office space.

By incorporating sit-stand desks into your workplace design, you can promote employee health and productivity. Not only will employees feel more energized throughout the day, but they’ll also be able to focus better and stay more engaged in their work. Plus, providing employees with options to switch up their posture can prevent common workplace injuries and chronic pain.

Standing Mats

AdaptivErgo Anti-Fatigue Standing Mat — AdaptivErgo Anti-Fatigue Mat

Standing mats are an excellent addition to standing desks, offering a cushioned surface that reduces stress on the legs and feet. Not only do standing mats make standing for long periods more comfortable, but they also encourage people to stand longer. It’s essential to note that standing for too long can be as harmful as sitting for extended periods. Still, with a standing mat, people can find a balance between standing and sitting, helping to reduce the risk of chronic conditions.

Another benefit of standing mats is that they reduce fatigue. Many standing mats feature contours and raised edges, which encourage movement and circulation, keeping people alert and focused. At Metro Office, we have an excellent selection of standing mats in various sizes and shapes to fit your office space’s needs. From the anti-fatigue mats to the textured ones, we have everything you need to keep your team productive, comfortable, and healthy.

Standing mats are an excellent investment for any office, and the team at Metro Office is always ready to help you find the right one for your office space.

Treadmill Desks and Walking Pads

Office worker walking on treadmill desk while working on his laptop

While they may not be the most common sight in offices, treadmill desks have gained popularity in recent years as companies focus on promoting employee health and wellness. A treadmill desk is exactly what it sounds like – a desk that is attached to a treadmill, allowing the user to walk and work simultaneously.

The benefits of treadmill desks are many. Walking while working can help increase productivity, improve mood and creativity, and even promote weight loss and cardiovascular health. It can also help reduce the negative effects of prolonged sitting, such as poor posture and back pain.

Treadmill desks come in a variety of styles and designs to fit any office space. Some are designed to be compact and easily movable, while others are more stationary. They can also be customized to fit individual preferences and needs, with adjustable speeds and inclines, as well as features like built-in fans and charging stations.

While not all workplaces may be able to accommodate treadmill desks, it’s still a great example of how companies are using active workplace design to promote employee health and wellness. And at Metro Office, we’re always on the lookout for the latest trends in workplace design to help our clients create a happy and healthy workspace.

Ball Seats

Office worker sitting on balance ball while working at her desk.

Ball seats have become increasingly popular in the workplace due to their many benefits for employee health and productivity. These seats, which can also be referred to as stability balls or exercise balls, have been found to improve posture, balance, core strength, and even reduce back pain.

The idea behind a ball seat is that the instability of the ball forces your body to engage its core muscles to maintain balance. This constant engagement helps to improve your posture by strengthening the muscles that support your spine. Additionally, using a ball seat can also help to improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders associated with prolonged sitting.

While using a ball seat may seem like a fun and easy way to incorporate exercise into your workday, it’s important to note that it may not be the best fit for everyone. Those with back or spinal problems may find it uncomfortable or even harmful to sit on a ball seat for prolonged periods of time. Additionally, those who need more stability while sitting, such as older individuals or those with mobility issues, may find it difficult to use a ball seat.

Overall, incorporating ball seats into your office design can be a great way to encourage employees to stay active and engaged throughout the day. By providing options for alternative seating and promoting a healthy workplace culture, companies can help to improve employee morale, productivity, and well-being.

Ergonomic Keyboards

Ergonomic keyboard and mouse — Adesso ergonomic keyboard Source: Metro Office Store

Another trend in workplace design that can promote employee health and comfort is the use of ergonomic keyboards. Traditional keyboards can cause strain on the hands, wrists, and arms, leading to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. Ergonomic keyboards are designed with a curved shape that conforms to the natural position of the hands, allowing for more comfortable typing and reducing the risk of injury.

There are various types of ergonomic keyboards available, including split keyboards that separate the keys into two sections for a more natural hand position, and angled keyboards that have a raised section in the middle for a more comfortable wrist position. Some models even have built-in wrist rests for additional support.

While it may take some time to adjust to a new keyboard layout, the benefits of using an ergonomic keyboard can make a significant difference in reducing workplace injuries and improving overall comfort and productivity. So, consider implementing this trend in your office to help your employees stay healthy and comfortable while they work.

Other Ways to Promote Workplace Well Being

Colleagues in the office delightfully engage in conversation over a cup of coffee.

Aside from the latest trends in active workplace design and supplies, there are still many ways to promote the well-being of employees. Here are a few additional tips to consider:

1. Encourage Breaks

It’s important for employees to take regular breaks throughout the day to stretch, move around, and rest their eyes from the strain of screens. Consider implementing a break policy or schedule to ensure employees take the time they need to recharge.

