I own and operate a drafting and design firm. That means that I spend a LOT of time at my computer. I have been using a leather "executive" chair for the past few years and due to prior space limitations, my desk is a computer armoire. Needless to say, that is NOT an ideal setup. I have recently moved to a MUCH larger house and I now have an office that, while small, is at least a dedicated office instead of an office/guest room.

This week I have upgraded to AutoCAD 2010 (the jump from AutoCAD 2004 to AutoCAD 2010 will take some time) and a high speed low drag desktop replacement with a 32" 1080p LCD TV as a third monitor (counting the laptop's monitor). I have decided to custom build a desk to my dimensions (pretty much means short and WIDE...LOL) to maximize my productivity. I have also realized that I need a true ergonomic chair if I am going to be at my desk for 12+ hours a day. So, those with personal experience (and even better, professional experience) chime in with recommendations for said chair. I really don't have a budget per se, but I would like it to be under $1000.

Also, any advise toward the desk design is appreciated as well.

Visit an independent Office Supply store, not one of the Chains. One that will bid on on large jobs for desks, cubical walls, etc. They have access to dozens of very ergonomic chairs, and can make excellent recommendations. Be sure to look at one with arms that adjust up and down, and the arm rest that flips in or out. Since body shape makes a difference, there are many models. Height adjustment, back tension, as well as lumbar support are all important. The last one I had cost $600, (but we bought a couple hundred that year form that dealer). It was worth every penny.

__________________
H Richard
SWCA1967 SWHF244

Herman Miller Aeron, I have been using one for 8 years, it’s adjustable in so many ways that you can’t miss. It’s easy to change adjustment as the day progresses.
The third generation of Herman Miller Chairs I have used. I use a HM typists chair for reloading.
For really long sessions I have my old HM exec chair which I switch to after a few hours for a change.

__________________
Ipsis Rebus Dictantitbus

Many of the larger office furniture supply outfits have, or can contact an ergonomics specialist. They can make arrangements to come to your work site and do a brief evaluation (less than an hour). They can make some suggestions to alter your work space, as well as steer you toward new furniture that would meet your needs, and budget. Most of the time, even if you don't buy from them, there is no charge for their service. It will be time well spent.

Best of luck,

Dave

Outstanding advice. One of the bigger ones in the area in New Orleans is Ives (if they're still in business) or Wynn . Morgan City may be just as close and the group I use will let you try out a chair for a few days. I was upstairs in the Courthouse one day and there were about 4 -5 chairs that had been brought up for the Judges to pick for a bench chair. I sat in them and fell in love with one-stuck a bisiness card on it and it was in my office the next day-screw the Judges, they shoulda made their decision quicker. Best chair I ever sat in and it only cost $400. Expensive does not necesarily mean the best. (the group in Morgan City is L&H-ask for Stan-tell him Gary LeGros sent you)

__________________
Forum consigliere