Different Types of Desks For Every Type of Office
Each style of desk serves a different purpose, and it can be challenging to know which kind of desk is best for your office. Do you need an executive desk, a writing desk, or a computer desk? Whatever kind of desk you choose, you will want to ensure that it suits your working style and gives you the most comfort and productivity.
Computer Desk
Computer desks suit the needs of workers who use a computer to complete the bulk of their work. A computer desk can come with various features that support the use of a computer, including:
- Built-in holes for cables – to help keep your desktop space tidy and cable-free.
- Cupboards for monitors – to conceal monitors, cables, and computer accessories.
- Computer stands – to make computer screens more visible and prevent neck craning.
Writing Desk
A writing desk has a flat surface dedicated to supporting handwriting tasks. Writing desks often come with drawer storage space where one can store writing tools such as pens, paper, and other office stationery.
Credenza Desk
A credenza desk is ideal for those with a significant need for storage space. The desk has drawers, cabinets, and often shelves extending above the desk surface. Any storage space above the desktop is a ‘hutch’.
Carrel Desk
Carrel desks are typically found where desktop privacy is required, such as in libraries or university study areas. A carrel desk provides private space for working on a laptop, writing, or reading and has partitions placed at the edges to separate your desk from your partner’s desk.
Trestle Desk
A trestle desk is a desk that has only two legs instead of four. The desk is designed this way so that you can dismantle it easily. A trestle desk is ideal for multiple people and would make an excellent choice for those looking for an art or design desktop space.
Lap Desk
A lap desk is perfect for those with disabilities or those who like to work from a comfortable seat like a sofa or bed. The lap desk folds out like a breakfast-in-bed tray, creating an elevated desk space in your lap.
Dual-sided Desk
A dual-sided desk is ideal for collaborative workspaces. It consists of two desks attached, sometimes sharing legs. If you need to save space or facilitate communication throughout the working day, then a dual-sided desk is the ideal solution.
Executive Desk
An executive desk supports the daily responsibilities of an executive. The executive desk often has significant storage space and file drawers, and therefore inhabits a larger footprint. Executive desks are similar to pedestal desks; only they take up much more space.
Standing Desk
A standing desk facilitates working while in a vertical position. Standing desks are often adjustable so you can work at the optimal level for height. You have options of sitting or standing with a standing desk.
Corner Desk
A corner desk is designed to fit into the corner of a room. Corner desks can be excellent space-saving solutions and provide more space on either side of the user to place coffee, documents, and work accessories.
Secretary Desk
A secretary desk is one of the most versatile pieces of furniture and is the ‘swiss army knife of desks. A secretary’s desk takes the shape of a cabinet, with a pull-down shelf that acts as a desktop space.
Roll-Top Desk
A roll-top desk is another foldaway-style desk ideal for a home office. If your desk is often untidy, you can simply roll down the roll-top desk to conceal the documents and files.
Treadmill Desk
The treadmill desk is the perfect solution for those trying to stay active and fit. By opting for a treadmill desk, you can become the ultimate multitasker and burn off calories while you work.
Floating Desk
A floating desk is a desk that doesn’t have any legs. Instead, it is attached to the wall, often with hinges that allow it to fold away when not used. A floating desk is an ideal space-saving solution and is excellent for creating a multifunctional space.
Butler’s Desk
A butler’s desk is used to store and edit documents and files. It takes the shape of a traditional set of drawers; only the top shelf folds down, displaying file storage space and providing a ledge for writing.
Armoire Desk
If you’re looking to incorporate a desk into your room without looking like a desk, armoire desks are the best way to conceal a desk.
Telephone Desk
A telephone desk is typically an antique desk/table that provides enough space for an old-school telephone and a place to write notes.
Vanity Desk
A vanity desk is a multifunctional furniture item that can be used as a dressing table or desk, often with a small bench or stool.
L-Shaped Desk
If you need to fit a desk into a corner, then an L-shaped desk is the perfect fit. You can use half of your L-shaped desk as a computer desk and the other half as a writing desk.
