The Top 58 Home Office Desk Ideas – Interior Home and Design
“The brain is a wonderful organ; it starts working the moment you get up in the morning and does not stop until you get into the office.” – Robert Frost
Staying productive is easier and more rewarding when you have a designated workspace. All you need is a desk to get started.
Check out these home office desk ideas to improve your work experience and level up your home decor in the process.
1. Glass Top Home Office Desk Ideas
Glass-top desks are a great home office idea, especially if you want the room to look as large and open as possible. Since a glass desk is mostly transparent, it creates the illusion of less bulk than a traditional desk.
Source: @alchemyfinehome via Instagram
Source: @athomewithdr_a via Instagram
Silver accents and neutral colors will give your office desk a contemporary appeal. Any supportive chair or bench will work — don’t be afraid to try one with a unique shape.
To create a mid-century modern-inspired office, go with a warm color scheme and plush details. Accent your glass-top desk with gold, brass, or wood accessories. As for seating, pick an upholstery style that stands out against the rest of your decor.
2. Space-Saving Home Office Desk Ideas
Many people neglect to buy a proper desk because the room it’s in will serve multiple purposes. While a classic secretary desk offers a great way to tidy up when you’re not working, it doesn’t save much space. Instead, consider a wall-mounted standing desk that folds up.
Source: @engelsmahomes via Instagram
Source: @interior_architect_and_design via Instagram
Source: @muradwoodcraft via Instagram
Source: @sherwoodwoodfurniture via Instagram
If you have a spare room with an empty closet or awkward nook, you might be looking at the perfect place to tuck a desk.
Your choice of desk is just one space-saving decision. Look for ways to shrink your office area when it’s not in use. For example, your office chair should fit snugly underneath your desk.
3. Minimalist Home Office Desk Ideas
Does a messy desk stress you out? Or do you want to create a home office space that doesn’t detract from the rest of the room’s furniture? Either way, a minimalist desk will set your mind at ease.
Source: @_behindthebluedoor via Instagram
Source: @coin_bureau via Instagram
Source: @lavender_julep via Instagram
Source: @skovby.furniture via Instagram
Source: @summersatnoon via Instagram
Source: @tp_homeofficedecor via Instagram
Designing a minimalist workspace starts with the desk itself. Look for a standard writing desk with zero ornamentation. Keep the desktop clean and free of accessories — consider setting up your printer or other bulky items separately in a closet.
Organization is crucial to maintaining a minimalist space. If possible, choose a desktop with a built-in drawer underneath for a little extra storage. A wall-mounted shelf or pegboard can help make up for the lack of cabinet doors below.
4. White Home Office Desk Ideas
If you’re someone who thrives in a clean work environment, white office decor is sure to be your cup of tea. White desks are easy to find in all different styles. If you want to reimagine a desk you already own, a coat of paint is all you’ll need.
Source: @casa_interiordesigns via Instagram
Source: @natashavistasdesign via Instagram
Source: @ocdbyfoomz via Instagram
White goes with everything, but too much color will negate your clean design choices. Use jewel-toned metals as your accent shades, focusing on furniture hardware, light fixtures, and wall decor.
If all-white walls are too dull, don’t reach for wallpaper or a bucket of paint. Decals are an excellent way to add dimension and some color to the space without sacrificing your white walls.
5. Small Home Office Desk Ideas
A small desk can be just as functional as a large one, especially since most of today’s work happens on a computer.
Source: @georgantas.design via Instagram
Source: @housetohomebeverley via Instagram
Source: @minihomeoffice via Instagram
Source: @ruby.aimee_ via Instagram
If your need for a small home office desk is due to limited floor space, look for furniture that is tall rather than wide. You can add your own DIY desk expansion with mounted shelves or cabinets.
6. Wood Home Office Desk Ideas
Solid wood furniture is quite durable and, more or less, timeless. Restoring an old table or desk is a great way to get gorgeous home office furniture on a budget.
