Choosing a Large Workstation: L-Desks and U-Desks

Your Guide to Understanding L & U-Shaped Desks

Do you meet with clients often? Will you be dealing with a large amount of paperwork? What kind of organization do you prefer?

If you are in the market for a larger desk or work area, there are some points of interest you need to consider before purchasing. Desks with more space are ideal if you need more desktop surface area and storage in one piece of furniture. The size of the room and other factors may limit your choices, but understanding the possibilities helps you make the best purchase and get the best use out of your space.

At Countryside Amish Furniture, we divide our large solid wood workstations into two categories: L-Shaped Desks and U-Shaped Desks.

L-Shaped Desks
An executive desk and a return are the components that make up an L-desk, or corner desk. Simply put, an L-shaped desk is a desk and a return connected in an “L” configuration.

The positioning for a return can most often be on the left or right side, depending on the particular product. Whether you choose a left or right return is determined by which side you need the workspace when sitting behind the desk (not facing the desk), or how your office layout is configured.

In other words, a left return will be on your left-hand side as you are working at your desk, and the same goes for the right return. L-desks are perfect for corners in your home or executive office space.

U-Shaped Desks
A U-shaped desk is made up of the desk, bridge, and credenza. This three piece unit forms a U-shaped configuration that wraps around in both directions.

The desk will have a finished back, since this is the view your clients will have. The credenza is located in the back, and the bridge connects the two pieces. U-desks are great for creating a working area that allows you to multi-task and move around freely.

Once again, the bridge for a U-desk can typically be constructed on either the left or right side, although the unit is usually pre-configured. This is most often determined by which side you will need the workspace when you are sitting behind the desk.

We spend a large part of our day at work; therefore, it is important that the desk area is clean, organized, and pleasing to the senses in order to create a comfortable and productive workstation.

While office desks come in all shapes and sizes, each can provide a practical purpose for a home or office. With the design scheme and room layout in mind, both an L-desk and U-desk are practical ways to save space and storage while improving workflow. Which desk works best for you?

Pictured: St. Gallen U-Shaped Desk With Hutch

Bailiegh Basham is Lead Sales & Marketing Strategist at Countryside Amish Furniture. She's been a team member since 2014. Bailiegh is deeply passionate about furniture design and home decor.