So now you have determined the role of your associate and have defined their function.  You realize their job will require casegoods (desks, credenzas, hutches, bookcases, etc.) for their hardwall office.  This will usually consist of a freestanding configuration, or an "L" or a "U" shape.

The desk will have a "modesty panel" which is the piece that goes across the front of the desk to create visual privacy for the associate's lower body.  That panel might be a "full modesty" which goes all the way down to the floor, or a "1/2 modesty" or "3/4 modesty" which would go 1/2 or 3/4 of the way to the floor.

The freestanding desk would be called a "double pedestal" because it has a set of drawers, or a "pedestal," at each end.  Those drawers could have many configuration options, among which might be: B/B/F (box/box/file), F/F (file/file), B/F (box/file), B/B/B/B, and many others.  You can usually order that desk with a center drawer, or you may want a keyboard tray instead.

Behind the desk would sit the "credenza." The credenza is designed to hold filing, supplies or even your computer.  It may have lateral files built into it ("double lateral credenza"), or pedestals at each end with doors in the center ("storage credenza").  It might also have pedestals at each end with the center being left open so you can pull up a chair and use it as a workstation ("kneespace credenza").

An "L" desk is a desk with a "return" that becomes an "L" shape when the two pieces are connected.  The desk is a "single pedestal desk" because it will have only one pedestal.  The return is defined directionally as a "right return" or a "left return," based upon which side of the desk it is on.  Left or right will always be determined based upon the position of the return to the user.  If you are working at the desk and the return is on the right, it is a "right return."  The return can be a shell (no drawers) or have a pedestal on the end.

A "U" configuration will have a single pedestal desk, a "bridge" and a credenza. The desk will be just like the "L" desk, but instead of a return being attached to the desk, there will be a "bridge."  This piece simply connects the desk to the credenza, forming the "U" shape.  Like the return, it is either a right or left bridge based upon it's location to the user.

To attach in a "U" configuration the credenza will be a single pedestal, but is usually not called that.  Often, the credenza will have a lateral file built in, due to it's size.

Sitting on the credenza or mounted to the wall is a "hutch" or "overhead storage"  These can be "open" (an open shelf) or "closed" (having doors).  Generally you want a "task light" mounted under the hutch.  This almost hidden light fixture significantly increases the illumination in your work area.

You may want to add a "tackboard" under the hutch.  This is a fabric-covered panel that attached to the hutch allowing you to pin things up (photos, important bulletins, etc.).  It also provides sound-absorption, aesthetically softens the workstation and, with the right fabric, can add a nice designer touch.

You may also want to consider bookcases, lateral files, wardrobe cabinets, glass covered shelves, and a myriad more options available.

Contact us at 702-471-0332 or james1.27@juno.com for assistance with your layout, or just for some free advice.  Remember, we specialize in quick-ship product and have thousands of items available in a two-day turnaround.