Architectural Drafting Desk Buying Guide

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Architect working at a desk with plans and sketches in a dimly lit office setting.
Credit: pexels.com, Architect working at a desk with plans and sketches in a dimly lit office setting.

If you're in the market for a new architectural drafting desk, it's essential to consider the size of the workspace. A larger desk can accommodate multiple monitors, papers, and other drafting tools, making it ideal for projects that require a lot of organization.

A good drafting desk should have a sturdy and durable frame to support the weight of your equipment. Look for a desk with a solid wood or metal construction that can withstand heavy use.

When selecting a drafting desk, the height of the work surface is also crucial. A desk with an adjustable height feature can be beneficial for users who need to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day.

Choosing a Desk

Choosing a desk that fits your needs is crucial for architectural drafting. A good drafting table should be just the right size in terms of height, width, and depth, considering where you want to place it.

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The material of the table is also important. Most drafting tables can be made out of wood, but some are also made with a glass top for a luxurious or edgy appearance. It should be highly durable to withstand the test of time and many uses.

A solid surface is also a great feature to have, as it's easy to maintain and can withstand heavy use. The STUDIO DESIGNS Graphix II Workstation Table has a melamine table top that does not warp, making it a great option.

For your interest: Best Architectural Drawings

Best Wood Table

If you're looking for a wood desk that's both stylish and functional, consider a drafting table like the STUDIO DESIGNS 42in Vintage Drafting Table.

This table features a smooth work surface and an adjustable height, making it perfect for artists, designers, or anyone who needs a comfortable workspace.

Its solid hard wood frame is made from rustic oak wood, providing durability and a vintage design that's sure to impress.

Related reading: Architectural Wood Models

How We Picked

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A good drafting table should be just the right size in terms of height, width, and depth, depending on where you want to place it.

Consider the material of the table, which can be made of wood, glass, or other durable materials that can withstand the test of time and many uses.

A drafting table with multiple drawers or storage compartments can offer more storage room, but make sure there is enough leg room at the bottom for you to move freely.

The top size and dimensions of the drafting table should be in accordance with your paper size, as not all paper sizes are the same around the world.

A drafting table that is eco-friendly and Green Guard certified is a great option, as it is safe and free from harmful chemicals.

Adjustability is key when it comes to a drafting table, with features like a flexible top surface that can be locked in place, and height adjustment to fit any user height.

A dual top design can be useful for two tasks at the same time, such as a flat and angled surface.

Types of Desks

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There are several types of desks, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits.

The most common type of desk is the traditional rectangular desk, often used in offices and homes. It typically features a flat surface and a set of legs for stability.

A drafting desk, on the other hand, is designed specifically for architectural drafting and features a sloping surface to facilitate the creation of detailed drawings.

Safco Planmaster

Safco Planmaster Drafting Tables are a popular choice among customers, offering unmatched stability and precision. They are adjustable to suit your preferred height and angle, making them perfect for drafting.

These tables come with a parallel bar for easy and accurate drafting. With the ease of portability that allows you to work anywhere you want, these professional drafting tables combine with all your choices and are combined with all your preferences and needs.

Alfa Planhold Inc. is committed to providing high-quality drafting solutions that cater to your creative and professional needs. We provide the best drafting table that suits your projects and elevates your drafting experience.

Safco Planmaster Drafting Tables are favorites among our customers, offering unmatched stability and precision.

Glass Top Table

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The glass top table is a great option for those who want a smooth and durable work surface. It's perfect for drafting, drawing, and even crafting.

The Modern Design Avanta Glass Drafting Table is a great example of a glass top table, measuring 42 x 24 inches with an adjustable height of 28.75 to 48 inches. This allows for versatility in use and can accommodate a T-square without toppling over.

This table is also quite spacious, with a main work surface of 42 x 24 inches, making it ideal for complex projects and blueprints. The tempered safety glass with a blue top makes it easy to glide on when working on anything.

The glass top table is not just functional but also stylish, with a sleek silver tone finish and a vertical height adjustment for ease of use. It also features safety and style at the same time, making it a great addition to any workspace.

The glass top table is also a great option for those who need to work on a light table, as it can be used as one. It's also perfect for storing measuring tools and other art supplies, with many compartments for organization.