Source: @badenkova.home_ via Instagram
Source: @betterbonafurniture via Instagram
Source: @littlegreenarrows via Instagram
Source: @mrmasucci via Instagram
Source: @mylittleshop_kingston via Instagram
Source: @og_or via Instagram
Source: @operationtudorrevival via Instagram
Source: @sterlingfurniture via Instagram
Source: @windlanddesign via Instagram
Remember that natural wood comes in varying shades. An unstained wood desk will give off a much different air than one stained burgundy. Likewise, plywood or reclaimed shiplap look much different than polished pine or mahogany.
7. Modern Home Office Desk Ideas
Modern architecture is all about clean lines. You also see a lot of fun geometric shapes in modern decor. If modern decor inspires you, you can easily mimic these trends in your home office design.
Source: @handysandco via Instagram
Source: @the_contemporary_apartment via Instagram
Keep an eye out for furniture featuring unusual cutouts or unique desk leg designs. Since modern desks don’t offer much in the way of integrated storage, you may need to invest in a matching set of shelves or turn to storing things in a closet.
Use green potted plants and stylish light fixtures to accessorize your modern office desk. Try doing the unexpected with a wall- or ceiling-mounted lamp. Fill empty wall space with a sleek mirror or oversized canvas.
8. Rustic Home Office Desk Ideas
Whether you go for an elegant or industrial version of rustic decor, pay close attention to your desk’s finish. Natural wood is the best material for this style. However, you’ll want to choose furniture with a white-washed or distressed finish.
Source: @1904square via Instagram
Source: @bortonedesign via Instagram
Source: @designed_by_gerard via Instagram
Source: @junk_to_funky via Instagram
Source: @lifeinspirationsbyangela via Instagram
Source: @lisayoderrealestate via Instagram
Live-edge wood is another option that will add a ton of character to a rustic office design. Stick with cast iron hardware throughout the space. If you go with an upholstered chair, pick one with contrasting steel tacks along the edges.
9. Custom Home Office Desk Ideas
If your home office doubles as a separate living space, nothing is more valuable than a desk that truly fits the room. While the best solution is a custom or DIY desk, you can find plenty of space-saving designs in ready-made furniture.
Source: @annemiedekooning via Instagram
Source: @hometothe5ofus via Instagram
Source: @sparkplug_designs_ via Instagram
Source: @vassofishes via Instagram
You probably won’t find a Murphy desk in your neighborhood furniture store, but this desk design is ingenious. Murphy desks mount to the wall and fold away when not in use. You won’t find a better option for a compact, convertible office space.
Shelving is another excellent way to maximize functionality in your home office. You can use these shelves for storage or as a way to free your work space from bulky electronics.
10. Elegant Home Office Desk Ideas
Just because a home office is functional doesn’t mean it can’t also be dripping in elegance. An office space that looks great can even help motivate you to be productive and keep everything well-organized.
Source: @keepitsimplecoach via Instagram
You can find elegant desk designs that fit all types of decor. Whether you go for something modern, contemporary, or classic, look for high-quality hardware and other small details that will make your finished office really shine.
Skip the utilitarian office chair in favor of something more elegant. Opt for a design made with leather or a plush upholstery fabric.
11. Workstation Home Office Desk Ideas
With multiple monitors, computer accessories, and printed documents, having a dedicated workstation sounds pretty great. But you might already have a workstation desk setup without even realizing it.
Source: @itravelwithmel via Instagram
Source: @keepitsimplecoach via Instagram
Source: @rachelfantastic via Instagram
Workstation-style desks hold everything you need in one place. In the case of a home office, this usually means things like a phone, printer, and at least one computer.
True workstation desks feature a separate nesting piece that expands for a larger work surface. If you want to convert your regular desk, be on the lookout for a filing cabinet or side table to fill this role.
12. Simple Home Office Desk Ideas
Beautiful home design doesn’t need to be overly complicated. This is especially true for a home office, where keeping things simple can lead to a more productive and relaxing space.
Source: @aboldblondie via Instagram
Source: @dundasvespagirl via Instagram
Source: @linemor78 via Instagram
Even the most basic furniture can come to life with vibrant hues. Choose one or two bright accent colors to highlight while keeping the rest of the room neutral.
