Smartly designed desks to help you build a home office without sacrificing space.

Moving is supposed to be one of the most stressful experiences in a person’s life, but as I count down the days until I get access to my new space (one month to go!), I’m focusing less on the hassles of booking movers and sourcing boxes and figuring out how exactly to sneak out of the apartment without paying strata the move-out fee, and more on the opportunity that awaits to redecorate.Specifically, I’m daydreaming about a fresh home office setup. A new floor plan means my current desk—a long, slim table that fits perfectly under our bedroom window now—just won’t work with the wall angles and closet-placement of the new place…so I’ve got a perfect excuse to shop for an alternative. On the hunt for a compact desk that can work tucked into a living room nook, I’ve uncovered some serious gems. Now, my biggest stress is actually figuring out which one to choose.

6 Desks Just Right for Small Spaces

1. Climb the Ladder

EQ3’s Asterix Ladder desk ($259) is almost just as wide as our computer monitor, so not an inch of desktop space will be wasted—but the shelves up top still provide a spot to stow books and documents within easy reach. eq3.com2. Slim and Trim

The Sergio desk ($299) from Structube features angled mid-century-modern-inspired legs, a single drawer and a fresh white tabletop that’s deep enough to accommodate a keyboard but shallow enough (less than 24 inches) to leave some breathing room. structube.com

3. Going Clear

In a small space, visual flow is everything—which is why acrylic and glass pieces are great additions, adding function without any visual weight. This Peekaboo acrylic console from Cb2 ($899) would create an unobtrusive workspace with a contemporary edge. cb2.com

4. Wall-Mounted Wonder

The Stockholm desk (because there are so many customization options, price is available on request only) from Resource Furniture mounts directly onto the wall. Float on. resourcefurniture.com

5. The Hideaway

The vibrant orange finish isn’t for everyone, but if you don’t mind a hit of colour, Ikea’s PS 2014 Secretary desk ($249) is a dream; when you’re done with your emails for the day, just fold up the door to tuck your computer out of sight. ikea.ca

6. Oval Office

The marble top and teak finish make the West Elm Penelope Mini desk ($420) both on-trend and timeless, but it’s the compact shape (which still manages to fit a deep drawer) that makes this one a perfect fit for the modern condo. westelm.com

How do you create workspaces without sacrificing space? Let us know in the comments!