Features and characteristics of computer desks
A computer desk differs from similar pieces of furniture in its functionality and ergonomics. Its design includes the following elements:
- compartment for the system unit;
- pull-out keyboard shelf;
- closed boxes;
- a system of small shelves in the form of a superstructure.
Each element has its place. This approach allows you to properly organize the space so that nothing distracts from the work process.
Metal tables
Durable chrome-plated iron structures are durable, resistant to moisture and corrosion (with appropriate surface treatment).
Tables are decorated by installing plastic or glass inserts.
Types of computer desk designs
The question of how to choose a suitable computer desk for your home is not as simple as it might seem at first glance. There are several types that differ in design. It is advisable to make a list of preferences in advance, and then consider what options are available.
- Stationary models are the most popular. They have good stability, reliability, and versatility. They delight with the variety of shapes and additional equipment.
- The transformable table takes up little space and is ideal for a child's room. After work, its individual parts can be compactly folded, freeing up space for other activities. Often the product has a height adjustment function to “grow” with the child
- The hanging option is the standard of minimalism. The tabletop is mounted to the wall. Shelves, drawers, etc. are attached separately. The result is a full-fledged piece of furniture that allows you to visually increase the space.
- A stand desk can also save usable space. The product consists of three tiers, is equipped with shelves, but is not suitable for long-term work due to the small size of the tabletop.
- Modular designs are considered the most practical. They make it possible to create a composition from individual objects depending on the characteristics of the room and the user’s preferences.
Varieties
There are several common types of computer designs to work with. They all differ in form and functionality.
Angular
A beautiful corner option is an excellent solution, as it does not take up much space. The design has an angular appearance and fits exactly into the corner of the room.
Corner computer desk
Semicircular
The semicircular shape makes it possible to ergonomically place all the equipment and other necessary things. The user is positioned perpendicular to the length of the structure. Fits perfectly in the room, located along the wall.
Semicircular computer desk
Classical
This is a simple straight computer desk. The user is positioned perpendicular to the length and positioned directly in front of the monitor. Convenient to place along a wall or near a window.
Modular
The modular working corner can be assembled at the discretion of the owner. It’s convenient to add shelves and drawers to it. The interesting design is completely modified by adding or removing shelves, drawers and racks.
Computer desk with cabinet
The wall is an unusual idea for decorating a work corner.
With shelves
The presence of shelves on a computer desk increases its usable area.
Arrangement: on the shelves you can place both the monitor itself and the equipment accompanying the PC.
With drawers
This computer desk has built-in drawers under the tabletop. Models with drawers can also be equipped with shelves and racks.
Computer desk with shelves and drawers
With racks
An additional shelving unit increases the functionality of this piece of furniture. Quite often, a similar option is purchased for a room for schoolchildren, since it is convenient to place literature and documents on the shelves.
Computer desk with rack
When purchasing or creating a project yourself, you should rely on standard sizes. Particular attention is paid to the height of future furniture. The convenience of the owner will depend on it.
Shapes and sizes
The dimensions of a computer desk must meet a number of requirements.
- The optimal tabletop width is 80 cm or more, then it will be possible to maintain the correct distance from the monitor screen to the eyes of a sitting person.
- The distance between the top cover and the floor ranges from 70 to 80 cm. For children, it is worth choosing the option with height adjustment.
- The table length of 120 cm will allow you to place all the necessary equipment and a lighting source. If you plan to use the product for working with papers, then you should pay attention to models with a large parameter (150 cm).
Depending on the design, there are linear and angular types of computer desks. The latter are made in the form of the letter L or have sides of the same length. The first type of design can be left- or right-handed. Their advantage is that they save space, since an empty corner is used for installation.
The corner model with a curved front edge is particularly comfortable. The central recess makes it as ergonomic as possible.
The choice of shape and size of the product largely depends on the future installation location.
Manufacturing materials and coatings Different types of materials are used to make computer desks. They are characterized by high quality, reliability, and the ability to withstand intense loads.
- Wood is a durable, environmentally friendly, natural material. Products made from it have an attractive color, natural texture, and delight with strength characteristics. The surface is covered with a protective layer of varnish. The only drawback is the significant cost.
- Metal structures are suitable for rooms decorated in a modern style. Chrome and polymer-based powder compositions are used as decorative coatings. The metal frame is combined with wood, impact-resistant glass, and plastic. The weak point of such a product is considered to be the connection points between the metal and other materials.
- Glass models visually make the space freer and brighter. In addition to the usual transparent material, colored inserts and LED lighting are used. However, glass products are small in size and quite expensive.
- Chipboard and MDF are considered a budget option. The surface of the structural elements is laminated, covered with veneer or colored plastic. Such products are sensitive to mechanical stress and lose their visual appeal due to peeling of the decorative coating as a result of careless handling.
