Choosing the right desk size for your office is not just a matter of style or budget, it directly impacts productivity, comfort, and how efficiently you can use your office space, especially in a city like London where every square foot is at a premium. As hybrid work models, coworking environments, and flexible layouts become the new normal, office decision-makers need a practical and strategic approach to desk sizing. This guide breaks down the dimensions, trends, and considerations necessary to make informed decisions.
Standard Desk Dimensions in the UK
When planning your office layout, understanding standard desk sizes is essential. In the UK, typical desk dimensions fall within these ranges:
- Width: 120 cm to 160 cm
- Depth: 60 cm to 80 cm
- Height: Around 73 cm (standard seated desk height)
A common standard for individual workstations is 140 cm (W) x 70 cm (D). This size accommodates a monitor, keyboard, laptop, and workspace without occupying excessive floor space. Executive desks may reach up to 180 cm in width, while compact desks can go as low as 100 cm.
Office Space Constraints in London
Office space in London comes at a high cost, especially in areas like Mayfair, Shoreditch, and the City. The UK legal minimum requirement is 11 cubic metres of space per person, translating to roughly 4.6 m² of floor area, but this is widely seen as insufficient for modern workspace needs.
Most London businesses aim for 8–10 m² per person, including circulation, storage, and meeting space. For each desk, factor in an effective footprint of 2–3 m² to include space for a chair and movement. Cramped layouts can hinder productivity and increase staff dissatisfaction, especially in long-term serviced office spaces.
Desk Types and Their Dimensions
| Desk Type | Typical Dimensions (W x D) | Estimated Cost (GBP) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Rectangular Desk | 120–160 cm x 60–80 cm | £150–£300 | General office use, benching, assigned seating |
| Compact Desk | 80–120 cm x 50–60 cm | £50–£150 | Small offices, hot-desking, touchdown zones |
| Standing Desk (Sit-Stand) | 120–160 cm x 70–80 cm | £250–£800 | Wellness-focused, modern offices, tech firms |
| L-Shaped/Executive Desk | 160–180 cm per side | £200+ | Private offices, legal, finance, senior managers |
Trends in London Office Design
Hybrid Work & Hot-Desking
Many London companies are downsizing physical footprints, opting for hot-desking and shared workstations. This allows for fewer desks overall but often means that the desks must be versatile and well-equipped.
Coworking and Flex Spaces
Coworking providers across London (e.g. in Paddington, Clerkenwell, and Farringdon) typically allocate desks around 120 x 70 cm. Businesses using serviced office spaces in London will notice this dimension is standard for dedicated desks.
Agile Layouts and Modular Systems
Flexibility is key. Modular bench systems and lightweight desks on castors allow teams to rearrange layouts for projects and collaboration. These setups are increasingly common in tech and creative industries.
Ergonomics and Health Guidelines
Ergonomics are central to desk selection. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Desks should allow forearms to rest horizontally and monitors to sit at eye level
- Desk depth should be at least 70–80 cm if using monitors to ensure proper viewing distance
- Clear legroom and under-desk space is essential for comfort and posture
- Cable management, monitor arms, and adjustable chairs enhance ergonomics further
Under the UK’s Display Screen Equipment (DSE) regulations, employers are required to provide suitable desks, chairs, and screen setups for employees using computers. Investing in ergonomically sound desks supports productivity and reduces absenteeism.
Space Planning and Efficiency Tips
- Aim for 10 m² per person in open-plan designs
- Use modular furniture to adapt layouts as team needs evolve
- Include shared storage to reduce individual desk footprint
- Consider sit-stand converters where budgets don’t allow full standing desks
- Integrate breakout areas to reduce dependence on desk-based work
Choosing Desk Sizes by Industry Type
Tech Companies
- Recommended: 160 x 80 cm desks, dual-monitor capable
- Preference for sit-stand and ergonomic flexibility
Legal & Finance
- Executive setups with large L-shaped desks or U-shaped configurations
- Strong need for document space and meeting zones
Creative Agencies
- Prefer collaborative benches and large flat surfaces
- Desks 140–160 cm wide, often non-traditional layouts
Startups
- Compact desks (120 x 60 cm), scalable and mobile
- Focus on affordability and flexibility
Final Thoughts
In a high-density market like London, selecting the right desk size is about more than just fitting furniture into a room. It’s about optimising space, supporting your team’s workflow, complying with UK ergonomic and safety regulations, and aligning with modern office trends. Whether you’re fitting out a serviced office in Central London, planning a hot-desking system, or upgrading your hybrid workspace, start with desks that meet both functional and spatial needs.
Choosing the right desk size ensures your workspace is not just compliant and efficient but also a productive, pleasant place to work.
