Beadboard Desks: The Ultimate Buying Guide

Setting up a workspace for homework, study and creativity is essential - and beadboard desks are exactly what you need to keep things organized and ready to go.

What is a Beadboard Desk?

Beadboard is a decorative style that makes use of wood paneling with evenly spaced grooves. This kind of paneling is most common in beach-style decor, but because it's so versatile and in-style, interior designers use it to complement all kinds of decorative styles. Beadboard's clean lines and simple elegance make it the perfect addition to a bedroom, home office space or any other room.

Beadboard desks are available with large, one-panel surfaces and as corner units, so the size and layout of your space will help you determine which style is best for you. In cozy areas where floor space is limited, a corner beadboard desk is the right choice - but in spacious rooms with plenty of real estate available, a single-paneled desk that's longer than its corner counterparts is ideal.

What to Look for in a Beadboard Desk

Most beadboard desks feature handy compartments, including storage drawers, cabinets and open shelving. The purpose your desk will serve can help you choose what you need. If you have a computer with a hard disk tower, for example, you'll need a desk with open shelving for easy storage that promotes good air flow. When the desk is primarily for homework and you'll be using a laptop rather than a desktop, you can choose one with drawers for pens and other accessories, a few shelves for books and laptop storage and plenty of open desk space on top.

Use these tips to help you choose the perfect desk:

• If you're using your desk for mostly computer work, you'll need a compartment and, if possible, built-in wiring holes.
• If you're using your desk primarily for paper-based work, you'll need shelves and cabinet space, as well as drawers for small items like pens, paperclips and other office essentials.
• If you're using your desk for multiple purposes - like some computer-based work, studying and homework - you'll probably do best with an L-shaped or corner desk that keeps part of the surface free for either.
• If you're short on space, a corner desk is the best solution. A corner desk can keep your room from looking cluttered with furniture while still serving as a great workstation.

Make sure you have enough clearance to set up your desk chair. Experts recommend leaving at least 36 inches of space behind the chair so that when you're sitting in it, there's plenty of space for others to walk behind it without disturbing you - and so that you'll have room to lean back and stretch out every so often.

You can also consider adding matching bookcases and shelves to your space to create a streamlined, professional look.

Beadboard desks are a smart style choice because they pair well with other decorative styles. They're simple and elegant, and their paneled sides and decorative grains can add a sophisticated element to your space.