Designing a home that feels comfortable is not only about style, but also about ergonomics — adapting spaces and furniture to human proportions, habits, and needs. By following recommended dimensions and principles, interiors become more functional, healthier, and pleasant to live in.
Why Ergonomics Matters
Ergonomics ensures that everyday activities can be carried out safely and comfortably. Standard dimensions are not strict rules, but guidelines that help achieve harmony. They are especially important when:
- arranging circulation space between furniture,
- ensuring safe movement,
- choosing furniture heights and depths suited to the human body,
- placing appliances and fixtures for easy reach.
Well-planned ergonomics reduces strain, improves posture, increases safety, and ultimately supports a healthier lifestyle.
General Recommendations
- Adapt furniture to the scale of the room: smaller spaces benefit from compact solutions, larger rooms from more generous dimensions.
- Use standard dimensions as a guide, but adjust for children, seniors, or people with mobility needs.
- Maintain visual balance: proportions should look harmonious, not just measure correctly.
- Always prioritize ease of movement — clear pathways are as important as furniture comfort.
Tables and Desks
Tables are central to daily life. Their height and size directly affect usability.
- Coffee tables: 38–43 cm high, 90–137 cm long.
- Console tables: 76–81 cm high.
- Dining tables: 73–76 cm high, 90–107 cm wide.
- Round tables: 120 cm diameter for four people.
- Desks: 70–75 cm high.
Dining dimensions per person:
- Rectangular tables: 60 cm width per person.
- Round tables: 75 cm diameter per person.
Beds and Mattresses
Proper bed dimensions support healthy sleep.
- Bed height (with mattress): 40–60 cm.
- Sitting height on the edge: 43–45 cm.
- Mattress thickness: 20–25 cm.
Sizes:
- Single: 80–90 × 190–200 cm.
- Double/queen: 140–160 × 190–200 cm.
- King: 180 × 200 cm or larger.
Seating: Chairs and Sofas
Seating must support posture while offering comfort.
- Chair seat height: 43–45 cm.
- Depth: 42–47 cm.
- Backrest: 80–95 cm from the floor.
- Armrests: 20–25 cm above seat.
- Recliners: back angle 100–110°.
Sofa guidelines:
- Seat height: 40–45 cm.
- Depth: 50–60 cm.
- Armrests: 15–20 cm wide.
Storage and Shelving
- Comfortable reach zone: 60–170 cm from the floor.
- Tall cabinets: up to 213 cm.
- Shelf depth: 30–60 cm.
- Wardrobe depth: minimum 60 cm for hanging clothes.
- Bedside tables: 40–65 cm high.
Distances in Rooms
- Sofa to coffee table: 45 cm.
- Dining table to wall: 90 cm minimum.
- Around a bed: 60–70 cm.
- Workspace (desk + chair): 120 cm depth.
These clearances prevent cramped circulation and ensure usability.
Kitchen Ergonomics
The kitchen requires precision because it is used intensively every day.
- Worktop height: 85–95 cm.
- Upper cabinets: lowest shelf at 135–145 cm.
- Sink height: ~90 cm.
- Hob height: ~85 cm.
- Counter-to-island clearance: 120 cm.
- Work triangle (sink, stove, fridge): total distance 360–720 cm.
Bathroom Ergonomics
Bathrooms need careful planning to maximize comfort in limited space.
- Washbasin: 85–95 cm high.
- Toilet seat: 40–45 cm.
- Shower: minimum 90 × 90 cm.
- Bathtub depth: 45–50 cm.
- Mirror: bottom edge 100–110 cm above floor.
Storage should be within reach but placed safely away from water.
Modern Adaptations and Innovations
- Adjustable furniture: height-adjustable desks, modular sofas, or extendable dining tables adapt to different users and activities.
- Smart ergonomics: motion-sensor lighting, automated standing desks, and touchless faucets reduce strain and improve usability.
- Sustainable solutions: eco-friendly furniture materials (FSC-certified wood, recycled fabrics) combine ergonomics with responsible design.
- Universal design: barrier-free layouts and ergonomic fixtures benefit not only elderly or disabled users but make life easier for everyone.