When it comes to boosting productivity in your home office, picking the right spot for your desk setup is already half the battle won.
It doesn’t have to be complicated — just a few simple adjustments can make a world of difference.
Whether you’re setting up in a tiny room, a small apartment, or even a shared space, here are some practical tips to help you get it right.
Finding the best desk spot in your home office
If you can, place your desk near a window to soak up some natural light. It’s a great mood booster and can help you feel more awake and focused.
But if you’re someone who gets distracted easily (hello, birdwatching!), try putting your desk perpendicular to the window. This way, you still get the light without being tempted to gaze outside all day.
Quick tip: Having the window directly behind you isn’t a very good idea — glare on your screen can be a real pain.
Should your desk face a wall or a window?
This is one of those questions that depends on your personality. If you like a bit of scenery while you work, facing a window might be just the ticket.
But if you find yourself daydreaming too much, it’s better to face a wall. Make that wall inspiring with a few pictures, a calendar, or a mood board to keep you motivated.
Quick tip: If you’re facing a wall, make sure to add some plants or artwork. It can make the space feel less crumped and stuffy.
How to fit a desk in a small space
Got a tiny room? No worries — you can still create a productive workspace.
Corners are your friend here.
A corner desk can fit snugly into an unused area, making the most of your space. If you’re really tight on room, consider a wall-mounted desk that folds away when you’re done.
Quick tip: Check out underused spots like under the stairs or in a hallway nook. These can be surprising gems for a compact workspace.
What if you need to fit two desks in one room?
Sharing an office space? You’ve got a few options.
Placing the desks face-to-face can be great for collaboration, but it’s easy to get distracted. A simple solution is to add a divider in the middle.
Alternatively, back-to-back desks give each person their own zone and might help keep the peace.
Quick tip: If space is tight, consider desks that can be adjusted in height so you can both work comfortably, even if you have different needs.
Three desks, one small office — how to do it?
Fitting three desks in a small office might sound impossible, but a U-shaped layout can work wonders.
Position each desk against a wall, creating a U that opens up into the room. This way, everyone has their own space, and you still have a bit of room to move around.
Jay, California-based power plant operator, likes to combine all his desks to form a “U” or “L” shape and often moves the whole setup around the room. “Having such a versatile desk space makes me more productive,” he says
Quick tip: Try to keep the centre of the room clear — it makes the space feel less cramped.
Making desk space work in a small apartment
Living in a small apartment means getting creative. Look for furniture that does double duty, like a desk that folds into a cabinet when not in use.
Wall-mounted desks or shelves are lifesavers, giving you a workspace without eating up your floor space.
Quick tip: If you’re really struggling with space, a desk that can convert into something else — like a dining table — might be the answer.
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How to hide your desk when you’re not working
If your workspace is also your living space, hiding your desk when you’re off the clock can help you switch off.
Consider a desk that doubles as a console table or one that can tuck away under a loft bed.
Room dividers are another simple way to keep your work zone out of sight and out of mind when you’re relaxing.
Quick tip: Decorative screens or curtains can quickly hide a desk and add a cosy vibe to your room.
FAQs: Solving common desk dilemmas
“The main feature of my workspace is that it’s fairly small, essentially a closet with a window,” says Peter Beardsley, a US-based eCommerce technical architect about his tiny and well-organised desk setup. “I like it, because it forces me to be choosy about the stuff I keep in here”
Where can I put a desk if I don’t have a spare room?
Look for underutilised areas like a wide hallway, a large closet, or a nook in your living room. Even a landing space can become a compact workstation with the right setup.
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How do I keep my desk organised in a small space?
Go vertical! Use shelves, wall-mounted organisers, or desk caddies to keep everything you need within reach without cluttering your desk.
Also, keep only the essentials on your desk — less clutter means more focus.
What’s the best desk position for productivity?
It depends on your needs. Facing a window is great for natural light, but if you’re easily distracted, face a wall with some inspiring decor.
“You don’t have to wake up at 5 am and work around the clock to be successful,” shares Olja Lobkis from Germany, reflecting on her cosy desk setup and her approach to studying, working, and living. “Be sure not to pursue anything that is right for someone else but not for you”
The key is to feel comfortable and minimise distractions.
How can I create a work zone in a shared space?
Use a room divider, curtain, or even just a different rug to define your work area. This can help mentally separate your work from your relaxation space, even if you’re in the same room.
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How do I deal with noise in a shared home office?
Noise-cancelling headphones are a game changer. You can also try adding soft furnishings like rugs and curtains to absorb sound, or use a white noise machine to drown out background noise.
Can I put my desk in the bedroom?
Yes, but try to keep it as separate from your bed as possible.
If you can, face the desk away from the bed, and consider using a room divider to create a mental barrier between work and sleep.
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Finding the perfect spot for your desk can really boost both your productivity and comfort. Whether you’re by a window, cosy in a corner, or sharing a space, it’s all about creating a setup that feels right for you. Even a few small tweaks can turn any spot into a workspace that’s not just productive but also a place you actually enjoy being in.
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