When you think of executive office furniture, you probably envision large, heavy, dark, overwhelming pieces that are very formal. In actuality, an executive desk is really just a double pedestal desk with drawers on both sides. This is applicable for stand alone desks, U shaped desk suites and L shaped desk suites. Basically, any desk that is 36 inches by 72 inches, or larger, is considered to fall under the term “executive.” The reason that many people consider executive furniture to be bold, heavy and dark is because that is how executives are often portrayed in the media and on movies and TV. In truth, executive desks come in a variety of styles, including traditional and contemporary.
There are many different styles of executive office furniture and it does not have to be the stereotypical heavy, dark pieces. For example, Indiana Furniture Company has executive desks in their Madera collection that are both contemporary in design and is available in a very light, white oak. The size is what generally dictates the classification of executive furniture. This term is usually also added to the components and accessories of the executive desks, giving way to classifications such as “executive suites.”
These executive suites feature an executive desk as its primary piece and include such components as a credenza and other types of storage. All of the pieces typically match and are of the same line, offering a stylish theme to run throughout the office. This theme can even be run through the entire office space because many of these lines also have reception areas and even double desks for two workers. However, an executive suite only needs an executive desk to technically classify it as such.
Executive desks can also come in many styles. There is the bow top stepped front double pedestal desk. This simply means that the top of the desk is shaped like a “D” so that the front of the desk is curved instead of straight across. Of course, the double pedestal executive desk is straight across the front. There is also the left pedestal and right pedestal executive desks and these can also come with a bow top or a straight top. Finally, there is the cockpit executive desk. This desk has a concave indentation in the top of the desk, creating a small alcove where the person sits. This type can also come with the cockpit to the left or right and the pedestal is opposite, or with a pedestal on each side and the cockpit in the middle. This cockpit design also comes as a shell with no pedestal and can be offset to the left or right as well.
All of these types of executive office furniture offer many choices when creating a professional office setting. When choosing an executive desk, keep in mind the size of your office space. A desk that is too large for your space can make the space look smaller and cramped. Make sure that your office furniture is proportionate to the size of your office space.