8.14.10.1 Conventional Furniture
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multiple seating |
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lounge seating |
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side chair |
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desk / conference chair |
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While free standing furniture can be authorized for use in many types
of private offices, it is mandatory for use in private staff offices
located in brigade and division executive command areas. Conventional furniture is the arrangement of freestanding furniture including, but not limited to: free standing conventional administration furniture, dormitory furniture, lobby furniture, and dining furniture.
When making selections, designers must consider product performance and longevity of appeal, as well as initial costs. As the appeal of finish materials degrades, users want to replace them; therefore, products that keep their appearance and shape longer are better choices even when initial costs are higher.
Use durable designs and finishes that will pass the "test of time." Designers must be concerned with material durability and wearability while considering budget restrictions. Selections of quality materials and products must also be appropriate to the function and level of use of each facility.
Some general examples for selecting furniture are:
The use of easily maintained finishes is critical. While certain finishes may provide excellent durability, designers must give serious consideration to maintaining the appeal of materials. It is critical that designers be familiar with finishes that wear well and are low maintenance.
A very important feature to consider when purchasing any furniture item is the warranty. Research how each manufacturer deals with their warranties and response time, and use the warranties if problems arise. Avoid altering furniture without the manufacturer's guidance or assistance to prevent voiding warranties.
8.14.10.1.1 Free Standing Office Furniture
Freestanding office furniture is allowed in executive/commander suites. In some instances freestanding furniture is acceptable if the existing space does not allow for panel-mounted systems or if the panel--mounted systems provide too much space for the task requiring furniture.
Hard woods can be used for freestanding office furniture in commander/executive suites where appropriate. Metal casegoods with laminate work surfaces should meet the standards and construction of systems furniture, yet they are floor supported (free standing).
8.14.10.1.2 Desks
Desktops should be equipped with two grommets (two inches minimum in diameter) to allow for electrical cords. Location of grommets will vary depending on the application. Work surface tops with rolled/soft edges are preferred to a straight edge for comfort. Drawers must use full extension, stop action progressive slides with precision ball bearing, and no metal to metal connection for smooth, quiet operation. Dovetail construction should be used on all corners. All drawers should be able to receive dividers and accommodate other filing options needed. Drawers should also be lockable and keyed alike, within each workstation, with removable cylinders for re-keying.
8.14.10.1.3 chairs
The awareness of ergonomics is important when choosing task chairs. Five prong base chairs with casters are suggested to provide excellent stability and mobility. Casters should be composed of dual hard wheels for use on carpet, and single soft wheels for use on hard flooring surfaces. Chair arms should be replaceable or removable in the field. Molded plastic arms, used for most applications, are easier to maintain; upholstered arms tend to soil easily with high use. Adjustable arms are required for intensive use by computer operators. Chair frames should be finished in chrome or a powder coated epoxy. Wood based chairs are more expensive and may be chosen for executive use.
8.14.10.1.4 tables
Consider the size of tables for each application. A good rule of thumb for dining tables and conference tables is to allow 24" to 30" of edge space per person. When selecting end tables, always consider the height of adjacent objects so that they are complemented by end tables.
Several small tables may be used to form one large table of various table formations for flexibility. High quality folding tables may be used in dining rooms to allow changes in table layout. When table legs are desired (in place of table bases), it is important to make sure legs do not interfere with users.
Table manufacturers are meeting the needs of providing more "functional" tables. For example, there are several styles of tables that can be purchased with casters for mobility. Tables that fold, dismantle, or can be raised or lowered are popular when flexibility is essential. As telecommunication and data communication technology advances, tables are introduced with new options for power and communications cabling.
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