When designing for collaborative areas, it is essential to take into consideration the seated posture, height of tables, and intended use of the space to ensure the setting is comfortable and utilized by team members. Below is a comprehensive guide to understanding the various Work Geometry applications at play within the workplace.
Occasional Applications
Table Height: 16" - 18"
In this application, the table will likely be used to place items such as coffee cups or phones not in use. Power access may be beneficial to charge items during a brief get-away from work.
- Meeting Type: Casual conversations, shorter duration, likely free of technology.
- Size of Group: Solo work or discussion with 2 – 3 people.
- Postures: Relaxed sitting or reclining.
Continental Applications
Table Height: 26" - 27"
Smaller table sizes may be more appropriate for intimate conversations.
- Meeting Type: Discussions that are intimate or informal, technology may be necessary to complete work tasks.
- Size of Group: Solo work or discussion with 2 – 3 people.
- Postures: Relaxed sitting.
Standard Applications
Table Height: 28" — 29.75"
For longer meetings where technology is supported, power access will be important. This table height is versatile and can accommodate casual meeting or eating areas as well as formal conference spaces.
- Meeting Type: Suitable for technology-based meetings that are formal or informal, medium to long in duration.
- Size of Group: Any, based on size of table.
- Postures: Engaged sitting.
Counter Applications
Table Height: 36" - 37.6"
Comfortable for sitting and standing work and a great option to promote posture changes. Higher or mid-back stools may be used for longer conversations.
- Meeting Type: Short to medium length meetings, formal or in formal, technology or not.
- Size of Group: Solo work or discussion with 2 – 6 people.
- Postures: Engaged sitting and relaxed standing.
Bar Applications
Table Height: 41" — 42"
Consider a lower stool back that can be tucked under the table and declutter the visual landscape. A footrest on the table or stool can support posture changes.
- Meeting Type: Quick, casual conversations. Place to pause and chat.
- Size of Group: Solo work or discussion with 2 – 6 people.
- Postures: Engaged sitting, leaning or upright standing.
Download the comprehensive guide to applications below.
The postures that workers assume in collaborative and café areas will differ from that of traditional workplace ergonomic postures. Our Work Postures Guide explores the Different seated postures for the various activities that will occur within these collaborative settings.