When it comes to office furniture, we often focus on desks, computers, and ergonomic chairs. However, there is another essential piece of equipment that has been around for quite some time and continues to play a crucial role in many professional environments: the Draughtsman chair.
In this blog, we’ll explore what a Draughtsman chair is, its importance, and why every professional—whether you're in architecture, engineering, design, or any other field that involves long hours of sitting at a raised desk—should seriously consider having one.
What is a Draughtsman Chair?
A Draughtsman chair, often called a drafting chair, is a specialized type of office chair designed primarily for individuals who need to work at higher surfaces like drafting tables, workbenches, or high desks. These chairs are built to provide maximum comfort and support while sitting at these elevated heights. Unlike regular office chairs, Draughtsman chairs are height-adjustable, and many come with a footrest and a swivel base for increased mobility.
The key feature that sets Draughtsman chairs apart is their ability to raise the seat high enough to comfortably sit at elevated surfaces. Whether you’re sketching plans, using a drafting table, or analyzing blueprints, these chairs are designed to give you the right posture and support.
Why Should Every Professional Have One?
1. Ergonomic Support for Long Hours of Sitting
Sitting for extended periods is hard on the body. In fact, research suggests that sitting for more than 6 hours a day increases your risk for heart disease and other health problems. However, many professionals like architects, engineers, designers, and artists need to spend hours at their desks or tables, often at a height that a regular chair just can’t accommodate.
A Draughtsman chair is specifically designed to offer ergonomic support for those long working hours. It helps maintain the spine's natural curve and encourages good posture, reducing the strain on your back and neck. With lumbar support, adjustable seat height, and footrests, it ensures that you are not hunched over or straining your muscles while working.
A study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that proper seating arrangements and ergonomic furniture can reduce musculoskeletal disorders by up to 50%. A Draughtsman chair can be a game-changer in this regard.
2. Perfect for Working at Elevated Desks and Drafting Tables
If you're working with large-scale drawings, architectural plans, or doing intricate design work, you likely need a desk or table that is higher than a standard desk. This is where a Draughtsman chair truly shines. Its ability to adjust to a variety of heights allows you to sit comfortably at elevated desks without straining your legs or back.
This is especially important for professionals in industries such as architecture, engineering, and design. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 300,000 architects and engineers in the United States work in fields that require long hours of desk work. These professionals often work with elevated drafting tables or project desks, making the Draughtsman chair a vital piece of equipment for daily tasks.
3. Increased Mobility and Flexibility
One of the standout features of Draughtsman chairs is their mobility. Most of these chairs come with a swivel base, allowing you to move around with ease. This can be extremely useful for professionals who need to transition between various workstations or need quick access to different parts of their workspace.
With a Draughtsman chair, you can smoothly rotate from one side of your desk to the other, access your filing cabinets, or interact with colleagues without getting up. This mobility boosts productivity and enhances workflow, making it easier to stay focused on your tasks.
4. Prevents Neck and Back Strain
Neck and back pain are two of the most common complaints among office workers. According to a survey by the American Chiropractic Association, around 31 million Americans experience back pain at any given time. Sitting in the wrong position for hours can exacerbate these issues, especially when working at a high desk that requires your body to be in an unnatural position.
The Draughtsman chair encourages a neutral spine position, which can significantly reduce the risk of back and neck problems. With the ability to adjust the height and support, you can keep your body aligned properly, ensuring maximum comfort while you work. The addition of adjustable armrests in some models also helps reduce pressure on the shoulders and wrists, preventing discomfort.
5. Ideal for a Variety of Professions
Although Draughtsman chairs are particularly popular among architects, designers, and engineers, their benefits extend to professionals across a wide range of industries. For example:
- Artists and Illustrators: Artists who need to work on large canvases or detailed projects at an elevated desk can benefit from a Draughtsman chair that offers support and flexibility.
- Laboratory Technicians: In labs, technicians often work at high counters or benches. A Draughtsman chair can help them stay comfortable and maintain the right posture.
- Call Center Employees: While many call center agents work at traditional desks, those who require adjustable seating to accommodate standing or elevated workstations will find Draughtsman chairs helpful.
The versatility of Draughtsman chairs makes them a good investment for a variety of professions, whether you’re sitting, standing, or transitioning between different types of work.
6. Boosts Productivity and Comfort
When you’re comfortable, you can focus better. Sitting in a well-designed chair that supports your posture and reduces fatigue can boost your productivity and efficiency. With a Draughtsman chair, you’re more likely to stay focused on your tasks for longer periods of time without getting distracted by discomfort or pain.
This increased comfort translates to better work outcomes, whether you’re designing, drafting, or analyzing data. After all, as a professional, your well-being is directly tied to the quality of your work, and the right chair can make all the difference.
How to Choose the Right Draughtsman Chair
When selecting a Draughtsman chair, here are some factors to consider:
- Height Adjustment: Look for a chair with a wide range of height adjustment to accommodate various desk or table heights.
- Lumbar Support: Make sure the chair provides proper lumbar support to protect your lower back.
- Seat Cushioning: The seat should be well-padded for comfort during long hours of sitting.
- Footrest: Ensure the chair comes with a footrest for additional support and comfort, especially when working at elevated desks.
- Material: Choose a chair made from breathable, durable materials that can withstand long periods of use.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an architect, designer, engineer, or artist, a Draughtsman chair can be an essential tool for your workspace. With its ability to provide ergonomic support, comfort, and flexibility, it helps you maintain good posture and stay productive throughout the day. It’s more than just a chair—it’s an investment in your health and well-being.
Don’t underestimate the importance of a good chair. After all, your work environment plays a significant role in your success, and a Draughtsman chair can make all the difference in how comfortably and efficiently you work. If you haven’t already, it’s time to consider adding a Draughtsman chair to your workspace. Your back, neck, and productivity will thank you for it!