Is A Ball Chair Right For You?

Ball chairs are the latest ergonomic craze, but are they practical? Sure they look cool and make for fashionable interiors, but will they really make you a more efficient worker? That's what we're here to find out. Today on the blog we'll take a look into the modern ball chair and its benefits. Enjoy!

You've likely seen ball chairs on the web and you've probably been on the fence about giving one a try. For the purposes of today's post we've chosen to use the Zenergy exercise ball chair from Safco. It's very well reviewed and competitively priced.

The first thing we want to know is; Is this thing comfortable? At first glance the ball chair looks a bit impractical for everyday use. It's rather large and definitely draws attention. Once seated however, the Zenergy chair is very welcoming. The fully inflated ball sits at 23" high. We had several people sit on it and they were all at the correct operating height with a few minor tweaks to the amount of air in the ball. Like with most of today's ergonomic computer chairs adjustments should be expected. The pump that's included with the chair is easy to use, and should definitely be kept on hand.

First reactions are that the ball chair does what it's supposed to do, which is encourage continuous movement while computing. As taking a short 5 to 10 minute break once per hour isn't always realistic, ergonomically correct seating solutions like the ball chair can definitely come in handy.

The anti burst 17.5" ball puts your muscles to use. While it's not going to subconsciously help you get that beach bod, it does feel like you're exercising with minimal strain. It's not a substitute for regular trips to the gym, but it's not claiming to be. That said, it can definitely be used as a healthy addition to your regimen.

We honestly thought that the ball chair would feel overly wobbly. It doesn't. With the right amount of air in the ball, it's actually very stable and effective. The powder coated steel legs and stationary glides make for a well rounded experience. While we can't speak for all the ball chairs on the market, the Zenergy is definitely well made.

We also thought that the ball would loose air over time. Here in Florida this is very common with anything inflatable. We pumped the Zenergy up to the max and tested it throughout the week. Very little air was lost and overall we were quite impressed.

The real question is; Is a ball chair right for you? In all honesty, this thing isn't for everyone. However, it's not a novelty at all. If you're suffering from upper back and neck issues, you'll definitely benefit more from a traditional ergonomic task chair with a headrest. 

Alternatively, young professionals looking to stay active in the workplace will love the Zenergy. It's fun to use and makes you feel like you're getting in shape while working. We were skeptical at first, but after a thorough review we fully believe that the Zenergy reduces fatigue and promotes healthy muscle movement in the office.

It's easy to picture the Zenergy chair in cubicles, on the lobby floor, and even in a music studio. The ball chair is versatile, cool, and beneficial. It's also easy to use and made just about everyone who tried it feel like they were more active. 

We'll leave you with this thought... Everyone who tested the Zenergy immediately started smiling. This thing is definitely fun! We feel comfortable giving it a 4 out of 5 star rating. Our main critique is that it lacks upper back support, but that's not what it's really meant to provide. Overall, the Zenergy is a winner. We come away very impressed and will definitely recommend it.

6 Big And Tall Office Chair Recommendations For 2018

Finding a reliable big and tall office chair is easier said than done. These days, not all chairs are created equal. Doing your homework is an absolute must. Lucky for you, we're here to help. Today on the blog we'll take a look at 6 of our favorite big and tall office chairs. These seating solutions provide exceptional support and won't let you down when you need them most. Enjoy!

First up is the OFM Stratus series 24 hour big and tall office chair that supports users up to 350 pounds. The Stratus has been around for about a year, but just a couple of weeks ago OFM made it available with a black vinyl seat. Why is this important? Because vinyl is far more durable than low grade fabrics. This chair is built to last and withstand the rigors of everyday use. The seat can simply be wiped clean as needed to ensure good looks for years. This modern big and tall chair is an absolute winner at just $316.99.

Admittedly, we're in love with the OFM Avenger chair. In all honestly, shoppers are buying this chair that don't even require big and tall mechanisms because it looks so cool! The 811-LX Avenger chair is heavy duty, easy to clean, distinctively modern, and so much more. This multi purpose chair can be used effectively in conference room environments and executive office settings.

OFM isn't the only manufacturer crafting elite big and tall seating solutions in 2018, although we fully understand if you've already settled on one of the chairs listed above. That being said, if you're still looking for recommendations, check out the TS5451-3 Truform office chair from Global. Talk about a work horse! This ergonomically correct computer chair that supports up to 350 pounds comes equipped with a multi functional mechanism, adjustable arms, and natural contours designed to provide next level support.

