9 Makeshift Desks that’ll Turn Your Living Room, Bedroom, or Any Room into a Home Office

If you don’t regularly WFH, you might be yearning for a solid workspace right about now—and we mean that quite literally. Your bed and the couch will only cut it for so long before you find yourself in need of a desk or some semblance of a hard surface to work on, at the very least. While the dining table or kitchen counter prove to be viable options, they’re not the most ergonomic or adaptable, should you be sharing your space with someone else who is also working from home.

A full-scale office setup is undoubtedly ideal, but not always realistic. Whether you lack the floor space or budget for one, there are a handful of clever ways to get around it. From trays and folding desks to coffee tables (yes, really) and more in between, we rounded up nine clever desk alternatives for the perfect makeshift workspace. 

Folding desks are about as versatile as it gets: Set one up in the morning and tuck it away when the clock strikes five. This black and wood model from Wayfair keeps it nice and simple with its sleek finish, a narrow but long work surface, and a foldable frame that makes it easy to slide into the corner (or even stash under the sofa!) when you don’t need it. You could also even hang this on a wall if you want to bust out your hammer and add a hook or two to your set up.

Buy: Alviva Folding Desk, $99.99 $91.99 from Wayfair

Breakfast in bed, meet working in bed. This tray pulls double duty for those who prefer to remain mobile. Not only does it help prevent wrist or neck strain when you’re slightly horizontal, but it’s just as useful for creating an ad hoc standing desk on the kitchen counter. 

Buy: Copenhagen Breakfast Tray, $80.99 from Wayfair

Keep floors free of clutter with this versatile wall-mounted desk at which you can either sit or stand by. The top half is ideal for storing office supplies while the drop-down functionality of the bottom half makes it a prime surface for a laptop and a notebook. Special shout-out for the cork-lined doors that can double as an inspo board for all the goals you’re going to set—and accomplish!

Buy: Murray Wall-Mounted Desk, $299 from Urban Outfitters

If you haven’t heard of sofa cuffs, consider your life changed. Small but mighty, they take up virtually no extra space but still manage to provide plenty of support. This handmade slatted wood wrap can easily adapt to your sofa’s arm width and lends a sturdy surface for your laptop and morning cuppa. 

Buy: Sofa Arm Tray, $38.99 from Etsy

If you’re up for a slightly more permanent fixture, invest in a piece that can live in your space long after your WFH days. Get in on the trendy ladder look with this streamlined piece that features ample storage opportunities plus a roomy desktop to boot. 

Buy: Asterix Ladder Desk, $199.00 $159.20 from EQ3

Being stuck inside means you’re probably looking for ways to stretch your legs throughout the day. This minimalist entry console/shelving unit not only manages to sneak in a handful of storage opportunities for keys, charging cords, and bags, but it can also be used as a standing desk. 

Buy: KNOTTEN Standing Desk, $159.00 from IKEA

A lap desk is a great alternative for those who prefer—or simply can’t—be tied down to a single spot as a workspace. Affordable and adaptable, think of these as the ultimate WFH accessory. This foam-padded find is elevated by a marble-esque top and a handy slot for your phone or tablet. 

Buy: HOME BI Lap Desk, $27.99 from Amazon

This three-in-one piece champions minimalism like the best of them. Keep it as is and you’ll have a solid workspace plus a shelf underneath for your essentials. Unfold the leaf and it instantly transforms into a dining table, fit for you plus one/new coworker. 

Buy: Thao Small Space Desk, $124.99 from Wayfair

Here’s to making the most of your situation and giving your living room a revamp while you’re at it. A seemingly normal coffee table at first glance, this one actually features a pop-top that can lift to reveal storage space inside. Use the elevated surface as a makeshift desk and keep extraneous clutter at bay as well.

Buy: Industrial Storage Pop-Up Coffee Table, $599 $449.25