Office Beach Gataway

Office Beach Getaway

It's official, summertime is almost over.  Many people might be enjoying a last minute beach vacation.  Others might be daydreaming about their vacations past. If you find yourself daydreaming about the beach, there may be some options for you.  Below are some ideas people have implemented to make it feel more like a vacation in their very own office, just by adding some creative features to their modern executive desk.

Your Own Private Beach

*Photo courtesy of Lifehacker.com

How would you feel having a giant patch of sand beneath your designer office desk, being able to dip your toes in the sand?  According to the website, Lifehacker, Justin Kemp was inspired to create this personalized office environment from the band, The Beach Boys.  Justin explains the concept of his desk set-up:

 "The sand is relaxing, but for me, it's more a symbol of my permanent vacation.  It's the design of a lifestyle where 'work' becomes so satisfying that vacation and retirement become undesirable."

Play in the Sand

*Photo courtesy of Officeplayground.com

If you don't want the hassle of changing your entire desk set-up, or want to avoid the inevitable mess of sand all over your floor, how about a mini version of the beach right on top of your modern executive desk?  According to the website, Beach Break comes with everything you need for a pretend miniature day at the beach. Relax and imagine you are sitting on the white beach chair under the blue umbrella as you rake the ultra fine sand, collect seashells, and fill the miniature sand pail. 

Make a Splash

*Photo courtesy of Amazon.com

Typically you should avoid mixing water and electronics, so how about a beach inspired tabletop mat for your desk instead?  This vacation inspired mat might just be the perfect addition to your designer office desk.

 A Picture Perfect Window

*Picture courtesy of Amazon.com

Here in San Diego, we are known for our surfing culture.  And nothing says summer like a surf beach scene. This wall decal can be easily cleaned, as well as removed and repositioned.  Available from Amazon.com.

Determining your Conference Table Seating Capacity

Yi Conference Table, Edeskco.com

When selecting a conference room table, one of the first things you need to determine is the size and seating capacity that is required.  In order to do this, there are many factors that need to be determined.

Most conference room chairs will be 24"-30" in width.  Typically a width of 30" per person is recommended as a minimum.  This is most commonly used when the size of the room limits the size of the conference room table that can be used.  If you have extra room to spare, 36" is very comfortable, and is an appropriate size for boardroom use.

For situations that require more space (if each employee is using their own laptop computer, for example) a larger space of 42" may be preferable.

Shape and Seating Capacity

The shape of your conference table also determines the amount of seating space per person that can be used. 

Rectangular, Square, or Boat Shaped:  These tend to be the most commonly used conference table shapes, as they also provide the most space.  To determine the seating capacity of these table shapes, use the following simple formula:

*Courtesy of Paul Downs Custom Conference Tables

Racetrack Shape:  This shape consists of a rectangular center with half circle ends.  Because of this, you will not be able to fit quite as many people.  For this shape, the following formula can be used:

*Courtesy of Paul Downs Custom Conference Tables

Round Shape:  This shape is also popular, but can be somewhat inefficient when one is concerned about space.  It is also important to make sure to not crowd the user's leg space.  When determining the seating capacity, this shape tends to have the easiest formula:

            *Courtesy of Paul Downs Custom Conference Tables

Keystone Shape:  This shape is used primarily for video conferencing, and therefore the wide end part of the table is not typically used for seating.  Because of this, it has one less person for the seating capacity.  The formula can be used below:

            *Courtesy of Paul Downs Custom Conference Tables

U-Shaped, V-Shaped, and Other Unique Shapes:  Because these shapes can be very unique and often depend on how the manufacturer constructs them, it is best to use the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the seating capacity.

*If you still questions regarding the potential seating capacity for a conference table, our friendly staff at Executive Desk Company will be happy to help.  You are able to contact us anytime between the hours of 8am - 5pm PST, Monday - Friday.

The Basics of Workplace Email Etiquette

Courtesy of http://jesperdeleuran.dk/

In today's workplace, we have to deal with a high volume of email on a daily basis.  In fact, the average worker receives almost 130 emails a day.  In order to be able to handle these incoming messages to your increasingly full inbox; here are some basic guidelines to help you sort through and respond to those many emails:

Proofread every message

Nothing can be more embarrassing as having a very obvious spelling mistake in your email.  Always make sure to proofread and double check your emails before sending.  According to an article in Business Insider, one worker noticed one of their bosses spelling errors:   "One supervisor intended to write 'Sorry for the inconvenience.' But he relied on his spell-check and ended up writing 'Sorry for the incontinence.'" 

