What Size Computer Desk Do You Need for an Alcove?

Alcoves beside a chimney breast are among the most useful spaces in a UK home, and many of them make excellent home offices. The challenge is choosing a desk that fits. Period walls are rarely straight, skirting boards and picture rails get in the way, and the depth of the chimney breast limits how far a desk can project into the room. In this guide we explain how to measure an alcove properly, including width at several heights, usable depth and the position of sockets and radiators. We then show how to turn those measurements into a desk size, how much clearance to leave either side, and when a freestanding desk works better than a fitted top or wall mounted design. We also cover chair space, shelving above the desk and lighting for a recessed workspace. With careful measuring, an alcove can hold a comfortable, tidy workstation that looks as though it was always meant to be there....