An Ideal Home guide to buying an occasional desk - Ideal Home, Britain's best-selling homes magazine

The Ideal Home guide to buying an occasional desk

Even a small space can be turned into a useful area. Whether it's an office that can be shut away at night, a workstation adaptable for the whole family or a simple correspondence desk.

Your office area doesn't have to look like one, especially if you don't use it all the time. If you're looking for a desk that won't compromise the good looks or your room here's what to consider before you buy...

What room it's for?
If you're stealing an area of the living room you'll want a desk that will blend in with the rest of your furniture. Avoid anything too 'techie', which would be better suited to a home office, and consider a bureau or desk-in-a-cupboard design that you can close to hide paperwork.

Where to put it?
Measure up to determine available space, bearing in mind you'll need to allow for opening drawers or cabinets and consider the location of power and telephone points.

What it's made from?
Look for a sturdy solid wood or metal frame to cope with the weight of office equipment.

How well it's made?
Check how smoothly drawers open, go for wood or metal instead of a flimsy plywood base and sides. Check fittings – metal is better than plastic as it won't bow or warp easily.

If it's comfortable?
Try a few desk and chair combos. You should be able to sit straight while typing with your back supported, feet flat on the floor, looking straight at the monitor, not up or down.

Take a look at the best desks available right now; check out our occasional desk shopping guide.

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