Squeezing a fully functional office into a small space can be a real challenge. One of the trickiest parts is finding an office chair that offers comfort and flexibility without dominating the limited real estate. Thankfully, there are chairs made specifically for modestly sized offices and workspaces that provide ergonomic support in a compact footprint.
This article explores some of the best compact yet comfortable office chairs ideal for small home offices, dorm rooms, or other snug work areas in the UK. Based on in-depth research of user reviews and chair specifications, we’ve selected chairs that provide adjustable features and a comfortable seat in a petite package.
Within the article, you’ll find detailed reviews of our top picks for office chairs tailored to small spaces. We looked at key criteria like overall dimensions, seat size and comfort, adjustable options, ease of assembly, and affordability. Our goal was to identify chairs that maximize your minimal workspace while providing customizable support so you can work in comfort.
Finding the right office chair from the myriad options available can be challenging. This article guides you through some of the leading contenders for small spaces so you can create an ergonomic yet space-saving workspace. Keep reading for our hand-picked recommendations specially chosen for their compact footprints and smart ergonomic designs – the best office chairs for small spaces available in the UK today.
List of the Best Office chair for small space in the UK
Blisswood Ergonomic Office Chair Desk Chair For Home Office, Adjustable Mesh Chair, Swivel Computer Chair With 90° Flip-up Armrest & Lumbar Support, 360° Rotation Work Chair
£49.99
Yaheetech Office Desk Chair Adjustable Computer Chair Armless Swivel Chair with Rolling Wheels and Lumbar Support for Home Office Study and Work, Green
Tervo Model S | Folding Office Chair for Small Spaces | Gaming Chair for Adults & Kids | Ergonomic Mesh Computer Chair for Bedroom | Desk Chair for Home Work | (Triple Black)
£129.99
T-THREE. Adjustable Office Chair Ergonomic Mesh Swivel Chair Office Chair Desk Chair Lumbar Support Height Adjustable 360°Swivel Rocking Function Mesh Back Seat for Home Office(Black)
Office chair for Home,Swivel Desk Chair for Bedroom Adjustable Height Mesh Chair Home Office Chair no Arms Computer Desk Chair for Kids/Adults,Removable Padded Seat,Home/Office Furniture (Gray)
£37.99
Panana Office Chair Flip-up Armrest Managerial Desk Chair Mesh Back Gas Lift Swivel Chair (Blue)
ModernLuxe Office Chair Desk Chair Home Ergonomic Computer Task Swivel Chair Home Office (Black Faux Leather)
Yaheetech Velvet Office Chair Swivel Desk Chair Tub Velvet Ergonomic Computer Chair Height Adjustable Chair with Armrest for Home Office Reception Gray
£65.99
costoffs Computer Chair Ergonomic Study Chair without arms Small Office Mesh Chair for Home Study or Work with PP Back Support and Wheels Turquoise
Charles Jacobs Office Swivel Computer Desk Chair with a Height Adjustable Chrome base and Wheels - Grey Fabric
£39.99
Things to consider while selecting an Office chair for small space in the UK
Selecting the right office chair for your small space in the UK can be a challenge. With limited room, you need a chair that offers comfort and functionality without dominating the area. Here are some key considerations when choosing an office chair for a small space:
Size Matters
When space is tight, chair size and dimensions are critical factors. Look for compact office chairs with a small overall footprint. The seat width, armrest width, and backrest height should all be modest. Chairs around 20-22 inches wide are usually suitable for small spaces. The seat depth should allow you to sit back comfortably without extending too far from the edge. Adjustable chairs allow customizing the dimensions to your body. Also consider the amount of floor space the chair legs occupy. 5-point bases take up less room than wider wheeled bases.
Armrest Style
Armrests enhance comfort but also consume space. Fixed T-shaped armrests keep things compact side-to-side while still providing a place to rest your arms. Chairs without armrests maximize space, but this may sacrifice comfort. For a minimalist option, choose chairs with slim, non-obtrusive armrests. Well-padded adjustable armrests offer comfort at the expense of roominess. Consider your workspace activities and preferences to determine if armrests are essential or dispensable.
Base Style
The base dimensions and floor footprint should suit your room. A standard 5-point nylon base with small casters is compact yet stable. Splayed leg bases have a similar compact footprint. Wheels enable mobility, but casters add several inches to the chair’s footprint. Casters over two inches may be excessive for small spaces. For a smaller profile, choose slim wheels or consider leg glides instead of casters. If you forgo casters, ensure the base has protective caps to avoid scuffing floors when moving the chair.
Seat Style
Some seat types save space compared to conventional cushioned seats. Saddle seats are narrow in the middle to reduce width. Perching stools have small round or square seats with no backrest. Look for these space-saving seats only if you plan to sit for short durations. Mesh seats with flexible fronts also minimize overall size. Evaluate seat types to find one suitable for your sitting requirements versus the tight quarters.
Backrest Style
The backrest shape, size and adjustability affect the chair’s spatial footprint. Low-back chairs ending below the shoulder blades consume minimal space. Mid-back and high-back chairs provide more support but also occupy more area. To optimize roominess, look for backs with thin, contoured profiles that conform to your spine. Flexible backs that can be reclined and moved closer to walls help minimize the amount of space used. Removable backs allow customization as well.
Swivel Ability
Chairs that swivel add freedom of movement in tight spaces where there’s no room to stand up. However, swiveling takes up slightly more space than a stationary chair. Chairs permanently fixed in one forward-facing position save the most room. So consider your needs to swivel versus the space constraints. Locking the swivel mechanism is also an option on some chairs. This allows swiveling when needed but also keeping the chair parked forward.
