Get your Dream Office Setup

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Part of being productive at work includes having the perfect workstation that fits your needs, your space, and your style.  How can you design the perfect workstation?  Not even sure what your style is?  The key to designing the perfect office work area is to start with a desk and work your way up.

Find the perfect desk, chair, accessories, and more to fit your office space, work style, and storage needs.  You're sure to get more done and be more organized when everything you need is within arms reach. 

BONUS: Find the Perfect Clock 

It's TIME to get the perfect office! Telling time is always so much more fun when you have a sassy wall clock.
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Step One: Choose a Desk (option 1) 

The first component of a workstation is, well, the workstation! You may already have a piece of furniture that you will be using as a desk, but if you don't this is a perfect opportunity to find a really great desk that fits your needs just right.

The following are examples of pre-designed (some assembly required) desks that fit against a wall or in a corner, and provide varying levels of storage and design.

"L" Armoire Desk

This L-shaped desk would work perfectly in a room where little other storage exists. Place with the closet in a corner to create your own little work niche.

Amazon Price: (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

Step One: Build a Desk (option 2) 

If you have the construction-savvy or are willing to give it a try, building a custom or built-in desk may be the way to go. There are hundreds of great patterns available for desks, and these are some of my favorites.

When you build your own desk, you have the power to change dimensions and scales to fit your needs. You can also add a little flair, or special features for your unique needs.
Corner Cabinet
This tidy corner cabinet is great for a child or teen's room. Includes a keyboard tray, shelf and top storage. Pattern by Black and Decker.
Computer Armoire
It looks hard but has clean and simple lines. This pattern from Popular Mechanics would fit great in a dining room, living room, or guest room where you want to be able to close up shop for the day and hide it all away. Features lots of storage space and a classy design.
Desk and Shelf
Another pattern from Popular Mechanics, this piece is part of a full bedroom set that would go great in a teen's room. Offers lots of verticle cubicle storage, a drawer, and square design.
Built-in Corner Desk
Mike Slone has even created a video if you need more help designing and installing this simple corner built-in. Provides the perfect base for a fully customized corner office workstation.
Build a Home Office
This fabulous desk pattern has lots of clear pictures and even includes a cord trough! Expand or contract the size at your will. Simple sleek design offers lots of vertical storage and space for notes and pinups.

Step Two: Consider Office Ergonomics 

Ergonomics aren't a mysterious force that you need to be concerned with, they're the rules of body position that help you avoid discomfort and strain. Paying close attention to office ergonomics is important because computers and desks create all sorts of body position problems.
Ergonomics: Workstation Design
A great resource from Oklahoma State - check out the image that points out all the ergonomic issues you face as a computer user.
Selecting Ergonomic Office Chairs
An article that explains what to look for when selecting chairs for your office.
Healthy Webmasters Choose Ergonomic Computer Products
Computer products can also affect your body position. Learn what accessories can create the best angles and heights for optimum computer use.
Computer Workstation Ergonomics
The CDC even has some pointers on creating a health office workstation, and covers everything from reducing glare to proper lighting and wrist rests.

Step Three: Find the Perfect Chair 

The perfect chair does more than just give you a place to rest your hinder, it also allows you to focus on your work, rather than your sore back and dangling feet. Chairs on wheels can be handy if you wish to wheel around your work area.

Royale Leather Executive Office Chair / High Back w/ Gas Lift & Tilt and Ergonomic Lumbar Support

You will feel like the CEO in this fabulous, genuine leather executive chair. This chair has everything! It swivels in a complete 360 degree circle. It is equipped with a pneumatic gas lift, so you can raise and lower the chair with a simple pull of a lever. It tilts back, but also has a tilt lock, so you can keep the chair upright if you like. It also has a tilt tension control, so you can make the tilt as stiff or flexible as you like. The chair is mounted on a "5 star" set of rolling casters. The heavy-duty double wheels are extra sturdy, and hooded for your safety In addition to a great range of adjustment, this leather chair was ergonomically crafted to keep you comfortable in an office setting. The chair features extra padding in the seat to support the weight of your thighs. Also, there is an extra trick padded head rest to make it comfortable for you to sit back and relax. Seating is constructed of genuine cow-hide leather, backing is made of duraskin PVC for extra strength to resist tears if you back up into a cabinet or corner. The seat size is 20 inches wide by 18.5 inches deep. The back is 26 inches tall x 20 inches wide. The seat adjusts from 16 to 20 inches high. Some assembly is required.

