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A “desk return” refers to the portion of one of these desks that attaches to the main desk surface and extends outward to one side. On a u-shaped desk, the return is often referred to as a bridge, which attaches the main desk to a credenza. 

If you’re shopping for an l-shaped or u-shaped desk online, you’ll want to know exactly what type of return you’ll need before you make a purchase. Purchasing a desk with a return online can be tricky, so consider these tips before making your final decision.

L-shaped and u-shaped desks will come with 1 of 3 different types of returns: left-sided, right-sided, or reversible. A right or left return is determined by where the return is positioned in relation to your body while you are seated at the main desk. In other words, when you are seated at the main desk, a left return will be on your left side, and a right return will be on your right. A reversible return is a return that can be positioned to either the left or right side of the main desk, whichever you prefer. On many desk models, however, the return can only be attached to one side or the other, so be sure to read the product description carefully before making a selection. Measure your office and visualize where in the room your desk will be placed to determine whether you will want a left- or right-handed return.

 

Selecting a certain type of return is largely about your personal preference; however, your home or office may have space constraints that will force you to choose one type over the other. Be sure to keep in mind the overall dimensions of the desk. Remember, the total width of an l-shaped desk or u-shaped desk is equal to the width of the main desk. The total depth of an l-shaped desk is equal to the length of the return plus the depth of the main desk, and the total depth of a u-shaped desk is equal to the length of the return plus the depth of the main desk plus the depth of the credenza.

 

Another factor to consider is the functionality the desk return will have in your day-to-day work life. Typically, users are more comfortable using a return that correlates with their dominant hand. You may also need to facilitate other functions of your workspace, such as a computer area or space for guests.

 

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Sleek and sophisticated furniture is here to stay, and we’re not just talking about in your home. Due to its attractive look, modern furnishings are only gaining in popularity in offices all over the world. Modern office design creates an air of professionalism through minimalism, focusing on thin profiles and mixed materials. It’s a fashion statement that can be seen in every corner of an office, no matter how large or small the business may be. Here are some of the ways we’ve seen modern office furniture implemented in recent years.

Healthier Hospitals Initiative: What is it and How Does NBF Support It?

The goal of the Healthier Hospitals Healthy Interiors initiative is to ensure that 30% of the annual volume of furniture and furniture purchases eliminate the use of formaldehyde, perfluorinated compounds, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), antimicrobials, and all flame retardants. In its effort to help provide a healthy and safe environment for all healthcare providers, patients and guests, NBF supports HH Healthy Interiors in a few different ways.

How to Set Up a Lunchroom

Most offices have lunchrooms, but they aren’t normally at the top of the priority list when designing a new office space. However, a well-designed breakroom can make a big difference in the day-to-day work lives of your employees. Functional, good-looking lunchrooms can increase how often employees utilize the space, decreasing their desire to go out for lunch and enabling them to make healthier, less expensive eating choices.

Tables

One of the first things you’ll want to decide when designing your breakroom is what type of tables you need since tables can take up quite a bit of space in the room. Standard height cafeteria tables with attached or separate chairs are great options for large, open spaces. If you have a smaller room, you may consider smaller café tables that take up less physical and visual space. Lunchroom tables come in a huge assortment of styles and sizes, so you should have no problem finding the one that’s right for you.

Chairs

If you do not select a table with built-in seating, you’ll need chairs to go with your tables. Choose a collection with matching tables and chairs, or go with something totally different. If you select café tables, make sure you get stools of the correct height to ensure your employees are comfortable while seated. Choose from folding, stacking, mobile, and nesting chairs that are easy to move around and store when needed. Remember, armless chairs will make it much easier for users to get up close to the table to eat. 

Magazine Racks

Offering magazines to employees in your breakroom is a great way to keep them happy on their lunch breaks, especially for those who may have forgotten to bring their own reading material. Choose either a wall-mounted or freestanding magazine holder, and keep it well-stocked with the latest issues of the magazines your company subscribes to.

Message Boards

Message boards are a great addition to any lunchroom because they help get company messages across to employees much quicker when placed in a room that employees frequent. Because your employees will be utilizing your beautiful new lunchroom regularly, they’re sure to walk by your message board often, provided you place it in an easy-to-see spot.

Waste Receptacles

Although they aren’t the most glamorous items you’ll buy for your lunchroom, waste receptacles are essential. Before making a purchase, decide where your trash cans will be placed in your lunchroom and measure the space. You’ll also want to determine how many garbage and recycling bins will be needed right away since you can usually get a discount when ordering multiple receptacles at the same time.

Refrigerators

Don’t forget the refrigerator! The size of your company and the size of your lunchroom will determine how large or small of a refrigerator you’ll be able to get and how many you’ll need. Whether you need a large fridge/freezer combo or would rather equip your space with multiple small refrigerators, you have plenty of options.

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