15 Types of Desks to Consider for Your Home Office

There are many types of desks to consider for your home office, from compact writing desks and collapsible folding desks to treadmill desks for staying active, all tailored to match different work habits and styles. 

Whether you’re working with a small room or looking to make a bold statement with your home office desk, this guide has options for every need. You’ll even learn about my personal experience with choosing a no-storage desk but managing to keep everything within reach. 

Writing Desk: For Small Spaces

If you’ve got limited space but still want a stylish home office, a writing desk is your best bet. These small desks offer just enough room for your laptop and a few essential supplies, allowing you to create a cozy nook anywhere in your home.

Best for: Those with limited space who still want a stylish workspace.

Key Features:

• Compact size and perfect for small rooms
• Simple aesthetic that blends well with most home decor styles
• May come with storage options (drawers or shelves)

Pros	Cons
• Space-saving and fits easily in different parts of the room • Versatile design	• Limited surface area and may feel cramped for larger work projects • May lack more storage for extensive office supplies

Executive Desk: For Boss-Level Style

Want to feel like the big boss while you work from home? An executive desk will help you command your space. With ample room for all your files, gadgets, and that all-important coffee cup, it’s the perfect blend of functionality and sophistication.

Best for: Professionals or home-based entrepreneurs who want a stylish yet practical workspace for their big rooms.

Key features: 

• Large surface area
• Built-in storage (drawers and compartments) for essential supplies
• High-quality materials, typically crafted from durable wood or metal

Pros	Cons
• Impressive aesthetic and can make a statement  • Plenty of room for work and personal items	• Can be bulky and best only for larger rooms • Higher price point as quality and size makes it an investment piece

Corner Desk: For Maximizing Workspace

If you have a cozy corner that’s just begging for some love, a corner or L-shaped desk is the perfect solution. It fits neatly into tight spaces and gives you plenty of room to spread out your work without feeling cramped. Think of it as your personal productivity corner, where you can tackle everything from Zoom calls to creative projects.

Best for: Those who want to make the most of every inch in their home office.

Key features:

• Fits snugly into corners
• Extended work area and offers space for multitasking 
• Often includes additional storage (shelves or drawers) for keeping essentials within reach

Pros	Cons
• Makes smart use of corners  and smaller areas • Great for multitasking, supports multiple projects or devices • Allows for added storage like cabinets underneath or overhead shelves	• May not fit in all room layouts • Limited access from one side

Standing Desk: For the Health-Conscious

If you’re looking to shake off that sedentary lifestyle, a standing desk might just be your new best friend. Imagine being able to shift between sitting and standing throughout your workday. Plus, it helps you stay alert and active while tackling those endless tasks.

Best for: Health-conscious individuals looking to keep moving during the workday.

Key features:

• Adjustable height, customizable to your preferred height
• Encourages movement
• Smart features (programmable height settings) allow you to effortlessly switch between sitting and standing

Pros	Cons
• Looks more aesthetically pleasing and contemporary • Helps reduce fatigue and improves posture • Promotes a healthier work style	• Can be expensive, depending on the brand and features • Not suitable for all tasks as some tasks may require sitting for better focus

Folding Desk: For Easy Setup Anywhere

Need a desk that can be set up in a pinch? A folding desk is your go-to solution. Whether you need a quick workspace for a project or want to work outside on a sunny day, these portable beauties are ready for action. Plus, they’re super easy to tuck away when you’re done.

Best for: Those who need a flexible workspace that can be easily relocated or stored away. 

Key features:

• Collapsible design for quick setup and takedown
• Lightweight and easy to carry and move around

Pros	Cons
• Versatile for temporary workspaces • Easy to store when not in use • Typically more affordable than traditional desks	• Less sturdy than traditional desks • May lack built-in storage for work supplies

Lap Desk: For Comfortable Mobility

For those lazy days when you want to work from the couch or bed, a lap desk is a game changer. It gives you the freedom to set up your workstation anywhere — no more dragging your laptop around. Picture yourself curled up on the couch with your favorite blanket, laptop in hand, and the lap desk resting comfortably on your lap.

