Working from home is the “new normal“.
And this caused many of us to find a way to create a functioning workspace right in the comforts of our own homes.
This might sound inviting and exciting at first, but it can be tricky to find the right spot and how to make it work, especially in choosing the right furniture for your very own workspace.
And I came upon this dilemma awhile back and found myself asking a good question: “What should I consider when buying a computer desk for a small space?” because I did in fact only have a quaint space and I had to maximize every little bit of it.
And so my quest to find a computer desk that can perfectly fit into the picture began because it’s the centerpiece furniture that will define my workstation. And I knew I needed to nail this one because it’s where I am going to work every single day.
Today, I will gladly share with you some of the tips and tricks that I’ve picked up from long hours of research and scrolling through interior design blogs and websites that ultimately helped me create the workspace of my dreams.
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<<Have you found the perfect desk design? We have here 17 computer desks designed to help maximize a small space. You’ll love them!
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8 Most Important Things To Consider When Buying A Computer Desk For A Small Space
1.) Define the Available Space
The first and most important step for you to take is for you to identify and Define the Available Space that you can work with. It will be your blank canvass.
This will help you narrow down your choices when you’re out choosing a computer desk that can match your needs and the space you have allotted for your workspace.
It’s also essential for you to make sure that the space that you’re going to choose will allow free movement and will not restrict you in any way because this can bother you in the long run and can or will affect your productivity.
A computer desk that looks beautiful and appeals to your eyes but will confine your movements will do you no good in the long run, as you might also end up just buying a different desk if it does not work well with you after some time.
It’s also best to opt for a computer desk that will perfectly blend in with the current environment of your space, so it will look warm and welcoming for added motivation to work every day.
2.) Dimensions
Now that you’ve identified the space that you’re working with, the next thing you need to determine is the Dimensions of the computer desk that you’re eyeing on.
If you’re buying online, try going for products with expansive product specifications that give details regarding the overall dimension of the computer desk. In this way, you’ll be able to get a visual and see if it can fit where you want it to be placed.
This will save you from returns and exchanges because that will only cause you frustration especially if it ends up smaller or bigger than you thought it would be. It’s better to anticipate ahead than to surprise yourself with something that will not work with your space.
Creating the visuals of the final look of how your workspace is going to look with the computer desks right there will help you select the right desk that will meet all your personal work needs.
3.) Desk Shape
The Desk Shape is also something that you should put into consideration. Most computer desks come in different shapes and sizes but the most common ones are Rectangular, L-shaped, and Corner desks.
There are also unconventional desk shapes which are the oval-shaped, and U-shaped desks. They can be a bit tricky to fit into a small space, but if they can work into yours you can go with them if you’re looking for something unique and peculiar.
But I do suggest you get a rectangular or corner desk, they can work in any kind of space as long as they can fit comfortably into your allotted space.
Desk space is also to be considered, are you in need of a lot of space for paperwork and other materials that you use while you work? If yes, opt for a desk with larger desk space to accommodate your needs.
3.) Choice Of Color
Your next stop will be your Choice of Color for the computer desk where you’ll be working on a daily basis. So, technically you need to nail this one—it’s always a good idea to start with light colors as they have the ability to make small spaces appear bigger than they actually are.
Light colors can open up even the smallest spaces, so if you only have about a few square feet of available space to work with, lighter tones are your best bet.
Also, try to choose a color that will not clash with the tone of colors that are already present in the room you’re planning to put the desk in, choosing a color that will conflict with other colors will make the room look heavy and not easy to look at—and we surely don’t want that.
Choosing the right color will make your workspace look inviting and that’s what we want because this will help you feel more energized and pumped up to work if your desk attracts you just by looking at it.
If you still want to go with a darker color, you can add light accents to help brighten up your computer desk, maybe you can throw in some light-colored curtains or a rug to brighten up your space.
It’s all about bringing in the balance, you don’t want to be too dark when you’re working because a well-lit working space is always ideal.
4.) Durability
Now, we all know that furniture doesn’t come cheap, so it’s best to buy something that is worth your money and is guaranteed to stand the test of time.
It is a must for you to consider the Durability of the computer desk that you’re planning to purchase—you certainly don’t want a flimsy computer desk that will crumble down after a year of use. Try to look for a computer desk that is sturdy and compact to ensure you that it can be of use even after a decade or so.
