Complete Office Furniture Buying Guide 2026 for Australian Offices & Home Workspaces

Most office fit-outs go sideways because people buy furniture like it's décor, not equipment.

The result is sore backs, messy cable spaghetti, noise you cannot escape, storage that never fits, and a space that looks fine but works badly. Then you pay twice because the "cheap" option breaks, or the layout is wrong.

This guide walks you through a practical process to choose office furniture that fits your team, your space, your budget, and the way people actually work (including hybrid and home office). You'll also get checklists, measurement tips, and a simple plan to avoid expensive mistakes.

Here's everything you need to know in under a minute

• Start with who uses the space and what work they do (focus work, calls, collaboration, storage-heavy roles)
• Measure properly (including doorways, lifts, corridors, and turning circles)
• Prioritise ergonomics first (chair adjustments, desk height, monitor position)
• Choose layouts that match your work style (open plan, pods, hot desks, meeting-heavy)
• Plan for noise, privacy, and calls early (acoustic control is always underestimated)
• Buy for durability and warranty, not just price
• Sort delivery, access, assembly, and downtime before you click "buy"

Table Of Contents

1. What this guide covers (and who it's for)
2. Step 1: assess needs (people, work styles, growth)
3. Step 2: measure your space properly (the stuff people forget)
4. Step 3: ergonomics basics (quick setup rules)
5. Step 4: choose the right furniture by type
6. Step 5: layouts that actually work (office vs home office)
7. Step 6: durability, materials and warranty (how to compare)
8. Step 7: acoustics, privacy and focus (the overlooked budget line)
9. Step 8: buying online without regret (photos, specs, returns, delivery)
10. Step 9: procurement tips for government and larger organisations
11. Why Area Office (and how we make fit-outs easier)
12. Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)
13. FAQs about Office Furniture
14. Build your dream office space

What This Guide Covers (And Who It's For)

This guide is built for Australian businesses, government facilities, and home office professionals who want to get their furniture decisions right the first time. Whether you're fitting out a 10-person office in Melbourne, setting up hot desking in Sydney, or creating a productive home office in Brisbane, the principles remain the same.

The difference between commercial-grade and home-grade furniture matters more than most people realise. Commercial furniture is designed for 8+ hour daily use, multiple users, and frequent adjustments. It comes with better warranties, replaceable parts, and materials that handle Australian office conditions. Home-grade furniture might look similar but won't last in a professional environment.

This guide covers traditional offices, hybrid workspaces, government facilities, and home offices. The process works whether you're buying one desk or 100.

Step 1: Assess Needs (People, Work Styles, Growth)

Before you look at a single chair or desk, you need to understand who's using the space and how they work.

Start With Headcount And Growth

• How many people work there today?
• What's your headcount in 12-24 months?
• Are you planning for hybrid work, hot desking, or assigned desks?
• Do you need guest and visitor seating?

Map Your Work Modes

Different roles need different furniture setups. Use this simple audit:

• Focus work: Deep concentration, writing, analysis
• Calls and video meetings: Phone-heavy roles, client calls, team catch-ups
• Collaboration: Team brainstorming, project planning, shared screens
• Client meetings: Formal meetings, presentations, hospitality
• Storage needs: Paper filing, personal items, equipment, samples

Plan For Accessibility And Inclusivity

Your furniture needs to work for different body types, ages, and mobility needs. This means:

• Chairs with wide adjustment ranges
• Desks that accommodate wheelchairs
• Tables at various heights for different preferences
• Easy-to-reach storage options

Consider Hybrid Patterns

If your team works hybrid, you might need:

• Lockers for personal storage
• Flexible workstations that multiple people can use
• More meeting spaces for team days
• Phone booths for calls in shared spaces

Step 2: Measure Your Space Properly (The Stuff People Forget)

Measuring sounds simple until your new desk won't fit through the door or the delivery truck can't access your building.