Best for: Remote workers or students who prefer a relaxed workspace and enjoy the flexibility to work from any spot in the house.

Key features:

• Portable design, lightweight, and easy to carry
• Flat surface for laptops or tablets
• Comfort padding

Pros	Cons
• Great for working from different locations • Padding provides comfort for extended use	• Limited workspace, challenging to use with extra items like a notebook or a mouse • Not suitable for intensive tasks

Examples: 

Floating Desk: For Space-Saving with Style

If you love a minimalist, clutter-free look, a floating desk might be just what you need. These sleek, wall-mounted desks add a modern touch to your office without taking up valuable floor space. Imagine a tidy, airy workspace where everything you need is just within reach.

Best for: Those with small rooms looking to maximize floor space while adding a touch of modern style to their home office.

Key features:

• Wall-mounted design
• Minimalist, streamlined look for modern appeal
• Often includes shelves for storage

Pros	Cons
• Frees up floor space so you can use it for other furniture or decor • Adds a modern touch to the room • Can be installed at a height that suits you best	• Installation required which may be tricky for renters or those without the right tools • Not suitable for heavy items

Dual-Sided Desk: For Co-Working

If you and a partner share your home office, a dual-sided desk can turn your workspace into a collaboration hub. These desks allow two people to work side by side, making it easy to bounce ideas off each other while keeping the flow going. Imagine the productive conversations and brainstorming sessions that could happen.

Best for: Couples, roommates, or co-workers working together at home. 

Key features:

• Collaborative setup for two users
• Shared storage (drawers, shelves) and cable management

Pros	Cons
• Promotes teamwork and makes it easy to collaborate especially for creative projects • Ideal for shared spaces, reducing the need for separate desks	• Requires more floor space than a single desk so not ideal for smaller rooms • May be more expensive due to added materials and features

Hutch Desk: For Heavy Storage

Want a workspace that can double as a mini-library? Hutch desks provide both a functional desk and organized storage in one, helping you make the most of vertical space. With shelves and compartments right on top, everything you need — from books to supplies — is at your fingertips, creating a neat, efficient workspace.

Best for: Those who need a larger storage solution in a confined footprint or prefer having essentials within reach.

Key features:

• Offers multiple shelves, compartments, and cubbies to store books, office supplies, or decor
• With added height and structure of a hutch for a more refined look

Pros	Cons
• Maximizes vertical storage with shelves and compartments • Offers a polished, professional appearance • Keeps everything organized and within reach	• Often bulky and requires a dedicated space • Can be pricier than simpler desk designs due to additional storage

Murphy Desk: For Saving Floor Space

Need a desk but short on space? Murphy desks fold down from the wall when you need them and tuck away when you don’t. They can keep your area open and uncluttered when you’re on your day off.

Best for: Small spaces or multi-purpose rooms that need a flexible workspace solution.

Key features:

• Fold-down design, providing a full workspace without occupying permanent space
• May come with built-in shelving or compartments

Pros	Cons
• Saves tons of space, allowing you to transform any area into a workspace without losing valuable floor space • Easily folds away, making it great for rooms that serve multiple functions	• Installation may be a bit tricky, definitely a DIY challenge • May not be as durable or sturdy as traditional desks, especially for heavier tasks

Glass Desk: For Modern Elegance

For those who want to bring a touch of sophistication to their workspace, a glass desk is the way to go. With its sleek surface and contemporary aesthetic, it not only looks good but also creates an open and inviting atmosphere. Just imagine how nice it would be to have a bright, airy desk where you can easily organize your work.

Best for: Anyone wanting to elevate their home office with a chic, modern look.

Key features:

• Sleek glass top
• Often paired with stylish metal or wood legs
• Easy to wipe clean

Pros	Cons
• Adds a clean, contemporary style that complements a modern aesthetic • The transparent glass creates an open feel in the room • Easy to maintain and clean	• Can be fragile and more delicate than other materials like wood • May show smudges and fingerprints if not cleaned regularly

Metal Desk: For Industrial Style

If you love an edgy, industrial look, a metal desk could be your perfect match. Sturdy and stylish, these desks can handle your work demands while adding a unique flair to your home office. You can place your favorite vintage decor alongside this desk to create a workspace that’s both functional and packed with personality.