Keep in mind that even if it looks pleasing to the eye but it does not guarantee durability, purchasing it will just be an absolute waste of money because you’re just going to end up buying another one to replace it.
Opt to purchase a computer desk from companies known to produce quality products, especially if they’re backed up with good reviews from customers who have previously purchased it.
If you’re buying online, if the product comes at an unbelievable price but looks suspicious and seems to be too good to be true, please try to stay away from it.
5.) Material
Aside from the durability of the computer desk, you should also look into the material used to make the desk as a whole.
You’ll be able to see different desks made from different varieties of materials, some are made from wood, some plastic, some steel. If you’re to choose, I would suggest going for wooden made desks, they are proven to be most durable and they are also highly recommended for any kind of furniture.
You’ll be able to see desks made from laminated MDF wood, which is an alternative to solid wood. They can offer the same stability but they tend to expand especially when they get wet as the fibers within them expand.
They’re a much cheaper option, but still genuine wood is much more ideal for long-term use.
6.) Ergonomics
Ergonomics improves a person’s efficiency in their working environment. It’s highly important for you to consider the computer desk’s ergonomics before making the final decision to purchase it. Ask yourself if it will help you become more efficient and productive at work.
You have to look into the small details like how you will be able to move while working on it, does it include a pull-out keyboard tray?
How about the edges? You might end up bruised if it has edges that are too sharp? I mean, I can’t even count how many times I’ve accidentally bumped into my computer desk at work that resulted in a few bumps and bruises.
This is why I chose a desk with round edges for my computer desk at home. They give a softer look and feel to my workspace—plus they’re aesthetic too!
Comfort also falls under this category, purchasing a computer desk that is not comfortable to work with at all is just non-sense. You’ll be using it for most of your day, so it’s best to go for something that will be comfortable to use and the design should never compromise it.
7.) Additional Features
Drawers, shelves, and cabinets are some of the additional features that you can look into. These additional features can help you stay organized for improved efficiency and productivity.
I myself like to have a few layers of drawers to keep some of my office supplies at bay. With built-in shelves and drawers, you no longer need to buy additional furniture for storage because it’s already infused with your computer desk which is practical for small spaces.
It’s also best if you can opt for a computer desk with a cable management feature which is very helpful especially if you’re using a desktop that requires wires to operate.
8.) Pre-Assembled or Ready-to-Assemble
This one might not sound that important but you’ll surely thank yourself for putting this into consideration.
I have encountered many times where I find myself sweating profusely while trying to follow an instruction manual for furniture that almost takes me a good two hours just to finish putting everything together.
I actually find it kind of therapeutic and fun because I get to test my building skills as I get down on the floor trying to find where this bolt should go, and where that screw should go.
But if you’re someone who does not have the time to build it up yourself, it’s better to opt for a pre-assembled computer desk to save both your time and effort.
But pre-assembled ones are actually more costly compared to the ready-to-assemble computer desk, this is due to the quality difference between the two and of course the shipping cost especially when you’re buying online.
8 Key Questions To Ask Yourself Before Making The Final Selection
- Does this computer desk meet my work requirements?
- What type of computer do I have?
- How does my typical workday go by?
- Is this desk going to allow me to move freely within my workspace area?
- What’s my style?
- Is this desk going to match the aesthetic style I’m going for?
- Is additional storage space a must for me?
- Can I afford this desk given my allotted budget?
Answering these questions will also help you know whether if it’s the right computer desk for you. If the shoe fits, then you should be all set!
Bonus tips: Opt for a “floating like” computer desk design, this will open up and make your workspace look bigger than it is. Light and sleek designs are also best for small spaces.
It’s also best to opt for a double-duty desk! You can use it as a computer desk during work hours, and also as a coffee table in the morning before work! Transforming furniture is a trend for small spaces these days.
If you still need additional storage apart from the drawers and shelves that come with the computer desk, you can accessorize with suspended or floating shelves on top of your desk if facing a wall, on the sides of your desk can perfectly work as well.
And that’s it for today—I hope you enjoyed it and picked up some tips that you can use for your computer desk hunting!
If you’re in a hurry to find a computer desk right away, you can check out this informative article with great selections of the best computer desks for teachers here!
Come back here and tell us about your new computer desk once you’ve purchased it, I bet it’ll be awesome!
