Understanding Complete Workstation Components 

The three-piece foundation: 

Primary Desks 

The main work surface forms your workstation core.  

Available in sizes from compact 1200mm through expansive 1800mm widths, standard 600-800mm depths, and various configurations. This is where your computer, primary documents and immediate work tasks happen. 

Return Desks 

L-shaped extensions create additional workspace. 

Returns attach perpendicularly to primary desks, typically 900-1200mm wide, providing dedicated areas for meetings, paperwork, secondary monitors or equipment. Doubling functional surface area without doubling floor space. 

Pedestals 

Mobile or fixed storage units positioned under desks.  

Three-drawer configurations offering organised storage for supplies, files and personal items. This keeps essentials accessible whilst maintaining clear work surfaces. 

Real transformation: A Carlton accounting practice operated with standalone desks for years, wondering why staff constantly complained about insufficient space during tax season. After configuring proper workstations with returns and pedestals, productivity metrics improved 34%. The issue wasn’t work intensity but inadequate workspace. Staff finally had room to spread documents, position dual monitors properly and organise materials systematically. 

Why Integrated Workstation Systems Outperform Standalone Desks 

Expanded Work Surface 

Modern work involves multiple simultaneous activities. Computers, documents, notebooks, phones and reference materials. Single desks force constant shuffling and organisation struggles. Desks, returns and pedestals provide: 

• Dedicated zones for different work types 

• Proper dual-monitor positioning without cramped arrangements 

• Meeting capacity for quick desk-side consultations 

• Material organisation reducing desktop clutter 

Efficient Space Utilisation 

L-shaped configurations maximise corner spaces that are typically wasted. Returns transform awkward corners into valuable workspace, often adding 50-70% more surface area within the same office footprint as standalone desks. 

Systematic Storage Integration 

Pedestals keep frequently-used items immediately accessible: 

• Top drawers for stationery and small supplies 

• Middle drawers for documents and files 

• Deep bottom drawers accommodating hanging files or personal items 

Everything is organised and reachable without leaving your chair. Eliminating productivity-killing trips to distant filing cabinets. 

Workstation Configuration Options 

Standard L-Shape with Left or Right Returns 

Classic configurations adaptable to office layouts. 

Returns extend either left or right from primary desks, chosen based on door locations, window positions, power outlet placement and workflow preferences. Most staff prefer returns on their non-dominant side. Right-handed users often choose left returns, keeping writing space clear. 

Panel-Based Workstation Systems 

Modular designs using screens and panels.  

Semi-private workstations created through coordinating desk components, returns, pedestals and privacy screens. Popular in open-plan offices, balancing collaboration with focus. 

Executive Workstation Suites 

Comprehensive systems for leadership offices. 

Larger primary desks (1800mm+), substantial returns, credenzas for additional storage, and coordinating pedestals create impressive, highly functional executive environments. 

Material and Finish Considerations 

Quality workstation systems offer matching finishes across all components: 

Laminate options – Durable, affordable surfaces in contemporary colours (white, grey, natural timber tones, dark walnut) 

Veneer finishes – Premium timber appearances for executive environments 

Metal accents – Powder-coated or chrome legs/frames complementing modern aesthetics 

Edge treatments – PVC, ABS or timber edging protecting surfaces whilst contributing to overall appearance 

Coordinated finishes ensure desks, returns and pedestals appear intentionally designed together. Not mismatched pieces assembled randomly. 

Desk Dimensions and Space Planning 

Primary Desk Sizing 

1200mm width – Minimum for computer work; suits compact offices or hot-desking 

1500mm width – Comfortable single-user workstations with reasonable spreading room 

1800mm width – Generous workspace for intensive desk work, multiple monitors or senior roles 

Return Sizing 

900mm returns – Adds meaningful surface without excessive footprint 

1200mm returns – Substantial additional workspace for document-intensive roles 

Office Space Requirements 

Complete L-shaped workstations typically require: 

• Minimum 2.4m x 2.4m for a 1500mm desk with a 1200mm return 

• Adequate clearance behind chairs (minimum 1200mm for movement) 

• Consideration for door swings, filing cabinet access and foot traffic 

We provide complimentary space planning, ensuring workstations fit comfortably within your office layout. 

Pedestal Features Worth Having 

Quality indicators: 

• Full extension drawers open completely for rear access 

• Central locking secures all drawers with a single key 

• Smooth-glide runners operate quietly without sticking 

• Quality handles are positioned comfortably and built durably 

• Filing capacity in the bottom drawers accommodating foolscap hanging files 

Mobile vs fixed pedestals: 

Mobile – Castors allow repositioning; some users wheel them to meetings as portable storage 

Fixed – Permanent positioning creates stable surfaces for printers, plants or personal items 

Why Choose Premier Office Furniture for Desks, Returns and Pedestals 

Integrated design expertise: Our 20+ years serving businesses in Melbourne means we understand how workstation components work together functionally and aesthetically. We don’t just sell individual pieces. We design complete systems supporting how your team actually works. 

Space planning service: We provide complimentary office measurements and layout design, ensuring workstations fit properly. Plus, allow adequate movement and maximise your available space effectively. 

Quality coordination: We source matching components from trusted manufacturers. This guarantees finish consistency, compatible sizing and cohesive aesthetics across your workstation investment. 

Complete office solutions: While configuring workstations, we coordinate ergonomic chairs, storage solutions, cable management and accessories. This creates fully functional work environments, not just furniture collections. 

Installation included: Our professional team delivers, assembles and installs complete workstation systems. Clearly positioning everything properly and ensuring stability and function from day one. 

Build Productive Workspaces Today 

Stop settling for inadequate single desks, limiting your team’s effectiveness. Premier Office Furniture delivers complete workstation solutions, including desks, returns and pedestals. Create functional environments supporting professionals. 

Call (03) 9336 7500 for a FREE measure and quote
Visit www.premierofficefurniture.com.au to explore configurations
Visit our showroom – see complete workstation systems