2. Offer Healthy Snacks:

Providing healthy snacks and drinks in the breakroom can go a long way towards promoting better health and well-being. Encourage employees to stay hydrated and energized throughout the day by stocking the office kitchen with fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and other healthy snacks.

3. Promote Physical Activity:

While treadmills and standing desks are great for keeping employees active, there are many other ways to encourage physical activity in the workplace. Consider offering yoga or other fitness classes, organizing walking or running groups in nearby New York City parks, or even just promoting the use of stairs instead of elevators for employees who are physically able to use them.

4. Provide Mental Health Support:

Workplace stress and anxiety can take a toll on employees’ mental health. Make sure employees have access to mental health resources and support, whether that’s through an employee assistance program, counseling services, or other resources.

Metro Office Can Help!

By taking a holistic and active approach to employee well-being, you can help create a healthier and happier workplace for everyone. So why not reach out to Metro Office to see how you can give these tips a try and see the positive impact they have on your workforce?

How to Create Touchdown Spaces in Your Modern Workplace

Creating a modern workplace with touchdown spaces can help your employees stay productive and motivated. But how do you go about creating these spaces in your New York City workplace? Metro Office explores the different ways to design touchdown spaces that are comfortable and conducive to your team’s work. We’ll look at the best workplace design elements to incorporate, as well as the most effective layout. With the right design, you can create touchdown spaces that promote collaboration, innovation, and productivity in your modern workplace.

What is a Touchdown Space?

A touchdown space is an office environment designed for workers who may want to step away from their desks during the workday whether for a quick phone call, a brainstorming session, or a team meeting. These spaces are designed to provide a comfortable, convenient spot for employees to “touch down” when they need to have face-to-face meetings or just take a break from their regular office.

The concept of the touchdown space emerged from the trend of more people working from home, away from the traditional office setting. It offers a flexible, comfortable, and modern alternative for those who need to make occasional visits to their office or those who need smaller, more collaborative spaces in which to work.

In a touchdown space, you can expect comfortable seating, modern amenities like charging ports, and a focus on collaboration. The idea is to create a welcoming space that encourages collaboration and productivity while providing an escape from the typical corporate environment. It should also be designed with the user in mind — everything should be tailored to maximize their productivity and efficiency. By creating a touchdown space, you can provide your employees with a convenient place to get work done, while also creating a sense of community and collaboration within your organization.

The Benefits of Touchdown Spaces

Creating touchdown spaces in your modern workplace can bring a range of benefits. These areas can provide employees with an efficient workspace for collaboration and increased productivity. Not only do these areas make it easier for colleagues to work together, but they can also provide extra space for meetings, brainstorming sessions, quick phone calls, and other activities.

When properly implemented, touchdown spaces can have a positive effect on morale and engagement, as employees are given an opportunity to work more comfortably. This type of environment encourages more creative thinking, as individuals have the space to share ideas and explore new solutions. The design of these spaces also creates an inviting atmosphere, making it easy for employees to stay focused and productive.

Touchdown spaces can also help reduce stress levels and improve team communication. These areas give employees the opportunity to step away from their desks and take a break when needed. They can use the space to talk or engage in problem-solving activities, allowing them to come up with innovative solutions.

And lastly, these areas give teams the flexibility they need to get their work done in a comfortable and productive setting.

How to Create Touchdown Spaces in Your NYC Workplace

When adding these spaces to your NYC office, there are a few things that you should consider to ensure successful implementation.

First, you want to determine the use of the space. What is the space going to be used for?

Is this space for casual meetings? Then invest in some comfortable sofas, coffee or side tables, and charging ports.

Is this space for brainstorming? Then you’ll need not only adequate seating and workspace, but also whiteboards or monitors.

Does this space need to be quieter than the open-concept office in which it lives? Then you’ll need some sort of soundproofing in addition to whiteboards, workplaces, and seating.

Next, you will want to choose the location of your touchdown spaces. It is important to select a spot that offers plenty of natural light and has easy access to the rest of the office. Once the location is chosen, you will need to equip your touchdown space with the appropriate office furniture and technology. This may include workstations, desks, seating, whiteboards, monitors, charging ports, and more.

Next, you will need to define the rules and expectations for using the touchdown space. You may want to consider having employees sign up in advance or limit the time spent in each space. You should also provide clear instructions on cleaning up after each use and ensuring that all electronics are charged and stored properly.