Check out this multi shift executive chair with a tractor seat from RFM. Talk about cool! The 98950 model chair is all about efficiency and computing comfort. This posture promoting high back chair includes a neck support pillow to help workers of any size enjoy a relaxing sit during even the most task filled work days.

Up next we've got a practical big and tall office chair from Eurotech that's also a bargain buy. The BT350 chair priced at $282.00 packs a major ergonomic punch. This ventilated tasker with adjustable arms supports up to 350 pounds and comes standard with ergonomic mechanism attributes that include swivel tilt, tilt lock, tilt tension control, and seat height adjustment. At this price point, you'll be hard pressed to find a better office chair at even twice the price.

Last but certainly not least is the Flash Furniture BT-20180-GG big man office chair with a breathable mesh back. Even at first glance you'll quickly see that this chair boasts generous dimensions. The wide back and thick padded seat work together to provide supportive accommodations for larger chair operators. The BT-20180-GG is ready, willing, and able to support up to 500 pounds and also come standard with a set of padded flip up arms that make it easy to enter and exit your sit. At just $258.99 this full equipped ergonomic chair is an excellent buy that can be relied upon in both home and professional workplace settings.

Global StreamLINE Desks Provide Unrivaled Durability

When it comes to quality office furniture and seating, Global knows their stuff. As one of the most respected brands in the industry, Global has made it their mission to craft high quality desks that are built to last and withstand the rigors of intensive work environments. Take one look at the components from their StreamLINE collection and you'll quickly see what we mean.

First and foremost, StreamLINE desks are nice to look at. Most of today's heavy duty metal office furniture tends to look at bit clunky. This isn't the case with StreamLINE desks. They're attractive and sure to earn your interiors the compliments they deserve.

With the StreamLINE series you can create fashionable private office interiors, as well as group work environments for collaborating. The modular components from this popular collection make it easy to expand, grow, and adapt as needed.

StreamLINE desks feature heavy duty metal sides and scratch resistant laminate surfaces. With 28 paint finishes and 22, creating a configuration to match your decor needs is an absolute breeze. It's no wonder why StreamLINE is a top choice of interior design teams.

It's easy to picture StreamLINE furniture in intensive work environments. In warehouse settings, this popular Global office desk collection excels. In the classroom, StreamLINE is ready to work and built to last. You simply can't go wrong with StreamLINE for long term applications.

In terms of value, StreamLINE office desks are a great buy. Stand alone desks are available for less than $1000.00 while larger U shaped configurations with returns, credenzas, and overhead hutch units are about $2000.00. Another benefit of this line is that pieces are sold individually. This means you can create a custom layout to meet your needs while avoiding the purchase of components you don't.

After a thorough review, we feel comfortable giving the StreamLINE series a 4 out of 5 star rating. While the components from this line probably won't be your best best for a modern makeover, they're great for durability and intensive use. If you're loving the look and benefits of this metal furniture collection, prepare in advance as the pieces from StreamLINE take approximately 3 to 5 weeks to manufacturer and ship. Overall, this is an awesome furniture line that's built to last and look good doing it.

New In January: Ergonomic Mesh Chairs, Dry Erase Furniture, and More!

Top office furniture and seating brands are kicking off the new year with a bang. This month we've already seen an abundance of cool new products hit the market. From ergonomic mesh chairs to modern bookcases, industry leading manufacturers have made it their mission to simplify office remodeling projects while simultaneously boosting corporate appeal and comfort. Today on the blog we'll showcase a few of the newest products January has to offer.

The team at Offices To Go is stepping it up yet again. This month they're released a total of 13 new office chairs. There's a lot of great new additions, but our personal favorite is the 11325B. This mesh back managers chair with an adjustable lumbar support packs a major ergonomic punch. The 11325B is also an absolute bargain buy at just $234.99.

This year office tables and desks with dry erase surfaces are going to be a huge hit, and why shouldn't they be? Traditional wood finishes will always have their place, but this year white is incredibly popular and the ability to jot down important notes right on your fashionable white desk surface means you no longer have to go scrambling for a post it note. Popular dry erase tables like the 9008 Endure from OFM even feature standing height surfaces and swivel out stools. They're a must consider for any collaborative interior.