Amazon Price: $78.77 (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

Model 201 -- Discontinued Bowen leather chair

You will feel like the CEO in this fabulous, genuine leather executive chair. This chair has everything! It swivels in a complete 360 degree circle. It is equipped with a pneumatic gas lift, so you can raise and lower the chair with a simple pull of a lever. It tilts back, but also has a tilt lock, so you can keep the chair upright if you like. It also has a tilt tension control, so you can make the tilt as stiff or flexible as you like. The chair is mounted on a "5 star" set of rolling casters. The heavy-duty double wheels are extra sturdy, and hooded for your safety. In addition to a great range of adjustment, this leather chair was ergonomically crafted to keep you comfortable in an office setting. The chair features extra padding in the seat to support the weight of your thighs. Seating is constructed of genuine cow-hide leather, backing is made of duraskin PVC for extra strength to resist tears if you back up into a cabinet or corner. The seat size is 20 x 21 inches. The back is 23.5 x 21 inches. The seat adjusts from 16.5 inches to 21 inches high. Some assembly is required.

Amazon Price: (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

Smoke Grey Chenille Fabric Mid-Back Ergonomic Office Task Chair

The Mid Back Ergonomic Task Chair features firm lumbar support, elegantly upholstered in high quality fabric. Adjustable height armrests with soft polyurethane pads offer maximum comfort, while hooded double wheel casters make for excellent durability. Also features a powerful pneumatic gas lift, providing instant seat height adjustment while the adjustable tilt tension control assures the right reclining angle. Available in Black, Wine, Chestnut, Smoke, or Sky Blue. Please see drop down menu for more information. Back Size: 21.5" H x 20" W. Seat Size: 21" W x 20" D. Seat Height: 17.5"-21.5". Overall Size: 25.5" W x 28" D x 38"-41.5" H.

Amazon Price: $129.00 (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

Madison Swivel Office Chair - Antique White

Understated and elegant, this hardwood swivel office chair adds class and style to any office. The retro styling takes its inspiration from early 1900 Mission-style furnishings with its curved arms, wide seat and slatted back. The adjustable-height base is supported by 5 legs, each with casters for easily gliding between desk, computer and files. The base features a 360° spin. Imported. 35Hx20W".

Amazon Price: $129.99 (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

BodyTrends 60/65cm Anti-Burst Blue Exercise Ball and Faster Blaster Pump

What is a YOGA ball doing in the office chair section? If you want to have great posture, tight abs, and reduce lower back pain, a yoga ball is just what you need in front of your keyboard. A primary benefit of exercising with a Bodytrends exercise ball as opposed to exercising directly on a hard flat surface is that the body responds to the instability of the ball to remain balanced, engaging many more muscles to do so. Those muscles become stronger over time to keep balance. Most frequently, the core body muscles - the abdominal muscles and back muscles - are the focus of exercise ball fitness programs. Using a Bodytrends exercise ball as part of a fitness program can include a wide range of difficulty levels, each requiring support from the back and stomach muscles that help firm up the trunk muscles in the body. Exercise balls are commonly used as part of a physical therapy program for individuals with low back pain.

Amazon Price: (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

BONUS: Get the Perfect Coffee Mug 

It's true, a desk isn't a desk without the perfect coffee mug. Find really awesome ones from our friends at CafePress!

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Step Four: Arrange your Keyboard and Monitor 

Keyboard drawers and monitor shelves help you adjust your technology necessities to the right angle and height so you put minimal strain on your back, wrists, neck, and eyes. If your desk doesn't currently have a keyboard drawer, installing one can be quick and painless. For monitors that don't adjust height-wise, consider a shelf that will raise it to the correct height and provide some extra storage underneath.

Kensington Extra-Wide 26" Keyboard Drawer ( K60006HD )

Maximize workspace by raising your monitor and storing your keyboard and mouse underneath. Monitor shelf adjusts 3" to 6" above the desk surface to provide the most comfortable viewing position. Fits all keyboard sizes including oversize and natural-shaped styles. Full length wrist pad and mouse pad included.