Be direct; include a clear subject line

Many people need to scan through their emails quickly, and having a clear and direct title in your subject line will help one understand the purpose of your email.  Subject lines like, "Meeting Time Changed" or "Question regarding your meeting", are very effective.  People often decide to open emails based on the subject line.

Add the email address LAST

This is a good tip that I had not considered previously.  In order to prevent mistakes and to prevent sending the email before it's ready, include the email of the recipient ONLY when you are ready to finalize and send the email. 

Avoid colored or eccentric fonts

Using an eccentric or a colored font may be fun, however it may look unprofessional to those you are emailing.  It is best to stick to a traditional font such as Arial or Calibri in black so it is easy to read and decipher. 

Do not use slang or abbreviations

Using a short cut, such as a "u" instead of spelling out "you" or "2" instead of "too" can be a nice and easy way to abbreviate your words, but it's best to keep this between your family and friends than your co-workers.  Using short cuts such as this can seem unprofessional and even rude to those receiving your email. 

Limit your exclamation points

Try to limit yourself to ONE exclamation point to express excitement!  If you use too many exclamation points, you may appear immature or a bit too passionate!  As you can see by my example above, it may come across as odd or overzealous.

Double check your recipient

Always make sure to check the recipient of your email.  Often times your email program may auto fill an address, and it may not always be the correct one.  If an email does not go to the correct person, it can be an embarrassing situation for yourself, and to the person who receives the email.  Especially if the email is a private matter.

Make sure to follow these basic tips to ensure your emails are always composed in a professional manner, and embarrassing situations are avoided.

The Evolution of the Desk

               

Cartoon courtesy of Caveman Love

We have come a long way from the origin of the primitive desk.  It has been said that the earliest signs of an example that is close to a desk system, dates back to around 3100BC in Orkney, Scotland.  This site shows the first signs of an organizational system of shelves and preparation areas.

Photo courtesy of BT Group

We can find other early examples of desks from the medieval period.  Many of these desks were used specifically by scribes (also known as modern day accountants), writers, and letter keepers.

This figure of St Jerome, from a 12th century Bible, gives a meticulous picture of the tools of the scribe. Courtesy of Medievil Writing

These desks eventually evolved into what is known as the bureau during the 1700s.  These desks began to incorporate drawers into the design.  Eventually this progressed to what is known as the secretary desk, which had items incorporated into it such as a hutch.  As time moved on, desks started to incorporate more items that made them more ornate with storage for inkpots and blotting sand.

Pennsylvania Slant Lid Desk, ca. 1770, courtesy of PBS

During the 18th and into the 19th century, the pedestal desk was introduced.  This became popular with everyday workers and Presidents alike.  One of the most famous desks that was produced during the 1880s is "The Resolute".  This desk was introduced into the White House as a gift from Queen Victoria to President Rutherford B. Hayes.  Can you imagine working at this executive desk every day?

"Resolute Desk", picture courtesy of daniellesuniquestory

New production techniques introduced in the 20th centuries allowed for professional office furniture to be mass produced for the first time.  This mass production was triggered by the growth of more and more white collar workers. 

The growth of technology continued to create innovations for desks.  The introduction of the typewriter, telephone, and the computer all required designers to incorporate new ideas into their desk designs.

Typewriter Desk from Northwestern Furniture Co, courtesy of Collectors Weekly

Today we have many different designs and options for our executive desks.  From contemporary to traditional, to power accessories and standing desks, we have many different options to choose from for our modern day desks.  What is next for the desks of the future?  It is anyone's guess.  New technologies are sure to be created, and the redesigns of desks are likely to follow.

Kaysa Desk, Executive Desk Company

Use the Force for Your Furniture & Desk Accessory Needs

In honor of the new Star Wars movie being released this month, we thought it would be fun to take a look at some very creative designs desk designs and desk accessories.  Can you picture using any of these designs for your professional office furniture needs?

Han Carbonite Desk, courtesy of Tom Spina Designs

This desk is made with metal and fiberglass with a heavy glass top which helps to create one very unique executive desk!

Star Wars Desk, courtesy of Dave's Geeky Designs

From the designer, Dave:  " I came across this old idea where I mentioned the landing pad from Return of the Jedi would make for a cool desk. I thought I’d put together a basic concept.

Not only would you have a nice big surface area for your computer, but you’d have several fancy lights, a couple of neat desk grommets, and a system for organizing cables in the “walkways” below.