Perch stools rocking professional interiors across the globe. They encourage continuous muscle movement and provide extra support when working at standing height surfaces. Popular Perch stools like the Focal Locus from Safco even feature anti fatigue mats for an improved operating experience. Smaller Perch stools like the Mogo from Safco can be taken with you on the go to provide a seat where you need it, when you need it.

It's time to take a stand for ergonomics. This year standing height conference tables, desks, and drafting tables are all hitting the market to reduce the need for extended sits that cause energy dips and posture related issues. We're absolutely loving the standing height desks from brands like OFM, Safco, and Global. If you don't want to purchase all new standing height furniture, you can retrofit your existing work surfaces with the S2S attachment from ESI. This sit to stand surface convertor is effective, affordable, and incredibly beneficial. It's even got a built in platform for your keyboard tray.

The team at Modway is rocking home living rooms, office lobbies, and professionals waiting rooms with their mid century modern accent chairs and sofas. This reputable brand takes pride in being on the forefront of trends. Take one look at their EEI-1011 model tufted fabric sofa from the Empress collection available in 10 color options and you'll quickly see what we mean.

Last but certainly not least, no article on January's hottest new products would be complete without showing you the 4760 model Zenergy exercise ball chair that can swivel from Safco. This inflatable chair is surprisingly practical and very comfortable. The Zenergy will keep you moving throughout the day to reduce fatigue and improve blood flow. It's not going to give you a 6 pack, but it definitely makes for a more active work day.

Traditionalists Will Love The Modway Chart Chair

When it comes to traditional furniture and seating, Modway knows their stuff. This reputable brand specializes in the provision of fashionable components that work great in both home and business settings. As modern trends come and go, the timeless appeal of traditional furniture has stood the test of time. Take one look at the Chart chair from Modway and you'll quickly see what we mean.

The Chart chair is nothing short of a statement piece. This traditionally inspired sitting room chair is inviting, accepting, and classy. Even at first glance you'll notice the heavily tufted back that's contoured to provide a great sitting experience.

This brown vinyl lounge chair would be an excellent option for any sitting room, traditional guest reception area, or even a whiskey bar. The natural wood legs pair perfectly with just about any upholstery and furniture finish you'll likely be looking to match.

The EEI-2147 Chart series lounge chair from Modway provides unrivaled attention to detail. From every angle the Chart chair is a head turner. The rolled arms and thick padded seat work in harmony to create a comfortable visitors chair that's easy to reposition as needed.

While most of today's tufted chairs with traditional flair are priced well over $1,000.00. The Chart is currently available for $624.75. While still a bit pricey for the average shopper, the vinyl upholstery has brought down the price point to keep the Chart lounger relatively practical.

If you're looking to skip today's modern furniture movement in order to refine your interior, devote your attention to this elegant seating solution from Modway. This bold yet well rounded guest chair will distinguish any space it's utilized in.

After a careful review and sit test, we feel comfortable giving the Chart chair a 4 out of 5 start rating. It's very attractive, durable, and comfortable. This chair can be used in a variety of everyday applications effectively. Traditionalists will love the EEI-2147 Chart chair from top to bottom. It's a bit pricey, but those who can swing the investment will be rewarded with one of the coolest traditional lounge chairs on the market.

Lobby Design Ideas: Cool Accent Tables For Your Space

Brands like Modway, Mayline, and Global have made it their mission to craft fashionable lobby furniture solutions you'll love in 2018. If you're looking for ways to make your space pop and distinguish it from the competition, these top manufacturers have you covered. Today on the blog we'll highlight cool accent tables from these brands that should be considered for your project. Enjoy!

Nobody offers a larger selection of accent tables for the lobby than Modway. With more than 50 options available, you'll be at no shortage of ways to compliment your design theme. One of our personal favs is the EEI-2649 Camp collection table. Talk about unique! This versatile table can be used in traditional, retro, and even mid century lobbies to wow visitors.

Another cool Modway accent table to consider is the Etch. It's affordable at $193.75 and distinctively modern. The circular design with accenting ports and a glass top work together to create one of the coolest end tables on the market. The Etch can be paired with just about any fabric or leather upholstery option you can think of thanks to it's polished chrome design.

