Desks have come a long way. Once thought of as islands of monotonous work and cranky bosses, office desks have found new life with the rise of the personal computer. Now, computer desks not only exist to lighten your list at work but for a variety of other reasons, such as entertainment. That's why it's more important than ever to find the type of computer desk that's as good at multitasking as you are. Choosing an office desk that suits your purposes exactly can be a challenge. This office desk buying guide should help you find just the right home office furniture.
Ending up with the wrong desk will haunt you for a long time. Take some time to think about exactly what you're looking for in a desk. It doesn't matter if you're strictly business or hoping to catch up with your favorite TV show online; a great desk in your home office will make everything you hope to do more enjoyable.
Every home office is unique. Naturally, your office will call for furniture to suit your personal needs. You'll want to take several things into account when choosing an office desk. Among those are how you'll be utilizing your computer desk, your decorating style and your budget. With those in mind, you'll want to think about the core basics of office desk buying: how much space you have, how you'd like to organize your work and what sort of material you'd like your desk to be made of.
Space
The amount of space your office provides for a computer desk is something you'll definitely have to consider. However, there's no need to panic about finding the right size of office desk for your situation. Whether you're planning to set up your office bedside in a one-bedroom or in the sprawl of your remodeled basement, there are capable desks in all shapes and sizes.
Of course, larger rooms allow for a lot of freedom in regards to home office furniture size. If you're interested in a large, flat space on which to keep your work spread out, a flat-front or bow-front executive desk is the way to go. For more computer desk space, U- and L-shaped desks trade the wide top of an executive desk for increased real estate on their extended arms. Plus, they make smart use of wall space.
If you're battling your office for every square foot, there are plenty of office desks available for smaller rooms. One option is to take a cue from big cities and go vertical. Hutch desks and secretary desks save floor space by offering work space and shelves up and down your wall. If you need something even more compact, keep an eye out for compact rolling plastic workstations. These handy devices aren't just small; they're also easy to move in case you have company over after work. Another excellent option for a tiny space is the corner desk. A corner computer desk will make good use of unused space and provide you with a decent amount of room on which to work.
Storage
Without a proper storage solution, your work space will descend into chaos. Many computer desks come equipped with ample storage. Desks with single pedestals offer two deep drawers, while desks with double pedestals offer four drawers. Armoire, secretary and hutch computer desks all offer a number of storage solutions in the form of shelves and drawers. If space doesn't allow for a larger office desk with drawers, there are other answers. Think about a small file cabinet or pick up some wall shelves.
Material
Your computer desk will be the anchor of your home office. If possible, choose your desk before thinking about other furniture. Solid wood desks are largely sought after for their solid construction and classic looks. A desk built with solid wood such as oak or mahogany will match with virtually any d?cor and last for ages. If you are looking for a more contemporary feeling in your home office, a metal desk will do the trick. Steel desks provide a sharp sense of modernity while remaining just as functional as they are durable.
Moving to college for the first time is a massive step in anyone's life. The appropriate desk can make that step a successful one, whether you're studying for your physics final or just emailing Mom.
Space
A large dorm room is a rare breed. With that in mind, choosing a desk to squeeze in between your pile of laundry and stack of books can be slightly tricky. A corner desk or laptop-friendly desk with wheels will help you pack all your stuff in. Student desks, which resemble small tables, have room beneath them for books and computer towers. Of course, if you're looking for a way to work in a slightly bigger desk, bunk beds can help you eek out a few extra square feet.
Storage
Most computer desks will offer at least a drawer or a few shelves. If you need more space beyond that, you have options. A file cabinet tucked beneath a student desk is great for storing homework. A small book shelf can be placed to the side of a small desk and makes an ideal stand for a printer. Or if your situation allows, a desk with a hutch will provide generous storage capabilities.
Material
No one enjoys moving furniture, and throughout college you'll find yourself moving in and out of places. Don't forget that before setting your mind on a 400-pound solid oak desk. A more sensible option for a college student on the move is furniture made from particle board. Particle board is lightweight but sturdy and affordable to boot. On top of that, most furniture produced from particle board is sold in kits you build yourself, meaning you won't have to worry about heaving your entire desk up and down seven flights of stairs.
There are many lightweight metal desks available as well. Metal may cost slightly more than particle board, but its ability to stand up to college living may be worth the extra dough.
What are some ways I can protect my desk?
A good desk is built to last, but there are some things you can do to keep them in shape. Consider purchasing a glass top, especially for a wood desk. A sturdy piece of glass can save the top of your writing table from chipping and ink stains, plus it will provide a smoother writing surface for your writing desk, secretaire or escritoire. Some desks come with limited warranties, but a 5-year Furniture Platinum Protection Plan from Overstock.com is excellent for peace of mind.
Desks are heavy. Would I save money on shipping by purchasing locally?
Not necessarily. Overstock.com offers $2.95 shipping on all orders every day. So whether you're buying a massive desk or just the files to put in it, shipping costs shouldn't be a concern!
What can I do to make sure my desk matches the rest of my decor?
Most desks come in designs and colors to match all types of decor and furniture. If you're looking for a metal desk, stick with a neutral silver or white to play it safe. If your office could use a bit of spice, a striking red desk can embolden an entire room. The majority of stains used for wood desks match an incredibly diverse array of d?cor. Try mixing a sleek modern desk with a classic piece of furniture, like a sofa. You'll love the results!
Take a seat
A good chair is just as essential to your output as your desk. Overstock.com offers a multitude of chairs that you'll feel comfortable sitting in for long periods of time. A quality ergonomic chair can help you avoid backaches and can take (most of) the pain out of work. Keep in mind that a chair with wheels can help you move around your space easier, so think about a chair mat.
Stay organized
Nothing interrupts workflow like a messy home office. Invest in a file cabinet, shelves or a bookcase to keep things sorted. Are you on a budget? A desktop organizer and a few files can go a long way.
Shine a light
Looking over documents can be a major eye-strainer in a dim office. Think about buying a desk lamp from the large selection on Overstock.com to brighten your work day.
Whistle while you work
Music can really get you moving at work. Look through the huge selection of desktop computer speakers and CD storage on Overstock.com and let the music flow. You'll be surprised how the hours fly by!