Seat Shape
Departing from a standard rectangular seat shape allows some space-saving options. Round or contoured seats take up marginally less space. Saddle seats are significantly narrower through the midpoint but may not suit all users. Another option is a seat with a forward-sloping waterfall front. This provides more leg room while minimizing seat depth. Evaluate different seat shapes to find one matching your space limitations.
Compact Footprint
The amount of floor space consumed by the chair’s base and legs/casters affects roominess. Chairs with splayed legs or slim sled bases take up minimal floor area. Hooded casters also reduce the chair’s footprint versus protruding casters. Just be sure compact bases still provide adequate stability. Removing parts like armrests and lumbar supports can further reduce the chair’s spatial encroachment.
Folding/Stacking
Folding chairs collapse to a slim vertical profile for storage against a wall or stacking. Look for folding office chairs with comfortable padding and back support for small spaces needing a temporary extra seat. These convenient chairs take up minimal space when not in use. Just be aware that folding mechanisms may raise the seated height compared to a traditional fixed chair.
All-in-One
For singular spaces serving multiple functions, an all-in-one chair could be ideal. These chairs have work surfaces, shelves or other built-in amenities for activities beyond sitting. All-in-one chairs take up slightly more space but maximize utility in studios and tiny offices. Just ensure the integrated features align with how you intend to use the chair.
Multi-Functional
Chairs with secondary functions optimize the use of space. Look for office chairs that also recline for reading, nap pods that serve as chairs, and chairs with hidden storage space. Versatile stools that convert from sitting to standing positions are also beneficial picks. Just be sure comfort isn’t compromised when using the chair in its various positions or modes.
Colour/Style
While color and style preferences are personal, they can also influence spatial perception. Darker colors and patterns tend to recede visually so the chair blends into the background. Bright hues make the chair more prominent. Transparent acrylic or mesh chairs have an airier, less obtrusive appearance. Minimalist Scandinavian styles keep things light. Consider colors and designs harmonizing with your decor rather than clashing.
Vertical Space Use
Using vertical space opens up floor area. Suspended chairs mounted to the ceiling or wall occupy otherwise unused air space. Hanging bubble chairs float above the floor surface. Just ensure adequate ceiling height and weight capacities before mounting chairs vertically. These unique styles work in the right settings but may not suit more conventional offices.
Proximity to Desks
The amount of space needed for the chair depends partly on its proximity to other furnishings. Chairs positioned right against desks or worksurfaces require less surrounding space. Allow ample clearance from walls and other objects if you need to roll the chair far back from the desk. Measure the total footprint required for the chair’s movement envelope based on your workspace setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What key features should I look for when buying an office chair for a compact workspace?
A: When you don’t have much room, seek out chairs with a small overall footprint that can slide neatly under your desk. Focus on the dimensions – seat width, arm width, overall size – and measure your space to ensure a good fit. Though compact, the chair should still offer adjustability, comfort and ergonomic support. Lightweight models that are easy to move around tight areas are also ideal.
Q: Are particular styles or adjustable options better suited to tight squeezes?
A: Chairs with sled bases take up less space than bulky 4-leg designs. Curved, open backs are less visually heavy than wide padded ones too. Consider foldable or removable arms, a seat that won’t bump into obstacles, and wheels that roll smoothly on hard floors for maneuverability. Reclining mechanisms and thick cushions tend to occupy precious room, so may be best avoided. Height adjustability remains useful for multi-user spaces.
Q: How can I pick the right chair for a small corner desk or workstation?
A: Corner nooks warrant triangular chairs that fit snugly into the shape. Seek out versions with casters and minimal arm protrusion to get close to the workspace. Compact options that slide completely under standing desks or small worktables maximize room. Active sitting stools take up minimal floor space as long as the height is right for your setup.
Q: Are folding or nesting chairs smart for tight quarters?
A: Absolutely – folding models stow neatly against walls or in closets. Look for sturdy constructions with decent padding for comfort through the workday. Test folding mechanisms for solid feel. Stackable stools and chairs on rolling stands offer similar space-saving benefits. Just confirm the sitting height works for your tasks before buying.
Q: What are some budget picks for small space seating?
A: You can find basic rolling chairs with mesh or plastic backs for under £100. Height-adjustable stools are another wallet-friendly choice. Expect to spend £150-250 if you want enhanced ergonomics and adjustments. Watch for deals on premium compact brands via sales, open box items or used office finds.
Conclusion
The search for the perfect office chair for a compact workspace in the UK needs mindful consideration of your particular requirements, budget, and the dimensions of your office area. The Charles Jacobs Office Swivel Computer Desk Chair presents an ergonomically designed choice at a reasonable price point for most budgets. For those desiring more flexibility, the Blisswood Ergonomic Office Chair provides customizable components like adjustable armrests, seat depth, lumbar support, and reclining capacity. However, its high price tag may deter some buyers. The unique, active Blisswood Ergonomic Office Chair can fit into tight corners, though its unusual shape has a learning curve and may not accommodate all users. Regardless of which chair you select, look for appropriate proportions, adjustable features to enable comfort and support, durable construction with quality materials to withstand repeated use, and casters appropriate for hard or soft flooring. Carefully measuring your space and reading reviews will help identify the ideal office chair for your compact home office or workspace that encourages proper posture and comfort throughout the workday.
Best office chair with adjustable lumbar support in the UK