Moving right along, allow us to introduce the M103C Midnight series bourbon cherry coffee table from Mayline. Even at first glance you'll be drawn in for a closer look at the black granite top. This luxurious accent table is perfect for upscale lobbies looking to capitalize on the timeless appeal of traditional leather seating and veneer furniture.

Global is one of the most respected lobby furniture and seating manufacturers on the planet. With so many cool collections, it's no wonder their accent tables are regularly utilized by design teams. Popular Global accent tables like those from the Wind Linear series even boast integrated storage compartments that come in handy when organizing guest reading material.

The team at OFM also offers an excellent selection of accent tables that will do wonders for your lobby. Our personal favorite is the 66T model Hex table. It's modular, incredibly fashionable, and surprisingly affordable. This cutting edge table is ready, willing, and able to serve as a statement piece in your lobby.

If you're in need of lobby remodeling ideas in 2018, look no further than the powered furniture from the OFM Axis collection. With powered lobby components you'll be able to quickly and easily improve the guest experience by allowing them to use and charge devices while they wait without fear of draining precious battery life. Take a look at the 4004C model from the Axis  series and you'll see what we mean. This powered guest reception ottoman is an absolute winner at $555.99.

5 Keys For Improved Collaboration in 2018

These days collaborative remodeling terms are thrown around the workplace more than the word "ergonomics". The ability to create fashionable office interiors that encourage creativity and healthy employee interaction is too much for businesses to pass up. In 2018, it's important to emphasize the need for improved collaboration in the workplace. That's where we come in. Today on the blog we'll provide you with 5 keys for success.

1.) Ditch The Cubicles

First things first, you've got to ditch the cubicles. If you want to create collaborative office interiors in 2018, high wall cubicles will be a hinderance. Sure replacing your existing cubicles will be pricey, but the benefits gained will serve your business well for years to come. Traditional panel furniture systems are great for privacy and noise reduction. Unfortunately they close employees off from one another and that makes it hard to effectively collaborate.

2.) Invest In Collaborative Benching

Looking for cubicle alternatives? Collaborative benching systems are the way to go. Believe it or not, this popular form of modern office furniture is actually pretty affordable. Brands like Global, Mayline, and Cherryman Industries are all offering awesome group benching solutions that will encourage employee interaction and creativity. With collaborative benching you'll be able to create unique layouts and configurations that maximize your square footage without making your work floor and employees feel overwhelmed without too much furniture and not enough workspace.

3.) Focus On An Open Concept

If the goal of your work floor remodeling project is to see how many people you can fit into a single space, today's post probably isn't for you. Here the mindset is all about "how many people can we properly accommodate comfortably" to encourage healthy collaboration without making them feel overcrowded and cramped. For these reasons, working towards an open concept layout is preferred.

Cubicles are the perfect example. The high walls make it hard to create an open concept feel. For this reason, work floors outfitted with cubicles typically feel clustered. Alternatively, open concept furniture like group workstations and benching will help create clean site lines. While this may encourage long range conversations across the work floor, it's still better than forcing employees to walk through rows of crowded cubicles to collaborate with coworkers when good ideas are flowing.

4.) Power Up Your Interiors

Pave the way for improved collaboration with powered furniture. Top furniture and seating brands have made it their mission to streamline office activities and improve collaboration in 2018 with awesome products. These days universal power modules, charging stations, and powered furniture is becoming the standard.

When remodeling group spaces like the waiting room, break room, training room, and conference room, don't be your own worst enemy by investing in non-powered furniture. Strive to keep your interiors collaboration-ready and up to date with the latest trends. Rest assured, powered components are the way to go. They're really not that much more expensive. The benefits gained however, are incredibly valuable.

5.) Accessorize

Last but certainly not least, the right combination of office accessories will no doubt help you lay the groundwork for effective collaborating in 2018. In the long run, the little details always tend to make the biggest difference when it comes to corporate remodeling.

We touched on universal power modules briefly above, but it's definitely worth mentioning again. Units like the FlexCharge9 from ESI make it easy to power up conference rooms and group work environments in order to streamline collaborative meetings and presentations.

In addition, you'll also want to check out collaborative products like mobile dry erase boards that can be taken from space to space throughout the day. When the good ideas are flowing, marker boards make it easy to collaborate in large groups that make everyone feel includes. Popular options like the B5672FBP from Global will greatly improve operational versatility without restricting creativity.