Room Dimensions And Features

• Overall room size (length, width, height)
• Power point locations and capacity
• Natural light sources and window positions
• Air conditioning vents and heating
• Fixed elements like pillars, stairs, built-in storage

Traffic Flow And Movement

• Main walkways (need 1200mm minimum clearance)
• Desk access (800mm behind each chair for movement)
• Meeting room access when tables are in use
• Emergency exit paths

Delivery Access Checklist

This is where most fit-outs hit problems. Use this table to check each access point before ordering:

Delivery Point	Minimum Width	Minimum Height	Additional Considerations
Building entrance	900mm	2100mm	Check automatic doors, security access
Lift/elevator	1100mm x 1400mm	2100mm	Weight limits, booking requirements
Stairwells	1000mm	2200mm	Check turning radius at landings
Office entrance	800mm	2100mm	Standard commercial door size
Internal corridors	1200mm	2400mm	Allow for furniture movement
Loading dock	3000mm+	3000mm+	Check timing restrictions

Pro tip: paper tape test
Use masking tape on the floor to mark out desk footprints and walkways. Live with it for a few days to test the flow before buying anything.

Step 3: Ergonomics Basics (Quick Setup Rules)

Getting ergonomics right prevents injury, reduces fatigue, and improves productivity. The key is adjustability because every body is different.

Chair Setup Fundamentals

• Feet flat on floor (or footrest)
• Knees at roughly 90 degrees
• Lumbar support in the small of your back
• Armrests level with desk surface
• Seat depth supports thighs without pressure behind knees

Quality office chairs should offer all these adjustments. Don't compromise on chairs since they're used 8+ hours daily.

Desk And Monitor Position

• Monitor top at or slightly below eye level
• Screen 50-70cm from your eyes
• Keyboard and mouse at elbow height
• Enough leg room under the desk
• Document holder at same height as screen

When Sit-Stand Desks Help

Sit-stand desks work best for people who:

• Experience back pain from prolonged sitting
• Want movement variety throughout the day
• Work in roles requiring energy and alertness
• Have height differences when sharing desks

The key is movement, not standing all day. Aim for 15-20 minutes of standing every hour.

For detailed chair selection guidance, check out our guide on the best office chairs for comfort.

Step 4: Choose The Right Furniture By Type

This is the meat of your buying decision. Here's how to prioritise your furniture investment for maximum impact:

Furniture Type	Priority Level	Budget Allocation	Why It Matters	Key Features To Check
Task chairs	Critical	25-30%	Used 8+ hours daily, affects health and productivity	Height adjustment, lumbar support, armrests, quality mechanisms
Desks	High	20-25%	Primary work surface, determines space efficiency	Appropriate size, cable management, stability, height compatibility
Workstations	Medium-High	15-20%	Space efficiency for teams, integrated solutions	Modularity, power/data integration, privacy panels
Storage solutions	Medium	10-15%	Organisation affects daily workflow	Security options, accessibility, appropriate sizing
Meeting tables	Medium	10-15%	Collaboration effectiveness, client impressions	Right size for space, cable management, durability
Acoustic pods	Medium	5-10%	Privacy and focus in open offices	Sound reduction rating, ventilation, placement flexibility
Accessories	Low-Medium	5-10%	Ergonomic fine-tuning, efficiency gains	Monitor arms, cable management, task lighting

 

5.1 Office Chairs (Task, Ergonomic, Meeting, Draft Chairs)

Chairs are your most important purchase. People use them 40+ hours per week, and bad chairs cause injury and discomfort.

What To Look For In Task Chairs:

• Seat height adjustment (pneumatic is standard)
• Lumbar support adjustment (height and depth)
• Armrest adjustments (height, width, angle)
• Seat depth options for different leg lengths
• Quality castors for your floor type
• Breathable fabric or mesh back
• Weight rating that exceeds user needs

Chair Types By Use:

• Task chairs: Daily desk work, full adjustability
• Meeting chairs: Conference rooms, may be stackable
• Draft chairs: Standing desks, lab work, reception counters
• Executive chairs: Private offices, client meetings, premium materials

Browse our full range of office chairs to compare features and prices.

Common Chair Mistakes:

• Choosing on looks alone
• Buying one size for all users
• Skipping lumbar support
• Ignoring weight ratings
• Cheap chairs that break within 12 months

5.2 Desks (Fixed, Sit-Stand, Corner, Executive)

The right desk supports your work style and fits your space constraints.

