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Show HN: Handcrafted standing desks from reclaimed materials

woodwardsalvage.com

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Re: Show HN: Handcrafted standing desks from reclaimed materials

#11

Post by fitztrev »

epenn wrote: post #7

I like the idea of using salvaged materials, but the price seems way off the mark, even for something custom made.

I understand totally. Unfortunately steel and reclaimed lumber is not cheap. Each desk is made entirely by hand, so there’s a lot of labor that goes into each one.

There are others out there that do offer a more affordable solution. I even started out just modifying my existing desk to accommodate a standing position. But I wanted something that was much more durable and didn’t look like it necessarily came from Ikea.

Re: Show HN: Handcrafted standing desks from reclaimed materials

#12

Post by unwind »

vanelsas wrote: post #4
fitztrev wrote: post #2

OP here. I've been a developer for 10 years and have used a standing desk for the last 2. When I started, I just used whatever materials I could to prop my computer up higher. Once I was sold on the idea and benefits of standing, I started looking for a more permanent solution. I wasn't really happy with the options. I wanted something very high quality and unique. So I decided to start building my own using reclaime…

We've been using sit/stand desks at our office since the start now. At first I was the only one using them, but now every developer seems to be using it more and more. To me, the most important feature is to be able to alter the height of the desk as I want to sit or stand during the day. I find myself switching positions 2-3 times a day. Couldn't work without it anymore. Awesome product!

It doesn't have the "most important feature" that you mention, but you still find it awesome?

Re: Show HN: Handcrafted standing desks from reclaimed materials

#13

Post by the_cat_kittles »

vog wrote: post #6
fitztrev wrote: post #2

OP here. I've been a developer for 10 years and have used a standing desk for the last 2. When I started, I just used whatever materials I could to prop my computer up higher. Once I was sold on the idea and benefits of standing, I started looking for a more permanent solution. I wasn't really happy with the options. I wanted something very high quality and unique. So I decided to start building my own using reclaime…

> What's important to you in a standing desk? Being affordable. That is, having a price tag comparable with normal furniture. Who will pay $ 1495 for a desk?!

many people play 5000 for a live edge slab desk without a second thought

Re: Show HN: Handcrafted standing desks from reclaimed materials

#14

Post by wtvanhest »

fitztrev wrote: post #2

OP here. I've been a developer for 10 years and have used a standing desk for the last 2. When I started, I just used whatever materials I could to prop my computer up higher. Once I was sold on the idea and benefits of standing, I started looking for a more permanent solution. I wasn't really happy with the options. I wanted something very high quality and unique. So I decided to start building my own using reclaime…

I do not know much about the market for the low-end of high-end furniture, but that is definitely the market you are targeting.

This isn't a $4000 table, but it is priced above standing desks with hydraulics that allow you to sit and stand at the same desk. ~$1,200.

Lots of people will tell you that this is priced way, way, way too high and it is for functional stuff. The question is whether the quality of the craftsmanship and the design are worth a $1,000+ premium on the furniture.

One way to find out is to take it to high-end furniture stores and ask them. Another way is to market them on the web and see if you get sales.

Don't take advise from people on pricing who are practical buyers in their mid 20s. Talk to some women in their 30s about what would be nice to have in their house. Talk to some older men who value style as well as functionality.

The idea of a custom height standing desk with excellent style is likely appealing to some customers. The question is whether your's is stylish enough to justify the price.

Re: Show HN: Handcrafted standing desks from reclaimed materials

#15

Post by pmorici »

fitztrev wrote: post #11
epenn wrote: post #7

I like the idea of using salvaged materials, but the price seems way off the mark, even for something custom made.

I understand totally. Unfortunately steel and reclaimed lumber is not cheap. Each desk is made entirely by hand, so there’s a lot of labor that goes into each one. There are others out there that do offer a more affordable solution. I even started out just modifying my existing desk to accommodate a standing position. But I wanted something that was much more durable and didn’t look like it necessarily came from Ikea…

For comparison here are some similar desks built from reclaimed materials on Etsy. Typically under 1k. Granted most of them have hair pin legs instead of metal bar; what would you say justifies the 2-3x premium on this desk?

https://www.etsy.com/search?q=reclaimed%20wood%20desk&ship_t...

Re: Show HN: Handcrafted standing desks from reclaimed materials

#16

Post by sp332 »

fitztrev wrote: post #2

OP here. I've been a developer for 10 years and have used a standing desk for the last 2. When I started, I just used whatever materials I could to prop my computer up higher. Once I was sold on the idea and benefits of standing, I started looking for a more permanent solution. I wasn't really happy with the options. I wanted something very high quality and unique. So I decided to start building my own using reclaime…

These look really cool! Could you add a photo somewhere of what it looks like disassembled?

Re: Show HN: Handcrafted standing desks from reclaimed materials

#17

Post by gk1 »

I've paid some high prices for reclaimed wood furniture, and when I move to a larger place (in several months) I will likely do it again. Here's my feedback:

The first comparison I started making in my mind is with the counter tables from Restoration Hardware. They are nearly half the price ($635+), and in my opinion look more the "reclaimed" part. I also don't see the height dimension on your page, so I can't compare that. Another thing I'd like to see is previews of the other finishes and metal types. I like darker woods and metals, but I can't tell which metal finish the photo is showing.

With that said, the price does seem right to me, and comparable to what I've seen in some Etsy stores and local shops.

Edit: Also, it would be great to see shipping costs up front. I went all the way to the checkout page to find it, and I still don't see anything about shipping costs. That sucks. Either offer a flat shipping cost (like RH does), or add an estimator right on the product page (eg, "Enter your zip code to estimate shipping.")

Re: Show HN: Handcrafted standing desks from reclaimed materials

#18

Post by tmuir »

"Handcrafted" has become a red flag for me, in the same way "vintage" and "cozy" are for apartment listings. Almost anything that isnt produced on a large scale is handmade. Its an empty marketing phrase that tells me you have nothing better to showcase. There is no detail of this desk that makes you say "wow this was built by a master craftsman."

Re: Show HN: Handcrafted standing desks from reclaimed materials

#19

Post by fitztrev »

I appreciate the comments. As I said, I'm just getting started with this. I posted it here just to get some initial feedback.

I understand there are other options for standing desks that are both less expensive and more functional. The value proposition isn’t a "better" standing desk, or a "cheaper" standing desk, it is a standing desk that is built by hand from reclaimed, quality materials, sourced from the community.

It allows me to continue to support the deconstruction of abandoned homes and buildings in the Detroit area, which is one of my main focuses.

Re: Show HN: Handcrafted standing desks from reclaimed materials

#20

Post by reedlaw »

This looks nice, but I would be more excited by a startup offering affordable walking workstations. I've put together a couple of these with the cheapest one costing only $80. The price largely depends on the local availability of used treadmills. For the keyboard stand I used reclaimed wood pallets. For the monitor stand, a bookshelf.
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