The Executive Suite: Traditional or Modern?
Posted: 09.10.09
By Kimball Office Social Media Team

It’s easy to assume that most of the interior-design-creative-type folks work in interior design or architecture firms. But it’s just not true. To prove the point, I chatted with two of our own employees, Shelly Lehner, Specification Support Team Leader and Lori Fuselier, Product Specifier. Don’t let those complicated-sounding titles fool you. These two can sketch up a storm. And while they have their fingers on the pulse of what’s new and hip, they had some interesting insights about what execs today often choose to outfit their office spaces.

Shelly Lehner, Specification Support Team Leader

KO: I’ll admit, when I think of the executive suite, I think big, heavy, authoritative mahogany furniture and sumptuous leather. Is that still how it is?

SL: It’s not that traditional, but I still see most execs choosing wood desks, usually with a bridge [an extended desk surface], back work surface and overhead storage. I don’t think mahogany though – it’s more often mocha-colored today.

LF: I agree. Chocolate-colored wood is trendier than reddish or cherry wood today. I sometimes see a color in the middle of the two though – kind of a medium cherry. I never really see any lighter woods though, so I guess there is something to be said for that mental picture.

KO: It seems like most offices use newer materials today. Is wood still the material of choice for execs?

SL: Even when I see metal or other materials in open plan offices, most clients still use wood in the executive suites. Some use platinum storage or platinum legs, but they still use wood, and they still have a lot of storage.

Lori Fuselier, Product Specifier

KO: Even in the digital age? Aren’t most offices cutting down on physical storage space?

LF: We do think things are progressing and becoming technology-driven, but what really matters is the individual. Some go paperless, some prefer not to.

SL: For example, I still see a lot of keyboard arms, even though most people use laptops. Everyone has a personal preference. We don’t spec a lot of monitor arms either.

KO: How much do the chief executive offices differ from other executive-level offices? Read more…