Essential Desk Features:

• Surface size that fits monitor, keyboard, and work materials
• Cable management (grommets, trays, or clips)
• Sturdy construction that doesn't wobble
• Appropriate height for your chair
• Storage integration if needed
• Easy-clean surfaces

Desk Types And Best Uses:

• Straight desks: Most versatile, easy to arrange, good for open plan
• Corner desks: Maximise space usage, good for L-shaped work
• Executive desks: Private offices, client meetings, built-in storage
• Sit-stand desks: Height adjustable, good for movement and shared use

For comprehensive desk selection advice, read our guide on how to choose an office computer desk.

Explore our complete selection of office desks to find the right fit for your space.

5.3 Workstations (Pods, Benching, Open Plan Systems)

Workstations work well when you need to fit multiple people efficiently while maintaining some privacy and organisation.

When Workstations Make Sense:

• Open plan offices with 6+ people
• Standardised setups across teams
• Shared power and data requirements
• Future reconfiguration needs
• Budget efficiency for large fit-outs

Key Workstation Features:

• Modular panels for privacy and noise control
• Integrated power and data
• Cable management systems
• Storage integration (pedestals, overhead bins)
• Screen mounting options

View our range of workstations for different team sizes and configurations.

5.4 Acoustic Pods And Phone Booths

Open plan offices need acoustic solutions. Pods provide private space for calls, focus work, and confidential conversations.

When You Need Acoustic Pods:

• Open plan offices with phone-heavy roles
• Hybrid teams that need video call spaces
• Client calls requiring confidentiality
• Teams needing focus time away from collaboration areas

Pod Placement Tips:

• Away from kitchens, printers, and high-traffic areas
• Near power sources for devices and lighting
• With sight lines for security and inclusion
• Good ventilation and temperature control

Check out our acoustic pods for different sizes and privacy levels.

5.5 Meeting Tables And Collaboration Furniture

Meeting tables need to support your meeting style, room size, and technology requirements.

Sizing Guide:

• 4 people: 1200mm diameter or 1400x800mm rectangle
• 6 people: 1500mm diameter or 1800x900mm rectangle
• 8 people: 2000x1000mm rectangle
• 10+ people: 2400x1200mm or larger

Essential Features:

• Cable management for laptops and screens
• Sturdy legs that don't interfere with seating
• Easy-clean surfaces for daily use
• Appropriate height for standard chairs

Browse office tables for meeting and collaboration spaces.

5.6 Storage (Filing, Cabinets, Credenzas, Lockers)

Good storage keeps offices organised and secure. Plan for different storage needs across your team.

Types Of Office Storage:

• Filing cabinets: Paper documents, legal files, records
• Personal storage: Pedestals, lockers for hot desking
• Shared storage: Credenzas, cupboards for supplies
• Secure storage: Lockable options for valuables and confidential materials

Storage Planning:

• Calculate paper storage needs (most offices overestimate)
• Plan for personal items in shared spaces
• Consider seasonal storage (archives, equipment)
• Include lockable storage for government and professional services

For workspace organisation tips, read our guide on keeping an organised workplace.

Explore our office storage solutions for all space types.

5.7 Packages For Fit-Outs (Fastest Way To Standardise)

Furniture packages simplify procurement and ensure consistency across your office.

Package Benefits:

• Coordinated design and functionality
• Simplified ordering and delivery
• Better pricing than individual pieces
• Faster decision making
• Consistent user experience

When Packages Work Best:

• New office fit-outs
• Standardised roles and workstations
• Limited time for furniture selection
• Multi-location consistency requirements

View our office furniture packages for complete workspace solutions.

5.8 Accessories That Improve Comfort And Productivity

The right accessories can transform a basic setup into an ergonomic, efficient workspace.

Essential Accessories:

• Monitor arms: Proper screen positioning, desk space saving
• Footrests: Ergonomic support for shorter users
• Cable management: Trays, clips, and grommets for organisation
• Task lighting: Desk lamps for detailed work
• Desk mats: Surface protection and comfort
• CPU holders: Keep computers off floors

Browse office accessories to complete your workspace setup.

