Having once worked in the Contract Furniture industry, I would simply tell you to buy good quality items.
(link deleted) Do not buy used furniture that originally came from some office supply store. Stick to Haworth, Kimball, Steelcase or Herman Miller.
(link deleted) A bit more expensive but well worth the money for the wear they can take.
(link deleted) Though, I do think it is funny that you are asking about this when you have links to used furniture sites in your signature.
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