Why Are Standing Desks So Ugly?

Ever wondered why standing desks are usually so ugly? There are plenty of ways to tap into the  benefits of standing desks while still maintaining your sense of style. In this article, I will go over:

  • Why standing desks are considered ugly.
  • The benefits of standing desks that stem from this design.
  • How you can decorate a standing desk for better cohesion.
  • Some less-ugly alternatives to standing desks.
Why Are Standing Desks So Ugly

Let’s get started!

What Makes Standing Desks So Ugly?

Standing desks are considered ugly because of their size, but their typical size and shape are essential to provide such a wide variety of health benefits to users.

One of the main complaints about standing desks is that they are not the most attractive piece of furniture, and they can easily throw off the vibe in your office. We are usually familiar with workplace furniture that is sleek, modern, and minimalistic.

Most standing desks send off a utilitarian vibe. They are much taller, and sometimes, wider than any other piece of furniture in your office.

This size allows you to stand while you work, and some models even allow you to adjust the height as needed.

This stands out in a typical office space, and the empty area underneath a standing desk can make it seem like something is missing.

The height can limit how you decorate, both on the desk and around the office.

What it comes down to is a personal preference. Standing desks are generally considered ugly because of their massive size, but the aesthetic appeal of the desk is a matter of opinion.

In most cases, you can find a way to decorate the space to allow this extremely beneficial desk to fit in, and you gather the best of both style and function.

Read More >> Top 5 Best Standing Desks With Side Table (2021 Review)

What are the Benefits of Standing Desks?

The size and shape of a standing desk allow you to get work done while staying upright, drastically reducing the amount of time you spend sitting.

By spending more time on your feet you are constantly moving, even if just slightly, and this can lead to benefits such as:

  • A lowered risk of heart disease
  • Lower risk of weight gain and obesity
  • Reduced back pain
  • Improved mood and energy
  • A longer lifespan

Studies going back decades have shown that standing while you work can drastically reduce your risk of death related to heart disease, cutting it nearly in half.

1. A lowered risk of heart disease

Staying still for extended periods (even half a workday) increases your risk of heart disease by up to 147 percent.

2. Lower risk of weight gain and obesity

The extended periods of standing time are also great at combating issues like obesity or metabolic diseases. By standing while you work you can burn an extra 170 calories in a traditional workday.

3. Reduced back pain

If you are someone who suffers from back pain then you should know that standing desks are also known to reduce back pain. This is one of the main complaints of those that sit all day, and studies have shown these types of desks improve pain levels after several weeks of use. 

Read More >> Best Balance Boards for Standing Desks (2021 Review)

4. Improved mood and energy

The extra time spent standing is also great for boosting your mood and even energy levels. Those with standing desks reported less stress and fatigue than those that sit the entire workday. When you feel great and have extra energy it can feed into other benefits, like working out or spending quality time with friends or family.

5. A longer lifespan:

All of these benefits feed into the potential for a longer, healthier life. This is largely due to statistics relating to health reduced lifespans, such as those of individuals with type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular conditions.

The great thing is that all of these benefits are accessible just by switching to a standing desk, despite its eyesore appeal. 

Even swapping out half of your sedentary time can improve your health, and there is no evidence suggesting any loss of productivity related to using a standing desk. This can even lead to an increase in productivity.

For a more in-depth analysis of the benefits of standing desks, check out this video:

How Can You Make a Standing Desk Look Better?

Instead of foregoing a standing desk for the sake of aesthetics, learning how to decorate around it can improve the look and feel of your office.

Because the size is already throwing off the look of the office space, keeping things in the same scheme is essential for inviting a standing desk in.

When you can, try to choose a standing desk with an adjustable height that fits your décor or the scheme of the room.

This is not always an option, so keep in mind that you can dress up the piece using a fresh coat of paint.

Try to keep any furniture around it a standard size, or even opt for taller pieces to match. Furniture that is low to the ground will make it appear more unbalanced.

Consider adding small plants either to the desk or hanging near it. Greenery is great at brightening up a space, and you have the added benefit of cleaner air. 

Make sure you are not adding too much clutter to the desktop; standing desks are not as wide, and even a few pieces of trash can make it look a mess.

Read More >> Top 5 Best Standing Desk Accessories? (2021 Review)

Why Are Standing Desk So Ugly

What Are Some Alternatives to Standing Desks with Similar Benefits?

If you are looking for the same benefits of a standing desk with a design that better fits your space then you should look at something like a desk converter or a desk riser.

The issue here is that you need your desktop to stay clean to accommodate an additional piece, and you may still find the look to be too utilitarian.

Desk converters or risers can be stored when they are not in use, but they will still provide a workspace that keeps you active.

Final Thoughts on Standing Desks and Aesthetics

Standing desks are not the most attractive piece of furniture that you can put in your office, but they are sizable for a reason. The benefits of a standing desk far outweigh any stylistic risks, and you can easily decorate the space to fit your mood and personal tastes.

Finding any piece of furniture that improves your life is hard, but decorating can be easy. Choosing function over style just this once may not be such a bad thing.

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Darryl Higgins

Hi, I'm Darryl. I made this site to help share information & reviews about ergonomic desks, chairs & accessories to help others who want to work more comfortably. Learn more about my journey by reading my bio here. Enjoy!
Picture of Darryl Higgins

Darryl Higgins

Hi, I'm Darryl. I made this site to help share information & reviews about ergonomic desks, chairs & accessories to help others who want to work more comfortably. Learn more about my journey by reading my bio here. Enjoy!

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