Selecting desks for home office needs can be an exciting adventure that involves considering several details. Some people prefer all matching finishes, while others focus solely on functional utility features. Let’s explore some key points to keep in mind when finding the perfect ensemble. Most of your work will take place at your desk, so you want it to be comfortable with ample space for the items you use most frequently. Your computer will need a resting place, and you might also have a printer or a fax machine that requires its own designated space. Don’t forget about the telephone, which should be within easy reach, and perhaps a calculator that also needs its own spot.
Cubbyholes are the hallmark of an organized mind, and a truly functional desk should have many designated places for frequently used items. You wouldn’t want to miss an important appointment because a note about it got lost under a pile of papers. A desk designed for multi-tasking could be well worth investigating. Every time you open your snail mail, there are more documents that need filing. A desk with a system for organizing these file folders could be very handy. Some models have more than one file drawer, while others have none. You might prefer a desktop folder accessory instead. An all-purpose desk would include a place for a computer keyboard and even a recessed spot for a laptop to stay out of the way. Most units come with a keyboard tray that slides out when needed and retracts when not in use. A full-sized computer may require a protected and out-of-the-way location.
The desk's finish will need periodic cleaning, so choosing a surface that can withstand moisture might prove advantageous. Coffee and hot tea could damage some finishes, so a heat-resistant surface might be worth considering. Moving office equipment across the surface could cause scratches, so a scratch-resistant finish might be the best option. Each job description in an office could necessitate a different style of desk. There are four main types. The computer desk is specifically designed for computer needs, while a receptionist’s desk might only require a surface and perhaps a single drawer. Other requirements might call for an L-shaped unit, while an information center could benefit more from a U-shaped model.
Next, learn more about home office furniture and discover how to choose the right home office desk for your needs.