Understanding Reach Zones
Primary Reach Zone
The area directly in front of you, within arm's reach without leaning or stretching. This zone should contain your most frequently used tools and materials.
Items accessed multiple times per session belong here. For a painter, this might include brushes, palette, and primary paint colors. For a musician, it's instruments, cables, and recording equipment.
Secondary Reach Zone
Items used occasionally can be placed slightly further away, requiring a small lean or reach. This maintains workspace efficiency while keeping less common tools accessible.
The Three Core Elements
Storage Placement
Storage should form one point of the triangle, positioned so frequently accessed items require minimal movement. Vertical storage maximizes space while keeping items within comfortable reach height.
Work Surface
The central work area should be at appropriate height for your primary activity. Seated work requires different surface height than standing activities. The work surface is the triangle's center point.
Light Source
Lighting should illuminate the work surface without creating shadows or glare. Task lighting positioned above or to the side completes the triangle, ensuring visibility without eye strain.
Practical Application
Measuring Your Reach
Sit or stand in your typical working position. Extend your arm comfortably without leaning. This defines your primary reach zone radius.
Measure from your body center to your fingertips. Most people have a primary reach zone of approximately 24-30 inches when seated.
Zone Mapping
Map your tools by usage frequency. Items used every few minutes belong in the primary zone. Weekly-use items can occupy secondary positions.
Optimize Your Reach Zone
Learn how to apply these principles to your specific workspace during a consultation.
Schedule Assessment