5.9 Whiteboards And Pinboards For Planning And Collaboration

Visual planning tools support team collaboration and individual organisation.

Whiteboard Placement Tips:

• Meeting rooms: Position for visibility from all seats
• Team areas: Central location for shared information
• Personal workspace: Within arm's reach for quick notes
• Reception: Client-facing information and directions

Check our whiteboards & pinboards for different sizes and mounting options.

Step 5: Layouts That Actually Work (Office Vs Home Office)

Layout determines whether your furniture investment pays off or creates daily frustration. Use this guide to plan space requirements:

Office Type	Space Per Person	Recommended Desk Size	Walkway Width	Meeting Space	Best For
Open plan	6-8 sqm	1200x600mm	1200mm minimum	2.5 sqm per attendee	Collaboration-focused teams, cost efficiency
Team pods (4-6 people)	8-10 sqm	1400x700mm	1000mm minimum	3 sqm per attendee	Project teams, mixed work styles
Private offices	15-20 sqm	1600x800mm	800mm minimum	As required	Senior roles, confidential work
Hot desking	5-6 sqm	1200x600mm	1200mm minimum	More meeting rooms needed	Hybrid teams, space optimisation
Home office	4-6 sqm	1200x600mm	600mm minimum	Multi-use space	Remote work, small spaces

 

Layout Principles That Work:

Open Plan With Focus Zones

• Collaborative areas near entrances and amenities
• Quiet zones away from traffic and noise
• Phone booths and meeting rooms scattered throughout
• Clear sight lines for natural supervision
• Acoustic separation between different work types

Team Neighbourhoods

• Cluster teams that work closely together
• Shared resources within each neighbourhood
• Meeting spaces between teams for cross-collaboration
• Storage and printing accessible to each cluster

Hot Desking With Lockers

• Standardised workstations with identical setups
• Personal lockers near workspace clusters
• Booking systems for desk allocation
• More meeting rooms to accommodate team gatherings

Client-Facing Spaces

• Reception area that creates professional first impressions
• Meeting rooms near entrance for easy client access
• Private consultation spaces for confidential discussions
• Support spaces (kitchen, storage) hidden from client view

Home Office Layouts

• Spare room: Dedicated space with door for privacy
• Living nook: Corner setup with acoustic separation
• Compact study: Efficient use of small spaces with vertical storage

Noise Mapping Concept
Identify loud zones (kitchen, printers, main entrances) and quiet zones (focus work, phone calls). Then allocate:

• Acoustic pods near loud zones
• Focus desks in quiet zones
• Meeting rooms as buffers between different areas
• Collaborative spaces where energy and noise are welcome

Step 6: Durability, Materials And Warranty (How To Compare)

Commercial furniture costs more upfront but saves money over time through better durability and longer warranties.

Commercial Vs Residential Duty

• Commercial: 8+ hours daily use, multiple users, frequent adjustments
• Residential: Lighter use, single user, less movement and adjustment

Surface Materials Comparison

• Laminate: Scratch-resistant, easy to clean, good for high use
• Melamine: Budget option, suitable for light use
• Veneer: Professional appearance, requires more care
• Solid wood: Premium option, ages well with proper maintenance

Frame Construction

• Steel frames: Maximum strength, longest life, better warranty
• Engineered wood: Good strength-to-cost ratio, adequate for most uses
• Plastic: Lightweight, suitable for meeting chairs and occasional use

Warranty Considerations

• Chairs: Look for 5+ year warranties on mechanisms
• Desks: 3-5 year warranties on structure
• Workstations: 5+ year warranties on panels and frames
• Parts availability: Can you get replacement parts in 3-5 years?

Value Over Time Calculation

A $300 commercial chair lasting 7 years costs $43 per year. A $150 residential chair lasting 2 years costs $75 per year. The commercial chair is actually cheaper and provides better user experience.

Step 7: Acoustics, Privacy And Focus (The Overlooked Budget Line)

Most office fit-out budgets ignore acoustics, then spend twice fixing noise problems later.

