Dining Tables that can Double as Desks

It’s been over four years since I made over my home office and most of the questions I receive on the room are centered around my desk — where I got it, do I still like it… The truth is, my desk isn’t actually a desk; it’s a dining table. Would I do it again? In a heartbeat. When I was looking for desks, I wanted something big – something that I could “create” and “task” on, spread out on, and have more surface area than that of a simple computer/writer’s desk. Most executive desks I liked came with a high price tag and few still seemed to have all the room I really wanted. If you have yet to find a “desk”, switching focus to a dining table may just be what you need. Today, from traditional to modern, from budget to investment, I’m rounding up dining tables that can double as desks.

*Posts on KelleyNan.com may contain affiliate links. Click HERE for full disclosure.*

DINING TABLES THAT DOUBLE AS DESKS

I’ve had readers who’ve asked if it bothers me not having drawers actually built into my desk. The answer- not at all. I have plenty of surface space to keep my most used implements accessible and within arm’s reach and have more than enough storage space with my built-ins and closet. (See my office makeover reveal in its entirety HERE).

Using a dining room table as an office desk in your home office

Available Sources: Chair | Pendant Light | Cabinet Pulls (in Golden Champagne) | Rug | Rattan Baskets | Roman Shades | White Document Boxes | White Magazine Files | White Larger File Boxes | Chair Pillow | Long Metal Tray | Desk (Restoration Hardware Dining Table)

What about the cords? Well, I actually posted on that very topic- you can find the details on how I hide the cords with my desk being in the center of the room HERE. The standard height for desks and dining tables usually fall within the same range – 28″ to 30″; but key is finding the right chair. If you go this route, you will likely need an adjustable chair intended for a desk as most dining chairs will likely be too short. I scored my chair (HERE) at an outlet but after the comfort it’s given over the past several years is 100% worth the investment if you are in your office for hours at a time. Make sure to check table heights; the taller you are, the taller the table/desk you can probably get away with. For those shorties out there, as an FYI, I’m just over 5’2″ and am totally comfortable in my setup.

Be sure to pay attention to the length and the width when you are choosing your new desk. Before I committed to mine, we taped off the measurements on the floor using painter’s tape. I wanted to make sure there was ample room on either side, plenty of room to roll my chair back and forth, and it helped me determine the proper size area rug.

Another benefit of broadening your search to dining tables that can double as desks is you can potentially save a lot. You will “feel it” more with poorly constructed desks because of the drawer functionality. They can fall apart. Tables have more leeway when it comes to going for something budget-friendly; if it isn’t the most top-of-the-line construction, it’s ok! You are using it for its surface, not for the functionality of moving parts like drawers and cabinets. While executive desks can set you back thousands, and some of these tables are still at a higher price point, some are under $300. Several also come in different sizes, finishes, and colors, so if you are curious about a style, be sure to visit the source for additional options. You can click/tap on the corresponding numbers below the graphic to head straight to each individual table.

Dining Tables that can Double as Desks

one | two | threefour | five | six | seven | eight | nine | ten | eleven | twelve

Dining Table Desk Accessories

FAVORITE OVERSIZED TRAYS

With such a large desk space, I also opted for a large tray to corral all of my desk goodies and essentials. Here are a few large-scale trays that will make a statement and keep you organized.

Oversized trays to corral and organize office supplies

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

For more office posts, decor tips, and room reveals, subscribe to my emails at the bottom of the post to be the first in exclusive news and content, and to get the latest in projects delivered straight to your inbox!

OTHER POSTS YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN

A DESK DINING TABLE

Share this:
Kelley Nan headshot

FOLLOW KN ON SOCIAL

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

13 Comments

  1. 2.7.18
    Brenda Botbyl-Velez said:

    Love the article! Came at a good time! I’m wanting to update my sewing table in my laundry room and have been contemplating something like what you’re suggesting! I want it to be big enough to spread out fabrics! Thanks for the article!
    On a side note…I’m looking for a large, light colored tray for my coffee table. I’m needing one about 24×24. I like the one I’ve seen on your coffee table in previous pictures. Can you share where you got your living room/coffee table tray?
    Thanks!

    • 2.7.18

      Hi, brenda! I am so glad! The one on my coffee table is more like 30×30 and was purchased at ZGallerie a while ago 😉

  2. 2.8.18
    Kim Stone said:

    Kelly, nice blog you posted. I liked the #11 & #13 table as a desk and #4 tray.

  3. 2.8.18

    Kelley,
    I had read your first post and loved how you talked about hiding the cords because that was always a concern of mine. I’m glad you hit on the drawer storage because I had wondered about that too. I have a small desk right now, but it only has a couple little cubby areas and no drawers so I guess I’m already at that point too. I LOVE number 13. That is to die for. I’m going to seriously give it some thought. With a bigger table I’m sure it would work just fine.
    Thanks,
    Jenn

  4. 3.27.18
    Jennifer said:

    Hi Kelley,
    Can you provide the dimensions of the room?

    • 3.27.18

      Hi, Jennifer! I am unsure of the exact dimensions but if it helps, I believe the rug is 11×14

  5. 3.12.20
    luke said:

    Hi there. Would you be able to provide the details of the exact dining room table that is pictured in the room?

    • 3.24.20

      Hi there! It is from Restoration Hardware (I scored it at the outlet) – 17TH C. MONASTERY RECTANGULAR DINING TABLE in the gray acacia finish. I hope that helps!

  6. 12.10.20
    sheela Kavuri said:

    I am looking for study room ideas using my oval shaped dining table.

  7. 11.11.23
    Connor said:

    Hi, I am wondering where you found that desk? My wife loves it and is looking for one just like it. Any help you can give me will be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much. 🙂