Plans for Building Your Own Desk

Orientation

• Many desk builders overlook the importance of the desk's orientation. For example, if you are an artist, you might be particularly sensitive to the direction from which natural light comes. A small work area may require an unusually shaped desk, one that can fit into the area while positioning the work surface where the light will hit it properly.

  In a similar vein, all users--especially those using computer monitors--will be concerned about unwanted glare. Incorporate a higher back on your desk, perhaps including a few bookshelves or a bulletin board, to block the light from a poorly positioned window. On an L-shaped desk, you might want to use the same technique on one of its sides. Extended sides can also provide visual separation from a public area, giving your desk a "cubicle" feel.

Size

• The work area of a desk should be large enough to handle any job you anticipate doing regularly, as well as any equipment that will sit on it. There are practical limits to the size of a desktop, of course--especially if the desk will be in a home office. In some cases, additional desk space can be added with "wings" that lay on the existing desktop and are connected with a long piano hinge. The wing can be opened when needed, providing as much as double the original desktop space.
  A support will be needed for this wing; it can be an extra leg or a roll-out cabinet standing the proper height. Convenience, stability and dependability are the primary requirements for this extra support; the simpler it is, the better.

Height

• Desktops are generally built for use with a standard desk chair, but building a desk to personal specifications allows a much greater range of options. A desk may be built for use while sitting on the floor, standing up, or any working position in-between. Build your desk at the height that allows you to be most comfortable and productive.

Storage

• Desks frequently incorporate bookshelves and drawers, but there are other options available. File cabinets, racks for storing artwork or rolled blueprints, rolling cabinets and chests with swing-up tops only hint at the possibilities. The chests may remind you of school desks. In many cases, such a simple arrangement--a box with a hinged top--can also become a simple but highly effective lap desk by itself.

Appearance

• Do not overlook the impact of appearance. A public area with a great deal of traffic generally requires a better-looking desk, which can also limit the usability features that can be included on the desk. A desk in a private area can often be far more versatile because looks are not a factor.