The hardest part of simplistic decor is the fight against clutter. Commit yourself to the belief that less is more when it comes to office accessories. If an item can’t stow away in a drawer or closet, do you really need it?
13. Two-Person Home Office Desk Ideas
Working solo or as a team, there are many scenarios where two people must share an office space. To pull this off, you’ll need to make a few adjustments to your desk setup.
Source: @arqbarbaraestrella via Instagram
Source: @dodelinedesign via Instagram
Source: @minidecomuebles via Instagram
Choose a symmetrical desk with plenty of drawers and cabinets. If two people share a home office for work, the last thing you want is to mix up important documents or supplies. Get ahead of organization mishaps with divided storage and labels.
Assume that two people will be using the desk at all times. This means double the lamps, double the outlet access, and double the chairs. Not only will this improve functionality, but symmetrical designs are super pleasing to the eye.
14. Corner Home Office Desk Ideas
There are few home office designs that save space quite like a corner desk. This is also the best way to keep all of your tools and documents within easy reach — no more getting up from your chair every two minutes.
Source: @analuisai via Instagram
Source: @diy_dream_home via Instagram
Source: @themindfulislander via Instagram
For extra storage, hang floating shelves above your desk. You can also use these shelves to display additional decor. For those days when multitasking is a must (or to make the space dual-purposed), mount a tablet or TV overhead.
15. Industrial Home Office Desk Ideas
If your goal is to curate a stylish yet masculine office space, industrial decor should definitely be on your radar. These trends work especially well in a room with exposed plumbing or ductwork.
Source: @caminohome via Instagram
There are two subtypes of industrial design you can turn to for inspiration: Urban-inspired design (which most people think of when it comes to industrial trends) and rustic-inspired design.
For either of these aesthetics, choose a desk that is simple in both shape and style. Look for furniture made of distressed wood and cast iron-finished metal. A leather task chair will contrast nicely against the industrial elements in the room.
16. Executive Home Office Desk Ideas
While not ideal for a small space, executive desks are both attractive and highly functional. With an executive home desk, you’ll never need to worry about having too little desk space or being overwhelmed by clutter.
Source: @ericcopper via Instagram
To stay true to the executive office aesthetic, place your main desk in the center of the room. Frame the desk with coordinating cabinets for added storage space.
If the room allows, pair your executive desk with shelving and additional desk space on the back wall. If not, elevate your home office decor with a large piece of artwork or gilded mirror behind your chair.
17. L-Shaped Home Office Desk Ideas
Even if you have the luxury of an entire room dedicated to your home office setup, it’s important to choose a desk that maximizes your functional space.
Source: @annabeestudio via Instagram
Source: @thecarpentryshopco via Instagram
With this style of desk, you can nearly double your workspace without taking up much more square footage than a regular computer desk. An L-shaped desk also offers plenty of extra drawer and cabinet space for your must-have office supplies.
If you don’t have the budget for brand new office furniture, you can create a DIY desk that mimics this style. Simply place a cabinet or table of similar height next to your desk and you’ll instantly have more working space.
18. Black Home Office Desk Ideas
For a simple, contemporary home office, go with a black desk. While sleek desks will give off a modern aesthetic, you can also opt for one made of black-stained wood for something more elegant.
Source: @studiomitchell via Instagram
Pair your black desk with neutral colors — white will provide the greatest contrast. You can warm up your home office design with potted houseplants and natural wood elements. Gold hardware will add a pop of luxury. Invest in a velvet or leather desk chair to finish off the look.
Home Office Desk FAQs
In a professional setting, it makes the most sense for your desk to face the door. There are benefits to this layout in a home office, too, but it’s not always practical for the space.
Placing your desk against a window is a great option, especially if said window overlooks your backyard or front door. You can enjoy a scenic view, some fresh air, and be aware of the goings-on outside your office space, too.