Why Open Plan Fails Without Acoustic Planning

Hard surfaces (glass, concrete, metal desks) reflect sound. Large open spaces carry voices across long distances. Without acoustic treatment, you get:

• Constant distraction from conversations
• Inability to hold confidential phone calls
• Fatigue from noise stress
• Reduced productivity and job satisfaction

Quick Acoustic Wins

• Soft finishes: Carpet, fabric chairs, acoustic ceiling tiles
• Workstation panels: Fabric-wrapped screens between desks
• Strategic furniture placement: Use bookcases and storage as sound barriers
• Plants and soft furnishings: Natural sound absorption

When Acoustic Pods Are The Right Solution

Pods work best when:

• You have an open plan that can't be easily modified
• Phone calls and video meetings are frequent
• Confidential conversations are required
• Focus work needs complete concentration
• The space has hard surfaces that can't be changed

Step 8: Buying Online Without Regret (Photos, Specs, Returns, Delivery)

Online furniture buying works well when you know what to look for and ask the right questions.

Reading Product Specifications

• Dimensions: Overall, seat, work surface, clearances
• Weight ratings: User weight and load capacity
• Materials: Frame, surface, fabric specifications
• Adjustments: Range and type of adjustability
• Assembly: Required tools and estimated time

Key Questions Before Buying

• What's included in the price (delivery, assembly, warranty)?
• What are the lead times from order to delivery?
• Can items be returned if they don't fit or meet expectations?
• Are there additional costs for stairs, lift access, or assembly?
• What happens if items arrive damaged?

Delivery And Access Planning

• Confirm delivery vehicle access to your building
• Check timing restrictions (loading dock hours, building management)
• Plan for disruption during delivery and assembly
• Have someone available to receive and inspect items

Area Office Service Advantages

• Flat-rate metro delivery across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide and Perth
• Click and collect available for smaller items
• Assembly services to ensure proper setup
• Local support for warranty and service issues

Step 9: Procurement Tips For Government And Larger Organisations

Large organisations need different approaches to furniture procurement for consistency, compliance, and budget management.

Standardisation Strategy

• Select approved ranges for chairs, desks, and workstations
• Limit choices to 2-3 options per category
• Document specifications for repeatable ordering
• Create style guides for consistent appearance

Compliance Considerations

• WHS requirements: Ergonomic standards, adjustment training
• Accessibility: Compliance with disability access requirements
• Security: Lockable storage for classified materials
• Fire safety: Materials and placement compliance

Staged Rollout Planning

• Phase implementation to minimise business disruption
• Start with high-impact areas (new hires, complaints, worn furniture)
• Plan delivery and assembly during low-activity periods
• Train users on new equipment, especially ergonomic features

Budget And Procurement Process

• Get multiple quotes for large orders
• Factor in delivery, assembly, and training costs
• Plan for spare parts and future replacement cycles
• Consider leasing options for budget management

Why Area Office Makes Office Fit-Outs Easier

After 20+ years in retail and office furniture, we understand that buying furniture should be straightforward, not stressful.

Our Approach

• Australian owned and operated: We understand local businesses and regulations
• Commercial quality focus: Furniture built for daily professional use
• Service mindset: Support from initial questions through to setup and beyond
• Practical advice: Real-world solutions based on what actually works

Service That Makes The Difference

• Delivery network: Flat-rate metro delivery across major Australian cities
• Flexible pickup: Click and collect available for immediate needs
• Assembly support: Professional setup to ensure everything works properly
• Ongoing support: Local service for warranty claims and future needs

How We Simplify The Process

• Clear product specifications with Australian sizing and standards
• Honest advice about what works for different situations
• Package deals that take the guesswork out of coordination
• Delivery and assembly planned around your business schedule

Whether you're setting up a single home office or fitting out a 100-person facility, we're here to make the process smooth and successful.

Common Mistakes (And How To Avoid Them)

Learn from others' expensive mistakes with this practical checklist.

1. Buying Chairs Last

Chairs are your most important purchase and affect everything else. Choose chairs first, then select desks that work with them.