Finally, it’s important to create a positive atmosphere within your touchdown space. Try to make it inviting by including artwork, plants, and other décor. You may also want to offer snacks and beverages for employees who need a break from their work. This will make them more likely to utilize the space for productive work.

How Metro Office Can Help

With Metro Office, you can find a variety of furniture and technology solutions to help make your NYC touchdown space successful. Our experts can guide you through the process of designing and equipping the perfect touchdown space for your business. Not only will you increase employee productivity, but customers, clients, and visitors will feel comfortable, impressed, and well-received in your beautiful touchdown spaces.

Modern Offices with Metro Office!

The Rise of Seated Privacy in NYC Offices

Seated Privacy: The New Normal in NYC Offices

The office of the future is here, and it looks a lot different than it did just a few years ago. Seated privacy is becoming the new normal in offices across New York City. Companies are beginning to recognize that open floor plans may not be the most productive way to work and are turning to alternative layouts that offer more individualized workspaces.

Let’s take a look at how seated privacy is transforming offices and how it could benefit you and your team.

What is Seated Privacy?

Seated privacy is the concept of creating personal, private spaces within a shared office environment. It involves making use of existing furniture and physical features such as walls, dividers, and bookshelves to create individualized, enclosed workspaces. Seated privacy can also include the use of screens, panels, and other portable furniture that provide both visual and acoustic barriers between workstations.

This type of privacy has been popularized in NYC offices, where space is often at a premium.

With the right furniture and layout, seated privacy can offer employees a sense of control over their own environment without sacrificing the ability to work collaboratively with others. In addition, it creates an atmosphere of productivity and respect for individual needs in the workplace.

How is Seated Privacy Being Used in NYC Offices?

To meet the needs of their employees, some companies are providing seated privacy solutions to their office space. Examples of this include:

Acoustic Pods
Private Offices
Cubicles with High Partitions

This allows employees to have their own designated workspace, while still being part of the team. Additionally, many companies are adding standing desks and adjustable chairs to allow employees to adjust their seating position throughout the day.

Having designated private workspaces also allows companies to better accommodate remote workers. Companies can easily set up video conferencing capabilities in a private workspace so that remote employees can join meetings with their colleagues. The private workspaces also create a comfortable environment where hybrid employees can focus on their work.

What Are the Benefits of Seated Privacy?

Seated privacy is helping New York City offices create an environment that allows employees to be productive and feel comfortable at the same time. By providing private workspaces and allowing employees to adjust their seating position throughout the day, companies are creating a space that encourages collaboration and creativity without sacrificing privacy.

Distraction-Free Workspaces

Additionally, seated privacy helps reduce distractions for both the individual employee and for everyone else in the office. In addition to increasing productivity by reducing distractions, seated privacy can also improve morale by providing individuals with more autonomy over their work life. Employees can now tailor their workspace according to their personal preferences while still feeling like they’re part of a team.

Collaboration and Communication

Furthermore, seated privacy provides employees with more control over who they interact with during the day, which can make them feel more secure and allow them to better focus on their tasks. Finally, by eliminating barriers between desks, such as cubicle walls, this type of layout allows for more open communication between colleagues as well as improved access for managers who may need to step in for support or guidance when needed. All of these benefits can help create a more efficient and effective office setting for both employers and employees alike.

How Can You Incorporate Seated Privacy into Your Office Space?

If you’re looking to introduce seated privacy into your office space, there are a few key factors to consider. First, think about how many individual workspaces you need for your team. If you have a smaller team, you might be able to get away with fewer private seating arrangements, but if you have larger teams, you’ll want to provide as much privacy as possible.

The Right Dividers

When it comes to the actual seating arrangements, look for dividers that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. For example, transparent materials like glass or acrylic will offer the most privacy while still allowing light to pass through. Or you could use solid wood panels or even fabric walls for a more traditional approach. The key is to find something that fits your overall office decor and offers enough privacy for each individual workspace.

Ergonomic Furniture

Finally, make sure your furniture is comfortable and supportive. Many offices opt for ergonomic chairs with adjustable backrests and armrests to promote comfort and productivity. In addition, you should also make sure that each desk provides enough space for employees to spread out their work and have plenty of room to move around without feeling cramped.

Metro Office Works for You

By taking all these factors into consideration, you can easily incorporate seated privacy into your office space. Not only will it provide your team with the privacy they need to focus on their work, but it will also create a welcoming and productive atmosphere that everyone can enjoy. The Metro Office design team has the workplace and furniture solutions to create comfortable, collaborative, and personal workspaces in your New York City office.

