What Types of Desks are Just Right for Your Work?

If you’ve worked from home, you’ve likely commandeered the dining table, kitchen counter, or another functional family space. At some point, you probably decided that you needed a comfortable space separate from common living areas with storage, seating, and, of course, a desk.

The average Brit is now sitting down for more than 43 hours during a typical week — the equivalent of 93 days a year, according to new research, and nearly half (46 percent) of those polled work in a job where their primary position is sitting down. Where are they sitting? Most likely a desk.

But not all office desks are created equal. Any place where a worker spends most of their day must be comfortable, functional, ergonomic, and aesthetically pleasing. We’ll present a look at many types of desks that suit different needs so you can choose a suitable desk for your workspace, whether that’s at home or in the office.

What to consider when choosing the right desk

Office furniture is essential for setting the scene for a successful workday. Choosing the right desk goes beyond interior design and preferences for a modern, all-glass, vintage, or all-wood desk. Desk shape, size, height, build, work style, and your personal lifestyle are all crucial elements in choosing the right one. Here are some important things to think about before you buy a desk for the office or home office. 

1. What kind of work will you be doing, and how much space will you need? Someone who deals with extensive paperwork or physical writing tasks will need more space than someone whose work is entirely digital.
2. How much storage do you need? Do you need a spot to store pens, papers, and other office essentials so you can quickly and easily grab them? When choosing a desk, don’t just choose the simple, sleek design with no storage because it looks modern and cool. Choose a desk with enough space to accommodate any office supplies or file storage you need to access regularly.
3. How much weight needs to be supported? A hanging desk would never be practical for a desktop computer. Similarly, an executive desk may be a waste of space if you only need a lightweight laptop in your work area.
4. Ergonomics: If you’re spending a significant amount of time working at a desk, it should be the correct height. It’s most helpful when it’s adjustable. While office chairs are much easier to adjust than desks, many desks are now built with this feature.
5. Style: Your desk is where you’ll likely be spending most of your workday. Choose a style and design that matches your personal style (at home) or office style.

Different types of desks for different people

Here are descriptions of some of the most common types of desks and how they’re suited to different needs.

Writing desks

A writing desk is a flat, basic surface that provides a bare environment for writing and typing. These decks vary in size, but most are at least 890 mm wide and 601 mm deep. They typically have minimal storage and thin legs, as the primary function is as a writing surface. These are often found in flex workspaces where employees may not have the same desk every day or only work with their laptops.

Secretary desks

These are designed with storage and cubbies, making them great for people who need to write and complete paperwork by hand. It’s the perfect workspace for avid writers who want some nostalgic charm or people who are short on space but sometimes need to work from home. Older pieces may also have a hinged desktop surface.

Computer desks

Computer desks are a working environment designed for a large desktop computer that needs a monitor, computer tower, or printer. Most desks have additional pull-out trays, cubbies, or shelves for other electronics, like keyboards or external hard drives. This is generally the most practical and utilitarian of all office desks because it has more storage space.

Executive desks

Executive desks have a flat, sleek surface area on top, maximizing the user’s visibility during meetings. Executive desks also typically have more storage, a keyboard tray, locking filing drawers, and other spaces for sensitive paperwork and equipment. These can also be U-shaped or L-shaped desks. These carved wood specimens have a sense of grandeur and timeless class that sets them apart from other styles.

Credenza desks

Credenza desks can look similar to executive desks and secretary desks. The difference is that credenza desks combine a traditional desk with a cupboard-packed credenza. This piece of furniture is generally reserved for dining or living rooms, valued for its fashion and utility. When combined, you gain the benefits of both pieces of furniture, so long as you have the appropriate space. Overall they have a more modern feeling and prioritize storage over writing functionality.

Floating desks

Floating desks are attached to a wall and have minimal or no side supports/legs. Some desks even fold up! This makes them a popular option for condos, apartments, and smaller spaces requiring flexibility and space saving. Floating desks are usually not advised for large desktop computers or any substantial weight. Users should be careful to follow all installation instructions and weight limits.

Corner desks

Corner desks make the most of small spaces by seamlessly fitting into an open corner. While these can be larger, like L-shaped executive desks, they can also be smaller and more triangular. The best feature is their ability to provide extra legroom.

Standing desks

Standing desks are much taller than other types of desks to accommodate a standing user. Studies show that standing desks can help burn calories and reduce back and neck pain.

Treadmill desks

What was once a novelty became a pandemic phenomenon. With people stuck inside, many remote employees found that treadmill desks helped them stay active, burn calories, and foster creativity. According to recent studies, the optimum speed is walking between 1.6 and 4 kilometers per hour while working. This speed can help with higher productivity (more oxygen flow to the brain) without impacting typing proficiency.

Choosing from the many types of desks

When it comes to finding the right types of desks for your office, Sedus provides unmatched quality at competitive prices. Whether you need office desks, office chairs, tables, storage space, filing cabinets, or home office furniture, you’ll find the office furniture solutions you need at Sedus.