As summer winds down and kids are checking off their back to school lists, it might also be time to check over your work space. Whether you’re working from home, or just paying bills at a corner desk, your work space needs to feel inviting and comfortable to inspire you to action. The two key ingredients are a desk and a chair, but the choices for each are endless. Four main questions should guide your decision-making:

Who will be using the desk? If you’re working solo, consider this question a pass. But if, like many homes, the desk is shared not just by spouses, but also by kids of all ages, it’s important to accept that this desk and space will be a high traffic area, so a durable, stain-resistant surface is a must.  An adjustable chair would also be a wise choice for this type of work space.

How long will I be sitting at the desk? If it’s a high traffic space, it’s likely you’re not using the desk and chair for long tretches, so comfort can be less of a priority. If however, you’re creating a home office of your very own, then do think comfort. This doesn’t mean you have to forgo style and choose a standard office chair, but it does mean that the furniture should fit your body with chair and table heights in proportion to your body. What you don’t want is stiff knees or dangling feet!

What kind of work will I be doing there? Modern homes often need desks just for a computer to surf the internet. In this case, a sleek desk or a beautiful antique can be used because clutter control is not as important. If your space is your home office, the desk serves as the central hub, so consider quality craftsmanship so stuck drawers don’t put you in a rut.

What kind of style or energy do I want the space to have? With answers to the questions above, you may find the choice between antique, traditional or modern is clear for your needs. The next question is how to infuse the space with personal touches and the right energy level. If long days at the desk are in order, be sure to create enough energy through color and upholstery to keep you uplifted and energized. If a space is too serene, and a chair too comfortable, you may find yourself at your desk all day with nothing to show for it!