The Executive Desk

Executive offices are often more than just a desk and a chair. Executive desks often come as part of a set. The set will include the main desk, a credenza with or without a hutch, bookshelves, file storage cabinets, and possible chairs.

One of the most common pieces bought in combination with the desk is a credenza. A credenza is a desk-like piece of furniture, which is usually placed next to a wall behind or perpendicular to your main work surface or executive desk. The credenza should be within easy reach of the desk’s occupant by either turning or wheeling the executive chair a slight distance. The credenza is often used for a computer so that the main workspace remains clear, a printer or scanner, or for storage of materials that are not used as often such as extra files or books. Others use their credenza as an additional workspace for large papers, blueprints, or anything that needs to be spread out. Some managers put their credenza away from the main executive desk next to a conference table to in a sitting area. Wherever it is placed, the credenza should match the executive desk in color and style.

Sometimes, the credenza will be a flat surface like your main executive desk, but more often, it has stacks of shelves, small drawers and nooks sitting on its main work surface. This part of the credenza is sometimes called a hutch. This configuration is commonly seen in older roll top desks and secretaries as well.

Other pieces of matching furniture could include bookcases, two-drawer and three-drawer file cabinets, lateral file cabinets, and hutches. The files often come with casters that allow the cabinet to be rolled under a desk, credenza, or wherever it is needed. These pieces will of course look much nicer than the average utility storage cabinets and selves most employees will have in their offices. Having these additional pieces of furniture can really make the executive office seem more regal.

In addition to the work related furniture, you will often find that an executive office is more of a suite because it includes a small seating area or a small conference table somewhere else in the room. The seating areas should be roughly circular in nature so that they can be used for small intimate meetings and social gatherings. The conference table will be smaller than what you would find in a full conference room. More likely, it will be small round table with approximately four chairs. Another reason that an executive workspace could feel nicer than other areas of the workplace is that they often have a lot of natural light from large windows. A spectacular view can impress a visitor to your executive office!