Furniture edges are used to mask the edges of particle boards. There are several varieties of this finishing material.
- The melamine type is made from paper. It pleases with a wide selection of shades and an affordable price, but has a low level of resistance to mechanical stress and becomes unusable from contact with liquid.
- PVC edging will cost a little more. It reliably protects the end areas from damage and moisture, and is available in a large palette of colors. Its disadvantage is increased rigidity, which makes it difficult to process curved parts.
- ABS finishes are considered the most durable. It is easy to work with due to its softness and elasticity. High quality corresponds to the declared price.
Transforming model
This model is an excellent solution for saving space in a studio apartment or Khrushchev apartment. The table can be adjusted in height (as the child grows) or in width (folding side panels).
When assembled, it takes up minimal space, often performing some decorative function.
Tabletops
Tabletops of furniture intended for working at a computer are made from the following materials.
- Solid wood. The surface has high aesthetic characteristics, is pleasant to the touch, and durable.
- Chipboard with a protective coating does not overload the structure and can withstand significant loads.
- Glass will add volume, is not afraid of scratches and moisture, but requires constant care.
- High-quality plastic is quite suitable for making the top cover. The material helps reduce the overall weight of the product, is affordable, and pleases with a variety of designs and colors. However, the surface quickly deteriorates from contact with sharp objects, is sensitive to stress, and is designed for a short service life.
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Natural wood table
Models made from natural wood are distinguished by their original design, natural pattern, and rich decor. Robust structure and reliable fastening ensure long service life of the table.
The structure of wood allows manufacturers to create the most unusual models, distinguished by fittings, retractable systems and a variety of colors.
Additional equipment for computer desks
A computer desk is a multifunctional piece of furniture. Its design includes various elements.
- Cabinet with drawers.
- Pull-out shelf for mouse and keyboard.
- Rotating monitor stand.
- Footrest.
- Ventilated compartment for the system unit.
- A superstructure in the form of cabinets, shelves for placing office equipment and useful little things.
- Holes in the back wall for wire exit.
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Why do homemade tables remain relevant?
Now in furniture stores you can find computer tables for every taste and any color, large and small, the simplest and those with a lot of complex elements. It would seem that you come and choose, but in reality everything turns out to be not as easy and simple as it seems at first glance. So, in some cases, the selected table option may not fit the size of the apartment , or it may turn out to be completely different from the style or color that you would like to see. So, whatever one may say, sometimes self-made tables are the best option.
Computer desk
Undoubtedly, in order to make a good, high-quality, as well as beautiful table, you need to have at least the basic tools, but in general, even a beginner, if desired, will be able to make the simplest version of the table. Otherwise, the advantages of homemade furniture are as follows:
- the ability to produce an exclusive and unique product;
- you can adjust the dimensions of the table to fit the free space with millimeter accuracy;
- it will be easy to take into account all the wishes of the master regarding the number of shelves, drawers and table configuration;
- you can save quite a lot of money;
- the table can be made from exactly the material and color you need;
- You can take into account the layout of the apartment and ensure that the table matches the interior style exactly.
Today, the choice of furniture is huge, but you can also make a computer desk with your own hands.
The main disadvantage of all home-made things is the need for time, and also the fact that you have to do everything yourself. Of course, a table can be made to order, but it is important to understand that such a product will most likely cost a tidy sum - it is rare that a craftsman will make furniture for less money than a ready-made table in a store costs.
Benefits of homemade furniture
How to sit at a computer desk correctly
His performance and well-being depend on how correctly a person sits at the computer.
- The spine should be straight, with slight emphasis on the back of the chair.
- The feet are completely pressed to the floor, and an angle of 90-100° is formed between the thigh and lower leg.
- The light source is installed in such a way as to avoid glare on the monitor screen.
- It is recommended to place the keyboard opposite you. While typing, your shoulders are relaxed and your wrists are supported. The mouse is located in close proximity to the keyboard.
- The height of the monitor is adjusted so that its upper edge is 5-7 cm above eye level, and the distance from the eyes to the center of the screen is at least 50 cm. This will allow you to get a viewing angle of 30°.
- The front cut of the table top with a beveled edge will make it possible to position your elbows more comfortably.
- If the model is equipped with wheels, it is important to secure their position with a stopper to avoid unplanned movement.
- The height of the table depends on the height of the user; for children it is better to choose a model with adjustment according to this parameter.
- A tabletop that is too narrow will make it difficult to organize your workspace; the recommended depth is in the range from 50 to 80 cm.
- The length of the table depends on the purpose. If you plan to use it not only for working at the computer, then you should choose a larger model.
No matter how comfortable your body position is, it is recommended to do a short warm-up every hour for 3-5 minutes. Walk around your home or office to rest your eyes, restore blood circulation, and restore mobility to your muscles and joints.