Sleek Black Table

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The Sleek Black Table is a great option for those who want a stylish and functional workspace. It measures 42 3/4 x 49 x 24 inches and is made for those who love stylish drawers in terms of design.

This drafting table comes with 3 drawers to store your important tools for drafting and arts. The drawers have a clothed interior finish to protect your art supplies and drafting items.

The top angle adjustment can go up to 30 degrees for flexibility, allowing you to work comfortably. The table also has a storage shelf under the desktop to keep your other items.

It is indeed very sturdy and has a design that keeps it from toppling over, making it quite stable. The bottom base has 6 floor levelers for a very balanced table.

The table also comes with a writing stool storage (pencil ledge) and a padded stool for your convenience. A large open shelf at the bottom of the working area is perfect for papers and other materials.

A unique perspective: Architectural Drawings Storage

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The drafting table has a white and black finish, giving it a contemporary style that complements various house décor and designs. It's also easy to clean with a faux leather stool.

The heavy gage steel construction of this drafting table offers great durability, making it a very worth-it table to have for your home or office. It's backed by a 10 years warranty.

Traditional vs Electronic

Traditional drafting tables have been a staple in engineering and architect offices for a long time, but they're not without their limitations.

They're extremely sturdy and stable, which is great for precision work, but they can be quite large and take up a lot of space.

Traditional drafting tables are also often associated with paper-based work, which can be cumbersome and time-consuming.

Electronic drafting tables, on the other hand, offer a lot of advantages, including being more ergonomic and allowing you to work for longer periods without discomfort.

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They also feature high-resolution touchscreen monitors, which are clear and easy to see, even for small details.

In addition, electronic drafting tables are often more user-friendly and can be customized to fit your specific needs.

They can also be more affordable than traditional drafting tables, especially when you consider the cost of printing and storing paper documents.

Electronic drafting tables come in a variety of models, including portable and desktop options, so you can choose the one that best fits your workspace and needs.

Do Architects Still Use Boards?

Architects still use drafting boards, despite the rise of computer-aided design.

These boards are useful for making and modifying drawings on paper with pencil or ink. Various drawing instruments such as protractors and set squares are used to draw parallel, oblique, or perpendicular lines.

Many experienced architects and structural designers prefer pencil and paper graphics produced on a drafting board. This is because traditional drawings drafted by hand can take several years to match the capabilities of computer-aided designs.

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Drafting boards provide a tidy platform for freehand sketching and are designed to ensure comfort while working at different angles with little or no strain. They are much more suitable than conventional working surfaces.

Most people would argue that hand drawing is becoming unnecessary, but many architects still value the process of drawing on paper and on a drafting board before refining the drawing using CAD software.

By Brand

Drafting tables are a type of desk that can be incredibly versatile, often featuring adjustable surfaces that can tilt for drawing, creating plans, or making art.

Some drafting tables can also lay flat for crafting, writing, or computer work, making them a great option for people with multiple interests.

These multi-purpose desks may come with added storage, a pencil ledge, and/or a sliding keyboard shelf, which can be a big plus for those who value organization.

Student and classroom drafting tables are built to last, emphasizing function over fancy features – they're designed to withstand years of use.

Architectural drafting tables, on the other hand, are often made from sturdy materials like wood, steel, and melamine, giving them a solid and dependable feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an architect's desk called?

An architect's desk is commonly known as a drawing board or drafting table. It's a versatile workspace for drawing, writing, and reading large-format documents.

Are drafting desks worth it?

Yes, drafting desks are a worthwhile investment for those who need a dedicated and versatile workspace, offering ergonomic benefits and durability. They provide a practical solution for artists, designers, and professionals who require a comfortable and long-lasting workspace.

Do architects still use drafting tables?

Yes, architects still use drafting tables, which provide a stable and ergonomic workspace for creating detailed designs and blueprints. Many architects appreciate the tactile experience and precision offered by traditional drafting tables.

Lou Tarchiani

Senior Writer

Lou Tarchiani is a passionate writer, avid traveler, and animal lover. She has a diverse background, having worked in fields ranging from marketing to education. Her travels have taken her to over 20 countries, where she has immersed herself in local cultures and gained unique perspectives on the world.

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