Lectern Desk
A lectern desk facilitates reading and is also perfect for giving speeches. It can be a tall lectern desk, allowing for giving lectures while standing, or it can be shorter for reading tasks.
Ladder Desk
A ladder desk is a modern design desk built into a ladder to create a hybrid desk and shelving unit. The ladder desk is stylish and ideal for a small home office because of its small footprint.
Kitchen Desk
A kitchen desk is a great way to maximize your space and gives you a great place to pay bills or work remotely.
Workstation Desk
A workstation desk is ideal for an open-plan or communal office space. It allows you to place many desks in one area, and the dividers between desks provide an element of privacy.
Circular Desk
A circular desk is one of the most social desk designs and facilitates collaboration. Many workers can sit around a circular desk with enough space to work while at the same time communicating directly with others at the table.
Peninsula Desk
A peninsula desk is attached to a return with drawers from the middle of the shelving unit. A peninsula desk might be the solution if you have excessive storage needs or are struggling to fit both a desk and a shelving unit in your office space.
Murphy Desk
A murphy desk is a pull-down desk attached to the wall with hinges. You can fold it up to the wall when you’re done. This is an excellent solution for remote workers without much space in an office.
Wood Desk
A wood desk is the most traditional form of a desk. It can create a warm, traditional feel in your office and is a robust material that will last.
Metal Desk
A metal desk is another durable option for your office desks and will withstand the test of time.
Gaming Desk
A gaming desk is for recreational gaming activities and usually has adjustable height options and provides space for monitors, consoles, speakers, and gaming accessories.
Bench System Desk
A bench system desk is perfect for creating a collaborative workspace. It is an extra-long desk that facilitates the addition of several monitors and chairs, allowing many employees to work at a single desk.
Wave Desk
With a wave desk, the desktop has a curved front to provide more ergonomic and contemporary desktop computer space.
U-Shaped Desk
A U-shaped desk combines the features of a desk, a bridge, and a credenza to provide you with a wrap-around workspace.
Bow-Front Desk
A bow-front desk has a curved edge that hangs over the user, allowing for more writing space. This is an ideal desktop computer workstation.
Reception Desk
A reception desk is a desk that facilitates communication with visitors and has enough space for desktop computers and a sign-in sheet.
Essential Questions To Ask When Finding The Right Desk
To find the perfect desk for your office, you’ll need to know what materials to opt for and which desk would most suit your needs. This section will answer the top questions when finding a suitable office desk.
What Type Of Wood Is Used In Desks?
Here are some of your choices when it comes to wooden desks:
- Laminate
- Solid natural wood
- Wood veneer
What Type Of Metal Is Used In Desks?
The type of metal you choose for your desks ultimately depends on the style and feel you’re looking for. You can select copper, iron, steel, brass, and aluminum, and there are also many types of finishes.
What is the Best Location For My Desk?
If you want to place your desk in the optimal position, look for a natural light source. Natural light significantly impacts productivity and helps one feel more alert and energetic throughout the day. It will also provide a great place to participate in video meetings so you can avoid looking like you’re sitting in a dark dungeon.
How Do I Plan To Use My Desks?
Understanding the main purpose of your desks helps you determine which types of desks best match your business goals.
What Are The Smallest Desks?
The smallest desks are telephone desks, lectern desks, lap desks, and floating desks.
What Are The Biggest Desks?
The most oversized desks are bench-system desks, executive desks, reception desks, and credenza desks.
What Are The Differences Between Executive And Computer Desks?
A computer desk is traditionally smaller than an executive desk.
What Are The Differences Between Computer And Writing Desks?
The key differences between computer and writing desks are that computer desks often have holes for cables to fit through.
Conclusion
From standing desks to small computer desks, your options for furnishing your office are limitless. Some desks provide ample storage space, whereas others are space savers. Ultimately, the desk you choose depends on your needs, existing decor, and budget. If you’re looking to furnish your home office or workspace, check out the different types of desks available at Freedman’s Office Furniture. We love what we do and can help you find the perfect desk for your space!