Dependence of table comfort on height
Convenience, which means the time that the user can spend at the computer without fatigue, depends directly on the height:
- Computer desk
- Monitor heights
- Keyboard heights
- Tilt of a person's back
- Leg angle
- Leg supports
There is a standard height for a computer desk, which is 750 mm.
If a person's gaze is too low, the neck muscles will become overstrained. This will lead to overload of the cervical vertebrae and fatigue of the shoulder muscles. If the keyboard is placed too high, it will lead to wrist fatigue. Your fingers will become numb over time. This will lead to pain in the wrists and joints of the hands.
Modern office chairs allow you to adjust the height of the user's position relative to the table.
If the keyboard is positioned too low, the person’s torso will also tilt and the head will rise. This will lead to overwork of the cervical vertebrae and even to a neck hernia. In this case, the lower back and back will be overstrained, which will lead to fatigue and pain.
As a result of incorrect leg position, the hip joints and lymph nodes will be overstrained. This can lead to improper blood circulation in the lower extremities. As a result - swelling of the legs. The hardest part will be on the feet and ankle joints. This will be felt especially strongly in hot weather, which complicates the circulation of fluid in the body.
Many people are comfortable working while standing.
Stagnation of fluid in the pelvic area leads to inflammatory diseases of the organs in this area, which has a detrimental effect on women's and men's health. In addition, overload of the spine in any case affects the overall fatigue of the body.
Height-adjustable tables are now popular among manufacturers of furniture for schoolchildren.
The optimal height of a computer desk, on the contrary, increases human performance and student performance. It also gives a boost of energy and increases productivity.
Photo of computer tables in the interior
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First of all, a computer desk is designed for certain actions. However, it is important to ensure the correct position of the human body and comfortable working conditions. When purchasing, you should pay attention to color, design, material, so that this piece of furniture fits harmoniously into the overall design of the room.
Materials
The main materials used in the manufacture of tables:
- Chipboard and MPF with veneer or plastic finishing;
- tree;
- glass.
Comparison table of materials for computer desk
Material | pros | Minuses |
Chipboard and MPF | Availability, variety of design | Low moisture and heat resistance, tendency to mechanical damage, peeling of the finishing layer |
Tree | Ecological cleanliness, presentable appearance | High price |
Glass | Environmentally friendly, stylish appearance | High cost, prone to mechanical damage, the appearance of fingerprints and stains, any dirt is clearly visible |
The most versatile material is chipboard. Despite the list of disadvantages, if used correctly, there will be no problems with chipboard furniture. Wood and glass are materials for those who want to see a computer desk not only as a workplace, but also as an interior decoration.
Instructions for making a table with your own hands
After creating the drawings and cutting out the parts, you can proceed directly to assembling the furniture. It is important to first prepare all the small components, such as furniture corners and guides for the retractable surface for the keyboard and the necessary tools.
Follow the instructions for assembling the table.
Step-by-step instruction:
- Round the corners of all parts. On the sides, cut out the corners for the baseboard.
- Using furniture corners, fasten the main parts: table top, sides and back part.
- Check how comfortable a person feels at the table and how the furniture is installed in the designated place.
- If everything is in order, then you need to tighten the screws in the furniture corners more firmly and continue assembly.
- Turn the product upside down. First, additional vertical parts are attached, after which shelves, guides for drawers and a pull-out panel are installed. Special legs are screwed onto the bottom to protect the floor from scratches.
Features of use
Each of you has the feeling that the things in your home live their own lives. For example, when your child scattered toys, and your husband again left the tablet and its charger in the “wrong” place. When among the many things you cannot find what you need, then the time comes when you should think about purchasing an additional device for storing them. A table with a rack can be your salvation.
This is a universal thing that will not only help you harmoniously organize the space of your apartment, but will also help you leave all the necessary things in a visible place. The advantage of this furniture is that it is perfect for any room, be it a living room or a kitchen.
Due to the different designs, this product can be used for different purposes. For example, a vertical model can act as a night table or a small “cabinet” for storing books in a home office.
On some shelves you can put books and even flowers, while on others you can set aside space for gadgets and chargers so that they don’t get lost from sight. The lowest shelf can be left for toys, thereby instilling in the child a sense of responsibility.
Due to the fact that most models are made of natural wood, such furniture will serve you for many decades. Thanks to their classic look, the products will suit any interior.
Designs with folding, built-in and pull-out tables are a modern solution. You can choose the most suitable model for your room. Today, techno-style models with a side table are becoming increasingly popular. In them, the table is placed on the side, which helps save space in some non-standard rooms.
In order to divide the room into zones, you can use the option with a dividing rack and a shelf for documents. This model does not need to be placed near the window, but it is better to place it in the middle of the room. Such a closed shelving, for example, will separate the work area from the relaxation area. It is advisable that thick material be used in production.
The choice is always yours. Do it right, taking into account all our recommendations.