Neat and tidy office decor is a top priority. Choose items that would be appropriate in a corporate setting. Also, be sure to include extra seating for clients either opposite your desk chair or in a separate area.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
With cellphones so ubiquitous, your watch choice can be less about telling time and more about personal style. However, a watch is not ‘just’ a watch. For example, the vast majority are made for right-handed people, but a select few cater to the lefties among us. There is a wide range in functionality and size.
The wristwatch is also one of the few socially acceptable accessories for men, so why not have a small selection? If you’re not cashing a CEO’s paycheck just yet, here are the top 28 most handsome watches for men that retail for under $500.
Got a bigger budget? Then check out our guide to the best men’s watches under $1000 instead.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
1. Tommy Hilfiger Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
Check Price
If you like the feel of a pliable, non-metal band but aren’t comfortable with genuine leather, this watch comes equipped with a handsome synthetic band. At 46mm in diameter, this watch is perfect for men of smaller stature, as it will not overpower your hand or make it look like you’re wearing your father’s watch. With bold Arabic numerals, a stainless steel case, and classic styling, this watch is an outstanding choice for an everyday watch and the man on a budget.
2. Nordgreen Pioneer – Black Dial
Check Price
Get 15% off using the discount code NEXTL at checkout
Not everyone has an endless amount of cash to drop on a luxury timepiece. If you’re money-conscious but want something high-end, then why not consider the Nordgreen Pioneer.
An inspired take on a classic Chronograph, Nordgreen celebrates the Danish with what they call a timepiece “that captures the sustainable future.” Available in various dial colors from blue, black, and white. There’s even the choice of three case colors – gunmetal, silver, and rose gold. A perfect addition to the collection of any watch enthusiast.
3. Fossil Grant Brown Leather Watch
This lovely offering by Fossil features slim Roman numeral hour markers and delicate cut-out hands. The casing is stainless steel and is water-resistant to 165 feet, making it a great dive watch. The band is made of supple, soft calfskin leather and uses a buckle closure.
Of course, this timepiece also comes with the generous 11-year warranty and it’s own fun tin. This watch oozes class and is great for nearly every occasion in your life.
4. Citizen Sport Stainless Steel Men’s Watch With Brown Leather Band
If you don’t want to deal with changing out a battery in a digital watch, this watch is powered by either natural or indoor lighting. The mineral crystal face and stainless steel case make this watch water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for swimmers and snorkelers.
Handsome and utilitarian, this is a great watch for everyday wear. It’s one of the best watches for men who are always on the go.
5. Fossil Men’s Machine Chronograph Silicone Watch
Check Price
This watch was designed with the active man in mind. The knurled silicone band stands up to sweat and oils without issue, and the timepiece itself is water-resistant to 165 feet.
The patterned bezel and quality craftsmanship of the black dial is excellent, as is to be expected from a Fossil watch. It even comes in the iconic and collectible tin!
6. Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Watch
Check Price
This men’s watch features Japanese quartz movement that charges itself indoors or out when exposed to light, making it a great choice for those who don’t want to change out the battery too often. The stitched canvas strap is soft against your skin and will wick away moisture, while the mineral crystal face stands up to the rigors of your everyday life.
Water-resistant to 330 feet, this dive watch is a classic and simple design you’ll be proud of for years to come.
7. Invicta Pro Diver Chronograph Men’s Watch
Check Price
Another gorgeous offering by Invicta, this watch features a bold design with a slightly nautical feel to it. It will look at home whether you’re wearing a business suit or are going for a dive of less than 660 feet. This piece is also covered by a one-year warranty as a matter of course. The luminosity feature and magnified date window make it a great choice if you work or play in low light.
If you want something that looks like a Tag Heuer but without the luxury watch brand price tag, this is a good option!
8. Casio Edifice Multi-Function Men’s Watch
Check Price
This watch has three sub-dials for 12 hour, 60 minute and 60-second displays, in addition to the standard time. It also features a fold-over, push-down clasp on the stainless strap, keeping it secure throughout your activities. If you’re looking for a classy timepiece that shrieks sophistication, this is a great choice.
