6 simple steps to the ultimate desk set-up

A large part of all office work is centred around the individual workspace. Making it ergonomic is vital, but what other factors matter? For inspiration and assistance, here’s a guide to a well-planned, inviting, affordable set-up. Since the solution is also scalable, it’s equally useful for start-ups and already booming businesses.

A workspace centred around a TROTTEN sit-stand desk between a white TROTTEN sliding-door cabinet and a window with plants.

1. Be kind to your behind

It’s not without reason that office work is said to be a sitting job. Regardless of your line of work, staying seated for long periods deserves a good chair. Like a HATTEFJÄLL office chair. Easily adjustable and with excellent support. All done in a timeless style that goes well with just about any interior.

A softly sunlit office interior with plants above a workspace with a TROTTEN sit-stand desk and a HATTEFJÄLL office chair.

2. Find a desk to both sit and stand by

A truly ergonomic workspace is one that allows you to alternate body positions, in particular between seated and standing. That way, a desk with adjustable height can help with both well-being and productivity. When upright, a FREIVID standing mat can relieve pressure on your knees and back.

A sunlit workspace with a TROTTEN sit-stand desk between a white TROTTEN sliding-door cabinet and a window with plants.

3. Set the right lighting for a good day’s work

Proper working light – like the blue-enriched white kind from a NYMÅNE work lamp – stimulates your brain, alertness and performance. Then again, sometimes you need less light. Access to daylight is a boon, especially when filtered through green leaves, but complement with a blind to filter sharp sunlight.

EPIPREMNUM and other plants in white CHILISTRÅN hanging planters by a sunlit window with a white HOPPVALS cellular blind.

An office workspace with an IKEA 365+ clear-glass mug and a NYMÅNE work lamp on a desktop by a window full of leafy plants.

4. Have a tool for every task handy

A desk organiser is a super simple way to keep the things you need in order. And accessible, and visible. Having your go-to accessories collected also adds flexibility – it’s easy to take them with you whenever mobility counts.

An office interior with a white DRÖNJÖNS desk organiser filled with notebooks and work accessories, next to a magazine file.

5. Simplify coming and going

Whether your office has fixed spaces or is adapted to hybrid work, everyone gains from hassle-free docking. A cable management box keeps the desktop clean and cables hidden. Another shortcut to focused work, EILIF screens help to minimise noise and visible distractions (while doubling as noticeboards).

DRÖNJÖNS letter trays stacked on a shelf next to workspace equipped with a SÄTTING cable management box with lid.

6. Take a deep breath and relax

Caring for less obvious aspects of office life can really make a difference. After all, an office is more than furniture and paperwork. Like an air purifier improving co-workers’ sense of well-being. Last but not least, plenty of plants – real and artificial – can do wonders for both mood and creativity.

Leafy plants and a UPPÅTVIND air purifier on a sunlit sill above a desktop with a NYMÅNE work lamp and office accessories.

Before you buy

These solutions contain a mix of articles developed for domestic and non-domestic use. Please verify that your purchases are compliant and suitable for the intended use in your area. Contact IKEA for Business for more information about the range.

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