Best for: Anyone looking for a durable, lasting desk for their home office.

Key features:

• Built to withstand wear and tear
• Features a raw, utilitarian look that complements urban, rustic, or minimalist themes
• Often features finishes that give it a vintage feel, such as distressed metal or brushed surfaces

Pros	Cons
• Extremely durable and made from resilient materials • Low-maintenance and easy to clean  • Often more affordable than wood or glass desk	• Can feel uninviting or too industrial • Works better as accent pieces rather than as main features in a room

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No-Storage Metal Desk: How I Made It Work in a Small Space

I recently went for a small metal desk with a wood top for my home office for a minimalist touch. Since it’s essentially just a plain table without built-in storage, I had to get creative with my limited space.

Here’s what I did:

• Mounted a pegboard above the desk for essentials like pens, notebooks, and cables
• Added a wooden laptop riser on the desk that doubles as a rack for smaller supplies and a spot for some cute decor 
• Placed my clothing storage beside it to use the top for holding books and extra supplies
• Tucked another small drawer unit underneath the desk for even more storage 

So for me, that no-storage metal desk is still perfect for my home office — it’s just a matter of getting a bit creative to make it work.

~ Aly Narvaez

If you plan to DIY your workspace like I did, these resources might help:

• How to Choose the Best Desk Dimensions for Your Home Office
• How to Measure a Desk Correctly 

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Gaming Desk: For Gamers

If you’re serious about both your gaming setup and workstation, a dedicated gaming desk is a must-have. With ergonomic designs and plenty of space for your gear, these desks will help you game and work in comfort and style. Imagine long sessions without discomfort and having everything you need right at your fingertips.

Best for: Gamers who want a functional, comfortable desk that enhances both work and play.

Key features:

• Ergonomic design, crafted to support long hours 
• Cable management features
• Often includes RGB/customizable lighting

Pros	Cons
• Provides comfort during long gaming or work sessions • Customized for tech setups like multiple monitors	• Can take more space as setups are usually larger • Can be pricier than standard desks

Treadmill Desk: For Staying Active While Working

Want to combine your love for fitness with your work life? A treadmill desk allows you to walk while you work. Just think about the energy boost you’ll get from moving around as you tackle emails and projects. It’s the perfect way to keep your body active while staying productive.

Best for: Active individuals looking to incorporate more movement into their workday.

Key features:

• Built-in treadmill that lets you walk while you work
• Adjustable, customizable height
• Designed for smooth, quiet function

Pros	Cons
• Promotes physical activity • Can boost productivity as staying active may help some workers focus better	• Requires space as treadmill desks are larger  • Can be expensive due to treadmill component

 Closet Desk: For A Cloffice

If you’re short on room but need a dedicated workspace, a closet desk — for your “cloffice,” or closet office — might be the ultimate solution. This clever design allows you to transform a closet into a compact office space, complete with everything you need close at hand. Just imagine opening that closet door to reveal your hidden workstation.

Best for: Anyone with a small home who wants a discreet, functional workspace.

Key features:

• Fits into existing closet spaces
• Can be hidden behind closed doors when not in use
• Often includes shelves and drawers for storage

Pros	Cons
• Maximizes small spaces • Makes use of unused closets • Can keep your workspace out of sight when not in use	• Limited space for larger items • May require some DIY installation to customize layout and storage

For Your Home Office Glow-Up

Now that you know the different desk types, you likely have an idea of what suits your needs and style. But a great home office is more than just a desk.

If you’d rather skip the setup struggles, consider calling in a pro. Whether it’s assembling your desk, installing lighting, or making adjustments to your space, a home improvement expert or a furniture assembly pro can handle the details so you can focus on enjoying your new workspace.

Main Image Credit: All images have been credited in the above article