9. Fossil Machine Three Hand Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
Check Price
This quality watch is a chameleon piece. It looks at home as a dress watch riding below the cuff of your best suit, and it also looks great paired with jeans and a t-shirt. Backed by Fossil’s 11-year warranty as a matter of course and beautifully crafted, this smoke-colored piece is guaranteed to become the go-to accessory for nearly every occasion.
10. MVMT Watches Black Face Men’s Watch
Check Price
If you like the look of a simple watch, this minimalist offering from MVMT is right up your alley. With just a plain black face, tick marks to denote the hours and a single date window, there is nothing overdone or extravagant about this design. The is understated and suited to the simple design. It’s definitely a classy, low-key piece for the budget-conscious.
11. Timex Weekender Watch
Check Price
If you’re looking for a fun watch to pair with casual outfits, this is a great option. The band is blue and yellow woven nylon, and the face features both civilian and military timekeeping. An Indiglo night light is also included. This watch is water-resistant to 99 feet, meaning it can withstand splashes of water or exposure to rain but you won’t want to submerge it.
12. PUMA Ultrasize Black Sport Men’s Watch
Check Price
Boasting a 50mm diameter, this piece is perfect for the large-framed man or one who likes to wear his accessories oversized. A true fashion statement, this sports watch comes in eight different colors schemes to match your favorite hues.
Do be aware, however, that the dial knob is configure for left-handed men!
13. Timex Easy Reader Men’s Watch
Check Price
Another dress watch designed with the older gentleman in mind, this watch features a white dial with generously sized numerals that do not appear comical to the casual observer.
It’s also an excellent choice if you take your contacts out at night and still want to be able to check the time. With classic lines and a simple white face, the watch would not be out of place at any casual gathering. It comes with Timex’s one-year warranty at no additional charge.
14. Fossil Nate Men’s Chronograph Watch
Check Price
For men who like a more gritty, industrial feel to their accessories, this Fossil watch is right on point. The bezel is gear-edged and the face is utilitarian black and gray. Water-resistant to 165 feet, this watch is a great choice if you like your adornments to be understated yet add visual interest.
It’s definitely a stand-out piece, for those who would take notice!
15. Timex Expedition Field Chronograph Men’s Watch
Check Price
Featuring an indigo night light, tachymeter, a date window and a buckle closure, this watch is perfect for men who like to work or play outdoors. It is also water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for snorkeling or swimming.
You won’t want to wear it for diving, however. With classic, black styling and a genuine crystal face, this is a timepiece that will stand the test of time in both form and function.
16. Seiko 5 Automatic Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
Check Price
This Seiko automatic watch has all the bells and whistles you need, but presents it all in a plain and strikingly attractive manner. It features a date window in either English or Spanish, sword-shaped hands, a sweeping second hand and a mineral dial window. This is a great option for the man on the go. The canvas strap can be removed and hand-washed if sweat or other odors become an issue.
This watch is not water-resistant, so you’ll only want to wear it when you won’t be popping by the pool for a swim!
17. Invicta Pro Diver Collection Silver-Tone Men’s Watch
Check Price
For those who prefer an all-metal timepiece, the stainless steel Invicta fits the bill nicely. It has a similar aesthetic to a Tag Heuer watch, but at a more affordable price. Equipped with a unilateral bezel and removable links, the band can be customized to fit your wrist perfectly. The face is flame fusion crystal and features a magnifier to highlight the date window.
It’s also water-resistant to 660 feet. If you’re looking for a gorgeous watch that stands up to an active lifestyle, this is an excellent choice.
18. Seiko Men’s Adventure-Solar Classic Casual Watch
Check Price
This Seiko watch derives its power from either natural or indoor light and can withstand water depths of up to 330 feet. The supple brown leather strap and timeless brushed steel give this piece an attractive look, and the alarm chronograph is easy to set.
If you’re looking for a watch that can serve as a backup for your wake-up call while traveling, stand up to the elements and look awesome, this casual wrist watch is a winner.
