small desk design ideas

Small Desk Design Ideas

By Brian Moore
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In the age of remote work and tiny apartments, a small desk can be your best friend and your biggest challenge. It's got to be compact, yet functional, elegant, yet sturdy. But don't let its size intimidate you. With smart design and clever organization, you can transform a small desk into a productive workspace oasis. Let's explore some small desk design ideas that will make you love, not dread, your tiny workspace.

First, consider the layout. A small desk is often pushed against a wall, but consider moving it into a corner or away from the wall if space allows. This can create the illusion of a larger workspace and allow you to utilize both sides of the desk. Next, think about height. A tall, skinny desk can fit into small spaces and provide more workspace than a short, wide one.

Space-Saving Design Elements

A small desk needs to maximize every inch of space. Let's look at some ways to do just that.

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Vertical Storage

Think upwards! Wall-mounted shelves, floating desks, and monitor arms that suspend your screens from the wall are game-changers in tiny spaces. They free up precious desktop real estate and make your room feel bigger.

Don't overlook the potential of the back of your desk, either. A corkboard or magnetic strip here can hold notes, reminders, and even lightweight office supplies. It's out of the way but still accessible.

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Hidden Storage

Cabinets, drawers, and even tempered glass desks with hidden compartments under the surface can hide away clutter and keep your workspace clean. Consider a desk with a lift-up lid to hide your keyboard and mouse, or one with built-in cubbies to store books, files, and supplies.

Modular units can also provide a surprising amount of storage. A set of shelves plus a desk surface can offer both open and closed storage, perfect for organizing both books and stationery.

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Multipurpose and Modular Furniture

In a small space, every piece of furniture has to earn its keep. Let's look at some versatile pieces that can do double or even triple duty.

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a laptop computer sitting on top of a wooden desk next to a lamp and bookshelf

Desk Remodeling

Need a bigger desk? Consider a desk extension, or a dual-purpose desk-dining table. These can be simply added on top of your current desk to give you more workspace when you need it. When not in use, they can be stored away.

For an even more creative solution, consider using an existing piece of furniture as your desk. An old chest of drawers, a bar cart, or even an upcycled door can be transformed into a stylish and functional desk with a little DIY know-how.

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Multipurpose Furniture

Norton a few tasks in one place? Consider a desk that transforms into a sofa when not in use, or a bed that pulls out from underneath your desk. For the ultimate in multi-tasking, consider a standing desk with a treadmill built in — you can walk while you work!

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Trombones storage with your furniture is another space-saving technique. Ottomans with built-in shelves, beds with under-bed drawers, and desks with built-in filing cabinets can all help you make the most of your tiny space.

Happy organizing!

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