“The History of Office Furniture”

The history of office furniture is a fascinating subject that spans hundreds of years. The origins of office furniture can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when the rise of the Catholic Church and the development of the university system led to the creation of the first "offices". These early offices were typically simple wooden desks with a few basic supplies, such as quills and ink.

It wasn't until the Industrial Revolution of the 18th and 19th centuries that the concept of working in an office became the norm. With the rise of industrialization, businesses and corporations began to expand, leading to the creation of a new type of worker: the office worker. These early office workers were typically clerks and administrators who worked in large, open-plan spaces. The furniture in these spaces was basic and functional, with desks, chairs, and filing cabinets being the most common items.

As the 20th century progressed, the design and ergonomics of office furniture began to evolve. The introduction of new materials, such as steel and plastic, allowed for the creation of new, modern designs. The focus on ergonomics also began to take hold, with furniture manufacturers beginning to design products that were specifically designed to promote comfort and good posture.

One of the most significant developments in the history of office furniture was the creation of the "action office" system by Robert Propst in 1968. This revolutionary system was designed to promote flexibility and collaboration in the office and featured modular furniture that could be easily reconfigured to suit the needs of the individual worker.

In the 1980s and 1990s, the focus on ergonomics continued to grow, with the introduction of ergonomic chairs, keyboards, and mice. The trend towards open-plan offices also grew in popularity, leading to the development of furniture that was designed to promote collaboration and communication.

Today, the focus on ergonomics and design continues to be a driving force in the office furniture industry. Many companies are now investing in ergonomic office furniture, such as height-adjustable desks and ergonomic chairs, to promote the health and well-being of their employees. The rise of remote working and the need for home office furniture has also increased the demand for ergonomic and comfortable furniture.

The history of office furniture is really the history of technology change and the search for productivity. However the basics still remain the same – we sit at a desk on a chair. The history of Inside Office is shorter but we can help you choose the right desk and the right chair!