While it won't replace a full-blown home office, a desk in the kitchen can provide a handy and functional spot to manage everyday tasks. A well-organized kitchen desk is not out of reach. Here are some tips to make it work for you.
1. Take Stock
If you position your kitchen desk near a frequently used door to your house, it's going to collect keys, cell phones and mail. Set out a basket for keys, a power strip for cell phone chargers and a holder for mail, and designate a drawer for essentials like batteries, scissors, pens and paper. Keep the desk surface free for a laptop for looking up recipes, a spot to pay bills or a central phone station.
2. Comfort Zone
You'll need a minimum counter span of 24 inches to accommodate seating at your desk. Doubling that will greatly increase your comfort, and you'll be more likely to use the desk as a workspace. There must also be adequate push-back space for the chair or stool. A clearance of 36 inches is recommended. It's important to be able to tuck the seat completely under the desk so no one bumps into it.
3. Work It
A mix of open and closed storage lets you display some items and protect others from kitchen grease and grime. Allot shelves for cookbooks, and a file drawer for warranties, owner's manuals and receipts. Don't forget to add a phone jack, a cable or Internet connection, electrical outlets, lighting, a space for a trash can, perhaps a paper shredder, a printer for your computer and the supplies to go with it.