Amazon Price: (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

LCD MONITOR SHELF, BLACK

Your new flat screen monitor gave you lots of desk space but all the things you used to keep on top of your old CRT now litter your desk. Not any more. This new monitor shelf attaches to the desk itself creating a convenient self-contained shelf above your monitor. The molded ABS plastic shelf is very rigid, has metal support posts and can hold as much as 26 pounds. Get organized and clean up your desk.

Amazon Price: $24.95 (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

Step Five: Stash the Printer 

That pesky printer can get in the way, no matter how small it is. Plus you have ink cartridges and reams of paper to stow. A printer stand can provide easy access while keeping it off your workspace.

Bush Printer Stand [Kitchen]

Standalone printer stand allows you to keep your printer, fax, scanner, and other peripherals at bay. Open back allows for easy connections and paper feed. Durable surface. Adjustable shelf accommodates diverse supplies Also accommodates faxes and other peripherals Collection - New Generations Finish - Oakridge Oak dimensions 23 3/8"W x 29 3/8"H x 21"D

Amazon Price: (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

Printer Stand - 136-107-07

Classy stand will also hold your CPU unit, extra paper, or your scanner, fax, or other electronic necessities.

Amazon Price: $77.99 (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

Grand Alliance Mission-Style File Cart and Computer Printer Table, Natural

Attractive solid rubberwood mission style cart is the perfect place to keep your printer and paper as well as anything you want to stash in a file drawer. Fits letter and legal size folders. 24.75Hx22.75Wx18D"

Amazon Price: $59.99 (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

Step Six: Go Wireless 

Wireless keyboards, mouses (??), and internet connections used to be a luxury. With new designs in workstations and shorter cords (I'm sure it's just an optical illusion) it's becoming more of a necessity.

The good news is it won't cost you a fortune to go wireless. Add one piece at time until you're happy with your setup. Look to wireless adapters for genuine flexibility.

Logitech Cordless Desktop LX 700

The Logitech Cordless Desktop LX 700 is an elite blend of form and function. With flexible navigation, premium media controls, and a rechargeable optical mouse, it gives you full command of your digital experience. And its design is a work of art precise, sophisticated, and distinctive.

Amazon Price: (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

Microsoft Wireless Optical Desktop 2.0

Wireless Optical Desktop 2.0 combines a stylish design with wireless freedom for an all-in-one desktop solution. This enhanced keyboard-and-mouse package includes customizable keys and optical mouse technology.The keyboard and mouse work within six feet of the included receiver, even if your computer is out of sight. Redefine your desktop with the ergonomically designed Wireless MultiMedia Keyboard and Wireless Optical Mouse with unique clear scroll wheel. Quickly start Messenger, Mail, Internet, and Calculator programs with the click of a button, and get one-touch access to media and other files. Perform common tasks right from your keyboard. Press a button to open, close, save, send, and forward e-mails, and more.

Amazon Price: (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

Logitech Cordless Desktop S 530 Laser for Mac ( 967664-0403 )

Designed specifically for your Mac, the Cordless Desktop S 530 Laser for Mac has a stylish white and silver design that perfectly matches both consumer and pro Macs. The ultra-flat profile and built-in palm rest bring an amazing level of comfort. Dedicated one-touch controls for iTunes and iPhoto give you instant access to your music and photos. Programmable keys launch Safari, Mail, Spotlight, or any other application with a single press. The sculpted high-performance cordless laser mouse delivers exceptional comfort and enables pixel-precise photo editing. Longer battery life provides up to 6 months or more of standard use.

Amazon Price: (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

Linksys WUSB11 Wireless-B USB Network Adapter v4

If good things come in small packages, the WUSB11 from Linksys makes a great addition to a wireless network. Measuring about the size of a deck of cards and weighing just shy of 3 ounces, this little device fits nearly anywhere and is easily stowed in a notebook computer case. Simple USB connectivity makes it compatible with any modern PC, and also makes it easy to swap from one computer to another.