And yes, you could adorn this with figures and vehicles, making this a play set too."

TIE Fighter Desk, Courtesy of Biology of Technology

"You can feel the Force with this geek desk/PC.  It is a scale model of a Star Wars TIE Fighter, and it has a computer (PC) built right into the cockpit."

This R2D2 desk vacuum will help clean up any desk sized mess.  Powered by a USB cable, R2-D2’s third arm acts as a powerful vacuum for pencil shavings and more."R2D2 Desk Vac", courtesy of Firebox

This business card holder is made from metal and is spring loaded, it’s the perfect thing to grab all of your client's attention from around the galaxy. "Han Solo in Carbonite Business Card Case", courtesy of Think Geek

I am your father.  Use the force. These No. 2 pencils include the many Star Wars fan's favorite and iconic quotes.  Star Wars Pencils, courtesy of Etsy

Whether you prefer a traditional executive desk, or if you see a Star Wars themed office in your future, these items are sure to inspire!

Designing a Unique and Enjoyable Reception Area

Goodland Reception Desk, Edeskco

Designing a reception area with a modern style, can seem like an intimidating task.  Especially since this area is the first thing your customers and clients see.  Because of this, it is important to make a good first impression.  Keep the following tips in mind when you are in the process of planning your reception area.

Focal Modern Reception Desk

The centerpiece of your reception area should be a beautiful and unique receptionist desk, as it is likely the first thing your clients will notice.  Make sure the design you choose is suitable for your business.  It is also important to choose a large enough desk for your employees to comfortably work at, but is still the appropriate size for your office space.

Shreveport Reception Desk, Edeskco

Clean and Contemporary Guest Seating

Another important element to your reception area is guest seating.  It is important to find furniture that is comfortable for your guests, yet still makes a statement within your reception area.

Gavin Office Sofa, Edeskco

Matching Coffee and End Tables

To help coordinate and pull together the overall feel of your room, it is beneficial to select a coffee and end table to match your guest seating.

Gavin Coffee Table, Edeskco

Practical and Interesting Accessory Pieces

Accents and accessory pieces are a good option to customize your office space, and to make it feel more warm and welcoming.  Items such as coat racks, accent pillows, or lighting is a good way to make your reception area its own unique space.

 Greek Key Emerald & White, modshop1.com

Hi Tripod Contemporary Coat Stand Rack, Remodelista                

Reception Desk Basics

Reception desks come in a variety of shapes and sizes.  Choosing the best configuration for you depends on your office space, and the needs of your business.

 Bridgeport Reception Desk, Edeskco

Reception Desk Shapes

There are many modern reception desk design shapes such as rectangular, circular, or semi-circular.  Depending on your needs, reception desks can be made larger to accommodate multiple receptionists and guests at the same time.

            

Neo-Berlin Large Reception Desk, Edeskco

            

Ares Reception Desk, Edeskco

If you have certain size restrictions, or if you have a unique space to work with, it may be best to  go with a customizable reception desk.  That way you are able to make it to your exact specifications, and do not have to settle for a standard reception desk that won't work perfectly within your space.

Reception Desk Accessories

There are also many accessories that you are able to add to your desk.  Add-ons such as a pedestal or storage cabinet, is a good solution for additional storage needs. 

*Edeskco add-on options.  From left to right:  3 Drawer Pedestal, 2 Door Storage Cabinet, and 2 Door Lateral File Cabinet

You are also able to add options such as a return or a bridge to your reception desk.  If your receptionist requires more work space, this would be a good option to consider.  Returns are also able to used for ADA requirements.  Please keep in mind that ADA Requirements are based upon local governance.  It is best to check local legislation to find out what the regulations are in your area before ordering your desk.

                   

            *Pictured left to right:  an example of a right return and a right bridge

Reception Desk Materials

Our modern reception desks have a variety of materials to choose from, and can be extremely customizable.  Our reception desks are made with real wood veneer, painted MDF in satin or high gloss lacquer finish, melamine, tempered glass, and chrome steel/ stainless steel/ aluminum which enables us to serve your needs.

        

            *Examples of our finishes. From left to right: Walnut & Maple veneer finishes, High Gloss Black & White finishes, and Dark Grey and Black Wood Paint finishes

Reception desk counters are typically made with wood or glass.  Glass tends to be more durable,  although a wood veneer finish can have a very refined look.

There are many things to consider when looking at a reception desk.  To simplify the process, it is best to determine essential items such as the size and shape first.  You can then decide on additional factors such as add-ons, materials, and style.