2. Not Measuring Doorways And Access

That perfect executive desk is useless if it won't fit through your building entrance. Always check delivery access before ordering.

3. Underestimating Storage Needs

Most offices need more storage than expected. Plan for personal items, seasonal equipment, and growth.

4. Ignoring Acoustics In Open Plan

Hard surfaces and no sound barriers create noise problems that expensive pods can't fully fix. Plan acoustic treatment from the start.

5. No Cable Management Plan

Modern offices need power and data everywhere. Plan cable runs and management before furniture arrives.

6. Buying For Looks Alone

Instagram-worthy furniture often lacks the adjustability and durability needed for daily professional use.

7. Choosing Non-Adjustable Furniture For Shared Spaces

Hot desks and meeting spaces need to work for different body types. Fixed-height options create problems.

8. No Plan For Growth And Change

Modular systems cost more initially but save money when you need to reconfigure or expand.

FAQs about Office Furniture

What's the first thing to buy when fitting out an office?

Start with task chairs. They're used most intensively and affect user comfort and productivity more than any other item. Good chairs also help determine appropriate desk heights and workstation configurations.

How much space do you need per person in an office?

Plan for 6-10 square metres per person in open plan offices, including circulation and shared spaces. Executive offices need 15-20 square metres. Home offices need minimum 2x2 metres for comfortable setup.

Are sit-stand desks worth it for most teams?

Sit-stand desks benefit people with back problems and those who prefer movement variety. They're excellent for shared workstations since they accommodate different heights. However, most people use the adjustment feature less than expected.

What makes a chair "ergonomic" in practical terms?

True ergonomic chairs offer seat height adjustment, lumbar support positioning, armrest adjustment, and appropriate seat depth. The key is adjustability to fit individual body types, not just marketing claims.

What's better for open plan, partitions or acoustic pods?

Partitions work better for permanent layouts and provide ongoing noise control. Pods work better for flexible spaces and specific activities like phone calls. Most offices benefit from both.

How do I choose furniture for a hybrid office with hot desking?

Standardise workstation setups so anyone can use any desk comfortably. Provide lockers for personal storage. Include more meeting spaces for team collaboration days. Focus on adjustable chairs and desks.

What should government facilities prioritise?

Durability, security (lockable storage), accessibility compliance, and standardisation. Government furniture gets heavy use and needs to meet specific regulatory requirements while lasting for budget cycles.

How do I plan delivery and assembly without disrupting work?

Schedule deliveries during low-activity periods (weekends, after hours). Plan assembly in stages starting with areas that can be temporarily vacated. Communicate timelines clearly to all affected staff.

What office furniture should I prioritise for a small home office?

Start with a quality ergonomic chair and appropriately sized desk. Add good lighting and storage. Consider noise control if you share the space. Focus on items used daily rather than occasional-use furniture.

Does Area Office supply office furniture across Australia?

Area Office supplies office furniture solutions across Australia. Service locations include Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Canberra, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, and Perth. This Australia-wide reach ensures consistent service, delivery, and support for offices nationwide.

Can Area Office help with a complete office setup?

Yes, Area Office can assist with complete office setups. Customers can combine tables, with desks, chairs, storage, workstations, and acoustic solutions to create a cohesive and functional workplace. This end-to-end approach helps ensure every space supports productivity and collaboration.

Build Your Dream Office Space

Getting office furniture right comes down to a simple process: understand your people and their work, measure properly, prioritise ergonomics, and buy for durability rather than price alone.

Here's your action plan:

• Start with chairs and desks since they're used most intensively
• Plan your layout around work patterns and noise management
• Add acoustic solutions early rather than as an afterthought
• Include adequate storage for current and future needs
• Factor in delivery and assembly from the beginning
• Choose commercial-grade furniture that will last

The difference between a successful fit-out and an expensive mistake is planning. Take time to understand your needs, measure properly, and choose furniture that supports how people actually work.

Ready to get started? Browse our collections of office chairs, office desks, workstations, and acoustic pods to find the right solutions for your space. Need help with delivery, assembly, or choosing the right setup? Our team is here to make your office fit-out smooth and successful.