Ergonomics 101: Transitional Products Are The Future

Transitional office products are changing the way we work. They make it easy to reduce strain and fatigue while improving posture and blood flow. Transitional keyboard trays, monitor arms, and desktop convertors are becoming workplace standards that encourage continuous movement and healthy operating habits that can't be overlooked. Today in our 'Ergonomics 101' series we'll showcase popular products for sit to stand transitioning that you can't go wrong with in 2018.

First up is the noble keyboard tray. We all know that keyboard trays increase usable desk surface space and help fight back against office epidemics like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome by encouraging healthy computing angles. What you might not know is that transitional keyboard trays with sit to stand capabilities are now available to further improve your workstation. With a sit to stand keyboard tray you'll be able to quickly adapt at a moments notice to tackle fatigue and refresh your posture habits.

You'll want to pair any transitional keyboard tray with a like-minded monitor system. If you don't, you'll be standing up to type, but looking down at your screens when doing so and susceptible to unnecessary neck strain. For these reasons, sit to stand monitor arms are becoming more and more popular. Popular options like the Allure from Symmetry Office are undoubtedly the future as they work with almost any workstation, improve computing posture, reduce visual strain, and of course... simplify sit to stand transitioning.

If you want to turn your existing office desk into a sit to stand workstation, go with a transitional surface convertor. Brands like ESI, Symmetry Office, and OFM are all crafting top notch convertors with integrated keyboard platforms that make it easy to transition between sit-down and stand-up work positions in 2018. Surface convertors are easy to install, affordable, and incredibly beneficial. Most can be used with just about any desk you have, but check the measurements before investing to be on the safe side.

With the demand for transitional computer hardware at an all time high, innovative brands are thinking outside the box to introduce new products trends. Take a look at the 2800 model Vivo stool from OFM and you'll quickly see what we mean. This perching stool is perfect for any worker utilizing sit to stand products and boasts an integrated rear handle that allows it to be taken where it's needed, when it's needed.

If you're really wanting to step up your ergonomic game in 2018, electronic desks are the way to go. While adding attachments is certainly more affordable for those that already have furniture, shoppers looking to remodel their interiors are making the switch to electric configurations with push button sit to stand capabilities. A desk like the STL37H2 from the Mayline Sterling collection will allow workers to compute at virtually any height they desire up. Electronic workstations like this one are still a ways away from becoming affordable and practical for the average worker. That said, they do prove that transitional products are the future.

New In 2018: OFM Computer Stations

OFM is gearing up for a big year. This industry leading office furniture brand takes pride in crafting affordable computer stations for the home and business. Today in our 'New In 2018' series we'll be showcasing a few of our favs. These modern desks for desktop and laptop computers are stylish, well made, and budget friendly. Enjoy!

First up, the ESS-1020 Essentials L shaped desk. This fashionable computer workstation with laminate surfaces and a metal frame provides exceptional surface space and a modern look that's sure to impress. The ESS-1020 is available in a choice of 2 finish options for just $135.99.

Limited on space? Check out the ergonomically correct and equally versatile 66100 model Mesa workstation. This small desk that doubles as a mobile podium is an absolute winner. The 66100 is available in a choice of white and cherry finish options for $195.99. The best part about this workstation is that it's height adjustable, which makes it easy to transition between sit down and stand up operating positions with the pull of a single lever.

The ESS-1003 home computer desk from the OFM Essentials Series is the perfect option for budgeting office furniture shoppers in 2018. This personal workstation boasts a shelf for accessories, wire management cutouts, and supports up to 200 pounds. At just $95.99, this desk is really hard to beat.

It's no secret that sit to stand office products are the latest craze. The encourage good posture and constant movement in the workplace. Much like sit to stand products, powered workstations like the ACCTAB are becoming an industry standard. This small workstation with USB inputs can be used in lobby, waiting room, reception, and even small home office environments to improve operational productivity.

We're wrapping up this edition of 'New In 2018' with the ESS-1000 model desk from OFM. This floating top desk available in cool finish options like Driftwood provides true value at $99.99. While OFM will no doubt have more desks hitting the market in the coming months, this will remain one of our staff favorites. The metal frame, support bars, and 43.25" wide top work together to create a contemporary desk we won't soon forget.