The History of Office Furniture

The History of Office Furniture

 

 

 

The evolution of office furniture is an intriguing journey that has taken place over hundreds of years.

The roots of office furniture can be traced back to the Middle Ages, with the rise of the Catholic Church and universities leading to the establishment of the first offices. These early offices typically had simple wooden desks equipped with basic supplies like quills and ink.

However, it wasn't until the Industrial Revolution of the 18th and 19th centuries that working in an office became widespread. The growth of industrialization resulted in the expansion of businesses and corporations, leading to the emergence of the office worker.

These early office workers were clerks and administrators who worked in large, open-plan spaces and used basic furniture like desks, chairs, and filing cabinets.

As the 20th century progressed, the design and functionality of office furniture advanced. The introduction of new materials like steel and plastic allowed for modern furniture designs to be produced. The focus on ergonomics also gained traction, with furniture manufacturers creating products specifically designed to support comfort and good posture.

A milestone in the history of office furniture was the invention of the "action office" system by Robert Propst in 1968. This innovative system aimed to boost flexibility and collaboration in the office and consisted of modular furniture that could be easily reconfigured to meet the needs of individual workers.

In the 1980s and 1990s, ergonomics continued to be a prominent focus, with the introduction of ergonomic chairs, keyboards, and mice. The trend towards open-plan offices also grew, leading to the development of furniture aimed at fostering collaboration and communication.

Today, ergonomics and design remain key drivers in the office furniture industry. Companies are now investing in ergonomic office furniture, such as height-adjustable desks and ergonomic chairs, to support 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 comfortable and ergonomic furniture.

The history of office furniture reflects the progress of technology and the pursuit of productivity. Although the essentials remain the same – a desk and chair – Inside Office can help you choose the right options for your office needs.