19. Nautica Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Blue Resin Band
Check Price
Featuring a plethora of options and a smart, snappy style, this a great casual watch with a eye-catching blue dial. The hardy resin band is adjustable, and the face is protected by a mineral window. Whether for work or play, this bold blue design is handsome and substantial on the wrist. It comes with Nautica’s five-year warranty at no additional charge.
20. Citizen Sport Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Black Leather Band
Check Price
The black, red and white face of this piece eschews the traditional two-tone color scheme so often employed in other watches, and the contrasting stitching on the band adds creative flair. It comes backed by Citizen’s five-year warranty and will compliment any casual outfit.
21. Alessi Tic15 Analog Display Analog Quartz Black Men’s Watch
Check Price
Another not-quite-round offering on our list, the curved square casing of this piece gives it instant visual appeal. Sleek and clean, this unfussy design will be a compliment to almost any occasion. It has quartz movement and is water-resistant to 99 feet, making it a great choice for everyday wear.
22. Invicta 1517 I Force Collection Watch
Check Price
Another on our list designed for left-handed men, this watch is something special. Water-resistant to 330 feet and featuring oversize stenciled numbers and a sub dial, this watch is great for any casual outfit. The cloth band is extremely durable and stands up to dirt, sweat and grime.
If you lead an active lifestyle, this watch will be right at home in your collection.
23. TRIWA Blue Steel Nevil Canvas Watch
Check Price
This watch comes in a whopping 14 color variations, all of them beautiful. You may decide to add more than one to your collection!
Designed in Sweden, this watch features Japanese quartz movement, a stainless steel casing and a strap made from Tärnsjö organic leather. TRIWA, which stands for Transforming the Industry of Watches, believes in the artistry of fine jewelry and it shows in their product.
24. Victorinox Swiss Army Alliance Watch
Check Price
Another fine dress watch from the makers of the Swiss Army knife, this watch is emblazoned with the internally recognized cross and shield emblem. It has no sub-dials, tachymeter or other add-ons to detract from its simple and appealing style.
This watch will be at home with all but the most formal of outfits and carries a two-year warranty.
25. Ingersoll Automatic Stainless Steel Bull Run Watch
Check Price
Again, Ingersoll remakes the classics and brings them into the present day. With a highly polished stainless steel casing, two sub-dials, a date aperture and arrow-shaped hands, this quartz watch is beautiful.
The band features contrasting stitching on the fine-grain leather, adding depth and detail to the workmanship. This watch will compliment any casual occasion and can be relied upon for years to come.
26. Tissot Quickster Chronograph Black Leather Men’s Watch
Check Price
Made with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and Swiss automatic movement, this watch is a smart and utilitarian choice. If you’re looking for a solid Swiss watch that isn’t flashy, this is an excellent option. It’s also guaranteed for two years.
27. Seiko Sport Solar Men’s Beige Watch
Check Price
Are you getting tired of squinting down at your watch or holding it closer and closer to your face? Don’t worry, we all get a bit nearsighted with age, especially over the age of 40.
If you’re not quite ready for reading glasses or a comically huge watch, this is a great choice from Seiko. The numerals, indices and luminous hands stand out in stark white against a black background, and the numerals are generous in size. It’s a perfect casual watch for the older gentleman.
28. Seiko Men’s 5 Watch Blue Canvas Band
Check Price
This simple and affordable watch has a clean, crisp aesthetic to it and doesn’t bog down its design with a ton of bells and whistles. It’s time and date, end of.
If you want a watch for casual wear, this Seiko is a shoo-in. The band is forgiving and comfortable against your wrist, and it’s blue color will likely compliment your existing wardrobe. The price is also extremely affordable.
29. Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Stainless Steel Watch With Brown Leather Band
Check Price
Featuring the Hilfiger logo at the three o’clock position, this wrist watch is a statement piece. It is a bright, shiny stainless steel work of art that you’ll be proud to wear at all but the most stuffy of workplaces. The calfskin leather band uses a buckle closure and the date window is beside the logo at three o’clock.
If you’re a fan of Tommy clothing, cologne or luggage, you can complete your look with this stunning accessory.