Amazon Price: $95.99 (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

TRENDnet 54Mbps Wireless G PCI Adapter TEW-423PI

TRENDnet's TEW-423PI 54Mbps Wireless PCI Card cuts the wires to your desktop and provides 54Mbps speed to handle bandwidth-intensive applications. It complies with the IEEE 802.11g standard, making it backward compatible with 802.11b networks for assured compatibility. Advanced 256-bit WEP encryption is supported to provide secure access for your data. Cut the wires and move your desktop where you need it with TRENDnet's 802.11g wireless PCI Card.

Amazon Price: $21.69 (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

BONUS: Get the Perfect Mousepad! 

Don't settle for that boring plain grey thing that came with your computer. Get a great mousepad that reflects your style.

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Step Seven: Lights and Electricity 

It's important to have proper lighting at your workstation. Sometimes you can rely on natural or overhead lighting, and sometimes you need a boost. Desk lamps are increasingly stylish and flexible. Don't forget the right light bulb to decrease radiant heat and provide that perfect white glow.

Surge protectors can be your savior when it comes to keeping your computer from frying during a storm. They help you avoid overloading your outlets and if you still have dial-up (you poor, POOR soul) or a desk land-line, are available with phone jack protection.

Black Adjustable-Arm Desk Lamp

Add contemporary appeal to your home office with this tall black desk lamp. Multi-adjustable joints allow the lamp to stand tall, providing the maximum amount of light on your desk. Or bring the light down low for a concentrated focus on an immediate task. Uses a 20-watt halogen bulb (included) and features a rocker o/off switch on the lamp base. Imported. Base: 4-3/4" dia.

Amazon Price: (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

American Lighting 9460TC Adjustable Desk Lamp

This American Lighting adjustable desk lamp features silver trim. It's an excellent choice for the home/office. As one of the most innovative lighting companies in the industry, American Lighting prides itself on staying at the leading edge in lighting design, selection, and quality.

Amazon Price: (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

Belkin Components F9M923-08 9-Outlet Maximum SurgeMaster

The SurgeMaster 9 Outlet Surge Protector offers solid-state protection safeguards your modem, phone, and DSL lines. It's designed to protect your computers and peripherals and guarantees a $250,000 Connected Equipment Warranty. Filters EMI/RFI noise up to 58 dB reduction 2655 Joules

Amazon Price: $28.53 (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

Monster Cable MP HTS800 Home Theater PowerCenter HTS800

The fact is, analog audio equipment is sensitive to a different type of noise than video, just as video is sensitive to a different type of noise than digital, and so on. In the past, manufacturers have used filters to combat the problem of noise introduced via power sources. Unfortunately, the filters were not optimized to attenuate at the different frequencies that are unique to digital, analog audio, and video realms. Products that managed to deliver truly cleaner AC power were thousands of dollars in price, out of reach for most people. Enter Head Monster Noel Lee. An uncompromising audiophile, Lee joined forces with Richard Marsh, the world's foremost expert on AC power, to develop affordable solutions to AC power problems. The result? Monster Clean Power.

Amazon Price: $39.95 (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

Step Eight: Get Vertical...with your Storage that is 

Having things sitting on your desk, plopped in drawers, and stacked on the floor is enough to drive any office worker insane. Calm the clutter with storage that goes up, up, up!

Whether you're keeping it on the wall or above your head, vertical storage can be both convenient and attractive.

Desk/Office Center

Clear off surface space and create order in your home office with this versatile desk and office organizer. Combining the strength and durability of steel with an attractive black finish, this unit gives your workspace clean lines and practical storage options. Plus, the storage components move easily to adapt to your changing needs. The durable, all-steel construction will not warp, fray or crack, and the baked-on powder-coat finish is attractive and scratch resistant. Easy to install with no framework required, the unit can be wiped clean for long-lasting beauty. Includes three 16x32" all-steel wall-mounted panels; three 9x16" shelves with dividers; a 12x16" shelf; two 6x16" shelves; and a hook pack. Made in USA.

Amazon Price: $150.00 (as of 01/06/2010) Buy Now

Dolce Dark Walnut Hutch

This beautiful dark walnut desk is from solid-wood construction for a sturdy work area. It features three shelves and a drawer as well as vertical storage along the top. Will fit beautifully on any pre-built or custom made desk.