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The Key to a Comfortable, Ergonomic and Productive Workplace

Ergonomics are important to consider when it comes to office furniture. Ergonomically-designed office furniture can provide comfort and support while increasing productivity and morale in the workplace. Ergonomic office furniture not only helps to reduce strain and fatigue but also provides a healthy and safe work environment. Investing in ergonomic office furniture is essential for any business that values the health and well-being of its employees. Explore the benefits of ergonomic office furniture and how it can create a more comfortable and productive workplace.

The Importance of an Ergonomic Workspace

When it comes to creating a productive and healthy workspace, ergonomic office furniture is essential. It helps ensure that people can use computers and other equipment with ease, while keeping their bodies in the best positions to avoid injury. An ergonomic workspace also encourages proper posture, which can help prevent musculoskeletal disorders caused by improper posture and repetitive motions. Furthermore, ergonomic office furniture can help create a more pleasant working environment by reducing stress and increasing morale.

By investing in ergonomic office furniture, employers can create an environment that maximizes worker comfort and productivity. The right furniture can help reduce fatigue, improve posture, and encourage efficiency in the workplace. Ergonomic furniture can also promote better health, helping to improve circulation and reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Proper posture helps keep the spine in its natural alignment, which helps reduce neck and back pain. Moreover, ergonomic furniture can help prevent the onset of carpal tunnel syndrome by reducing pressure on the wrists and forearms. By providing employees with ergonomic furniture, employers can create an environment that is both productive and comfortable for all.

How to Create an Ergonomic Workspace

Creating an ergonomic workspace doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. There are a variety of adjustments you can make to your existing workspace that will help ensure you have a comfortable and productive work environment.

A comfortable and supportive chair is essential for creating an ergonomic workspace. Look for chairs that offer adjustable lumbar support, armrests, and seat height. This will help you maintain correct posture while working and reduce strain on your neck, shoulders, and back.

Adjustable sit-stand desks allow you to easily switch between sitting and standing throughout the day. This helps promote circulation, prevent fatigue, and reduce muscle tension. These desks have been shown to be a major workplace design trend in recent years.

Standing for extended periods of time can cause strain on your legs and feet. Anti-fatigue mats can help reduce this strain by providing cushioning and shock absorption. Make sure to choose a mat with enough room for your feet to move freely and provide arch support.

Using a laptop on a flat surface can cause neck and back strain due to poor posture. An adjustable laptop stand allows you to set the screen at the correct height, helping you maintain a neutral neck position while working.

There are a variety of ergonomic accessories available to help improve your workspace. These include wrist rests, keyboard trays, mouse pads, and monitor stands. These accessories can help reduce fatigue and promote better posture while working. By making these simple adjustments to your workspace, you can help ensure that you have an ergonomic workspace setup that is comfortable and promotes productivity.

The Benefits of an Ergonomic Workspace

Ergonomic office furniture and equipment can provide several health and productivity benefits for people who work in an office setting. Here are some of the main benefits that ergonomic office furniture offers:

Improved Comfort and Productivity: Ergonomic office furniture allows you to adjust your workspace to fit your individual needs. With ergonomically designed chairs, desks, monitors, and keyboards, you can find the perfect height, angle, and position for your body to work comfortably. This helps reduce muscle strain and fatigue, allowing you to stay focused and productive for longer periods of time.

Better Posture: Poor posture can lead to a variety of health issues such as back, neck, and shoulder pain. With ergonomic office furniture, you can maintain a healthy posture while working, which reduces the risk of developing any of these conditions.

Reduced Stress: Sitting in an uncomfortable chair or at an awkward angle can put stress on your body, leading to increased tension and fatigue. Ergonomic office furniture allows you to sit in a relaxed, natural position that helps reduce stress.

Increased Safety: An ergonomically designed workspace can help reduce the risk of injury due to slips, trips, and falls. It also reduces the risk of repetitive strain injuries caused by poor posture and awkward movements.

Improved Health: When you sit in an uncomfortable chair or at an awkward angle for extended periods of time, it can cause problems like headaches, eye strain, and even poor circulation. Ergonomic office furniture helps you to maintain good posture, reducing the risk of these types of health issues.

Overall, investing in ergonomic office furniture can help improve your overall comfort, productivity, and health. When set up correctly, it can provide long-term benefits that can make a real difference in your daily life.

Woman having shoulder pain while working at her desk

How to Choose Ergonomic Office Furniture

Creating an ergonomic workspace is a crucial step in improving workplace productivity and comfort. At Metro Office, we understand the importance of finding the right ergonomic office furniture to fit your needs, budget, and style. We offer a wide range of options in various styles and price points. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find pieces that fit your budget and provide the support and functionality you need to stay comfortable throughout the day. Whether you’re looking for classic leather chairs or modern adjustable desks, we have it all.

