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If you need to squeeze a productive workspace into a small space, like a bedroom, dorm room, studio apartment, or tiny living room, you’ve come to the right place!
Almost half all city apartment or condominium dwellers have some sort of work from home arrangement, according to a 2023 Urban Housing Report. Combine that with the fact that apartments and condo’s are getting smaller, average living spaces have shrunk by 12% over past decade, means that you’re not alone in your search for creating a stylish, functional, and yet productive home office in small spaces.
We have found that starting with the floor space to look for the right computer desk – whether that’s an l shaped desk, corner desk, simple laptop desk – and seating area and building out from there is the most helpful, so let’s dive in!
Key Measurements for Your Small Computer Desk
You’ve got to make it fit – ergonomics expert Dr. Sarah Chen says that these are the minimum measurements you’ll want for a comfortable workspace:
- Desk depth: 20-24 inches (minimum for a laptop setup)
- Desk width: 32-36 inches (allows space for a monitor and basic supplies)
- Height: 28-30 inches (standard for most adults)
- Knee clearance: At least 24 inches
If you’re getting a new desk, we suggest looking for one with a keyboard tray, if possible, because of ergonomics (comfort & feel) plus extra space if you’re working from a desktop.
It is enormously helpful to use painters tape (the green rolls at any home hardware store) to mark the dimensions on your floor – don’t try to wing it, it’s too expensive to start over if you’ve already purchased your setup and your space can’t accommodate your computer desk, chair, etc.
Smart Features to Look for in a Small Computer Desk
We have found that makers of small computer desks have been getting cleverer (is that a word?) with their designs to fit into smaller spaces but accommodate a full workplace feel. Some are:
- Built-in cable management to keeps your wires and cords together and out of the way
- Vertical storage solutions (shelves, hutches) to hold your office supplies
- Foldable desks, or mobile options (i.e. table with wheels) are quite helpful if you need your computer desk to be tucked away, like in bedrooms or living rooms
- Multi-functional features like pull-out keyboard trays that can also hold a mouse
- An adjustable standing desk can come in small sizes and have tons of health benefits: Standing Desk: What are the Health Benefits according to Experts
- Best rollerball we've used, personally
- Excellent balance
- Stylish design
Types of Small Computer Desks for Different Spaces
1. Corner Desk
Ideal for maximizing corner space in tight corners
- L-shaped desk design utilizes otherwise wasted space and gives you elbow props
- Often includes ample storage solutions, like drawers
- Typically fits a monitor or two
2. Wall-Mounted Desks
These are ideal for ultra-tight spaces because you can fold them down when you’re not using them. Some even include built-in storage, like a shelf. However, these are most appropriate if you are only using a laptop and not a desktop or need multiple monitors.
3. Rolling Adjustable Standing Desks
When you need to move your workspace around, like for video meetings or to get it out of the way when guests come over, being able to roll your computer desk can be quite handy. Many of these have some form of height adjustable standing desk built in. However, these are most appropriate if you are only using a laptop and not a desktop or need multiple monitors.
4. Secretary Desks
If you are style-conscious, yet need to fit your computer desk into small spaces, these can be a great option. Most have built-in storage to hide clutter and are generally more decorative than standard computer desks.
How to Maximize Your Small Computer Desk Space
Once you’ve chosen your desk, here are some guidelines to help you maximize your choice for your space:
- Vertical Organization
- Monitor arms to free up desk surface space
- Under-desk CPU mounts
- Stackable desktop organizers
- Smart Storage Solutions
- Magnetic strips for metal tools
- Under-desk drawer units
- Over-desk shelving units
Common Mistakes to Avoid when choosing a Small Computer Desk
In my experience helping friends set up their small home offices, here are the biggest pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overlooking Ergonomics
- Don’t sacrifice comfort for compactness
- Ensure proper monitor height to help your posture (in 20 years you’ll thank us)
- Allow enough space for the little things, like comfortable typing and even moving your mouse around
- Ignoring Workflow Needs
- Consider what your daily tasks involve
- Plan for equipment and office supplies storage requirements
- Think about storage needs
- Forgetting About Growth
- Try to allow some flexibility for future needs
- Consider adjustable or expandable options
- Plan for potential technology upgrades
Best Practices for Small Computer Desk Setup
A 2023 Home Office Ergonomics Study found that these setup tips can help you increase productivity by up to 27% in small spaces:
- Position your desk near natural light when possible
- Keep frequently used items within arm’s reach
- Use a desk lamp for task lighting
- Implement a cable management system from day one
- Create designated zones for different activities
- Consider placing your desk in living rooms to blend work and leisure spaces seamlessly
Future-Proofing Your Small Computer Desk Space
The way we work continues to evolve. According to Workspace Design Quarterly, these trends are worth considering:
- Wireless charging integration
- Built-in USB ports
- Modular design for flexibility
- Sustainable materials
- Smart storage solutions
- Consider modular designs that can be adapted into a gaming station for versatility
Price Considerations
From my research and personal experience, here’s what you can expect to spend:
- Budget-friendly: $75-150 (basic functionality)
- Mid-range: $150-300 (better quality, more features, including gaming desks)
- High-end: $300+ (premium materials, smart features)
An FYI that a 2023 Consumer Furniture Report found that buyers who spent at least $200 on their compact desk reported 40% higher satisfaction after one year compared to those who spent less than $100. You’re probably going to have your setup for a long time, so consider stretching your budget a bit more to purchase something you really want and can be proud of.
Conclusion: Making Your Decision
Whatever you need a small computer desk for, even if it’s a writing desk or gaming desks, there are so many options these days. We saw earlier that more and more people are working from home and that apartments and condo’s are getting smaller, so computer desk makers have felt the push to become more versatile and affordable.
Remember, take measurements and tape out your space to avoid unfortunate blunders. What sort of daily workflow do you need both now and into the future, and how are you going to live around your workspace? These are all important questions to ask and if you need to spend a bit extra to ensure your productivity remains high at home, it’s probably a wise investment.
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