Amazon Price: $79.99 (as of 01/06/2010) Buy Now

Advantus 02015 Grip-a-strip display rail, 96" long, 1-1/2" high, satin aluminum finish

Use available wall space to organize your important papers. Grips paper with patented interlocking roller system and holds it securely. Mounts with double-sided tape or mounting brackets (included). Won't damage paper or walls. Satin finish.

Amazon Price: $42.08 (as of 01/06/2010) Buy Now

Step Nine: Turn your Walls into Refrigerators 

Ok, not really. But you can use new magnetic paints to give them a whole new level of versatility!
Magnetic Paint from ABCstuff.com
Learn how this grey latex primer can help you get stuck on your walls.
Affordable Magically Magnetic Wall Paint
Get a free sample to find out how great this stuff is!
Remodeling with Magnetic Walls
A how-to from HGTV on creating magnetic walls with this simple to use latex paint.

BONUS: Get Fabulous Magnets for your New Magnetic Wall! 

Step Ten: Get Organized! 

Now that you have a fabulous new workstation, it's time to get it organized! Here are some great articles on cutting the clutter and designing great decor. They'll help you decide what you need for trays and boxes, and what really needs to stay on your desk.
Desk Organization
Solve your poor space planning, poor work habits, and task indecision to get organized.
Don't Agonize...Organize
Are you fed up with the state of your office -- too much paper, not enough time, and clutter everywhere? Professional Organizer Diane Hatcher has compiled 10 of her most popular articles on office organization to help you move from frustration to action -- including tips on dealing with supplies, saving time at work, and getting rid of the piles.
Spring Cleaning: Organize your Office
If your home office is spilling over into your home life, swallowing overdue bills and forcing you to spend more time excavating tax documents than actually doing your taxes, it's time to introduce some order to your workspace.
Organize Your Office and Improve Your Office Design
12 Steps to An Office Design That's Both Pleasing and Functional
Best Ways to Organize Office Furniture and Lighting
One of the most overlooked factors in designing an office space today is the lighting. Make sure you're getting just what you need.
The Top 10 Steps for Organizing Your Office/Workspace
Do you run late for meetings, misplace keys, files, important documents, or other items, run afoul of deadlines, or forget appointments? If so, you're not alone. Americans lose/waste nine (9) million hours per day looking for misplaced items, according to the American Demographics Society. If this is an area of challenge for you, follow the 10 simple steps below and get your work environment organized once and for all!

Step Eleven: Accessorize with Fun, Fresh, and Funky Stuff 

Of course if you turn your wall into a magnetic center, you'll need some colorful magnets to jazz it all up.

Magnets For Metal Presentation Board/File Cabinets, Assorted (OIC92500) Category: Magnets

Fun and colorful - primary color bubbly magnets will keep your notes attached to the wall and in arms reach.

Amazon Price: $4.46 (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

Swingline Collectors Edition 747 Rio Red Business Stapler (S7074736E)

"Excuse me, can I have my stapler?" Milton's Red Stapler!. As seen in the movie "Office Space". This red stapler combines the quality of the Swingline 747 Series with advanced ergonomic features. Features:Superior styling provides maximum stapler comfort. Staples 2-20 sheets.Stapler includes contoured cap and padded rubber base for comfortable, convenient, hand-held stapling. Also Available: SWI35450 SF4 staples.

Amazon Price: $18.22 (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

The Oxford American Desk Dictionary and Thesaurus

No matter who you are, EVERYONE needs a comprehensive dictionary. This is my personal favorite. As a writer, it has everything I need in a compact design.

Amazon Price: (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

ProctorSilex 42114 Single-Serve Pod Coffeemaker

So it's not really a desk-top product, but wouldn't you agree that everyone needs a great coffee maker? It brews an 11-ounce cup of single serve coffee. You can use ground coffee or a single-serve coffee pod , for added versatility. A pod holder and permanent filter ( for ground coffee) are included. The 500-watt unit comes with a 180-day warranty. To clean, simply handwash the removable parts. Sleek and small, it???s perfect if you have limited kitchen counter space or in an office. Does not have a water storage container.

Amazon Price: (as of 01/07/2010) Buy Now

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