When it comes to creating a workspace that’s both comfortable and productive, Metro Office has you covered. From helping you select the right ergonomic furniture to expert installation services, we’re here to make sure that your office is outfitted with the right furniture for your individual needs.

Contact us today to get started on creating an ergonomic workspace for yourself or your team.

2023 Office & Workspace Design Trends to Implement in Your Business

It’s time to look at what the next year of workplace design will bring us in 2023. It’s important to plan ahead and find creative ways to improve your space, or else you could find yourself behind the competition. The business landscape changes every year, so if you want to stay ahead of the curve, be sure to check out these trends in office and workspace design from 2023!

Sustainability

The sustainable design trend is still on the rise. Eco-friendly office furniture, upcycled materials, recycling, and energy efficient office spaces are all a part of this trend. Here are some ideas for incorporating sustainability into your office space:

Invest in eco-friendly office furniture. This will not only save you money, but it also helps reduce your carbon footprint.
Use upcycled materials for your walls or floors. Giving new life to old material will help you save money and still look stylish!
Recycle old items that would otherwise be thrown away or sold for scrap metal. It’s an easy way to keep things out of landfills and can be fun too!

Privacy Spaces

Privacy and personal workspaces are a key trend for the future, as many people got used to working remotely. Offices need to be designed with spaces that allow employees to escape the hustle and bustle of the workplace and get some privacy, whether they’re working on their own or collaborating with others. If you can provide a quiet space where employees can go when they want a break from all the noise, you will see much higher morale among your workers.

Smart Office Spaces

We live in an age where we have the option to work in a space where technology is integrated seamlessly. From desk lamps to office chairs, everything will be connected to the internet, allowing employees to get up from their desks when they need a change of scenery or to take a quick break. Rooms will also be equipped with smart projectors and multiple monitors for presentations, which will eliminate the need for cumbersome projectors that need to be stored, rolled in, and set up every day. Integrated wireless charging products will make it easier than ever before to use smart phones and tablets without getting tangled up in wires. These advances make it possible for your business’s office design trends to include more innovation and creativity for how you integrate technology into your workplace.

Collaboration Spaces

Collaborative spaces, such as conference rooms, team building areas and touchdown spaces, are a necessity for businesses and have become an integral part of the workday. However, they are not designed solely for meetings. Collaborative spaces can also function as private workspaces with the use of screens and dividers. This creates a sense of privacy while still allowing for collaboration. Furthermore, collaborative spaces provide workers with opportunities for team building through games and activities. This trend has been so successful that it is now being integrated into office design projects across the world.

Well-being in the Workplace

Mental health is paramount in the modern landscape, so it’s time to design with your employees’ needs in mind. Here are some of the trends that we predict will be popular in 2023:

Create burnout-free zones for employees who are feeling burnt out and need a break. These could be areas where there is a cool breeze and natural light, or places with plants or soothing music playing that can help someone recharge their energy levels.
Use dedicated quiet spaces for those times when you need peace and quiet to focus on a specific task without distractions.
Design meditation rooms into the office space; this can be an area where people can go to de-stress or meditate during breaks.

Biophilic Design

Biophilic design is a growing trend that imbues natural elements and materials into the workplace. This type of office environment is known to improve productivity and morale, as well as make people feel more comfortable and grounded. This type of design also helps lower stress levels and promote healthier habits – reminding people to breathe in fresh air and sit in natural sunlight. To incorporate biophilic design into your workspace, consider using plant walls, natural lighting, earthy colors and fabrics, natural materials, and other features like waterfalls or fountains.

Modular Construction

Instead of a focus on physical space restrictions, we are designing for flexibility, both in how the office can be used by employees as well as who the space can be shared with outside your company. By providing comfortable and flexible furniture that can move around easily, you provide an area where people feel engaged and at home. Flexible furniture is practical, not just visually appealing, as it minimizes potentially wasted space.

The Modern Office

The desire for more modernity doesn’t only affect desk spaces; it also influences how lighting fixtures, breakrooms, reception areas, and even meeting rooms are set up. The thinking behind these trends is that adding them increases freedom within your workplace. These trends show us that in 2023 there will be more modularity not just physically but functionally too – areas will transform from desks into conference spaces or reading rooms with ease!

Metro Office is your one stop shop and total office solution for office supplies, safe workplace necessities, and workplace furniture supply, design, and installation. Learn why Metro Office is your total office solution.