Fold away desks for small spaces include wall-mounted desks, convertible console tables, and floating drop-down desks that maximize floor space when not in use.
The best fold away desk ideas transform any corner into a productive workspace while disappearing completely when you need the room back.
Wall-Mounted Fold Down Desks
Wall-mounted desks are the champions of space-saving furniture. You mount them to any wall and fold them down when you need to work.
When you’re done, they fold flat against the wall like a picture frame. Most models take up just 4-6 inches of wall depth when closed.
Murphy-Style Desk Units
Murphy desks work like Murphy beds but for your workspace. They fold down from a cabinet or shelf unit mounted on your wall.
From what I read, these units often include built-in storage for office supplies. Some even have bulletin boards or whiteboards on the inside.
Simple Hinged Wall Desks
Basic hinged desks are just a desktop attached to the wall with heavy-duty hinges. They’re the most affordable option and easiest to install yourself.
You can build one for under $50 using a piece of plywood and quality hinges. Add a folding leg bracket for extra support when the desk is down.
Convertible Furniture Solutions
Why have separate furniture pieces when one item can do multiple jobs? Convertible furniture saves space and money.
Console Table Desks
Console tables make perfect desks that don’t look like office furniture. When guests come over, you just clear off your laptop and it’s back to being a stylish side table.
Look for console tables with drawers or shelves underneath. The extra storage keeps your work supplies hidden but accessible.
Ottoman Storage Desks
Some ottomans open up to reveal a desktop inside. You flip the cushioned top over and suddenly you have a small work surface.
These work great for laptop users who need just enough space for their computer and a coffee cup. The storage inside holds cables, notebooks, and pens.
Kitchen and Living Room Integration
Your desk doesn’t need its own room. Smart placement lets you work anywhere without taking over your living space.
Kitchen Peninsula Extensions
If you have a kitchen peninsula, consider adding a fold-out extension. It creates a breakfast bar that doubles as a workspace.
Install it at the same height as your counter. When you’re cooking, fold it down. When you need to work, fold it up and grab a bar stool.
Behind-the-Sofa Solutions
That space behind your couch is perfect for a narrow fold-away desk. You can work there without blocking walking paths or conversation areas.
Install a fold-down shelf at standing desk height. It gives you a place to quickly check emails or pay bills without setting up a whole workspace.
Closet Office Conversions
Got a closet you barely use? Turn it into a fold-away office that disappears behind doors.
Reach-In Closet Offices
Remove the hanging rod from a reach-in closet and install a fold-down desk instead. Add shelving above for storage and a small light for task lighting.
When work is done, fold up the desk and close the doors. Your office completely disappears and you get your living space back.
Bi-Fold Door Offices
Bi-fold doors are perfect for closet offices because they don’t swing out into your room. They fold back on themselves and stay out of your way.
Many experts say this setup works best in bedrooms or hallways where you have consistent wall space for the closet depth.
DIY vs Store-Bought Options
Should you build your own fold-away desk or buy one ready-made? Both have benefits depending on your skills and budget.
| Option | Cost | Time | Customization |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Build | $30-100 | 4-8 hours | Complete control |
| Store-Bought | $150-500 | 1-2 hours | Limited options |
Basic DIY Materials
For a simple wall-mounted desk, you need a desktop piece, heavy-duty hinges, wall anchors, and a folding support bracket.
I researched and found that most DIY builds use 3/4-inch plywood or butcher block for the desktop. These materials are strong enough to hold laptops, books, and office supplies.
When to Buy Pre-Made
Buy pre-made if you want built-in storage, complex folding mechanisms, or don’t have tools for DIY projects.
Store-bought units often include cable management, built-in outlets, and professional finishes that are hard to achieve at home.
Installation Considerations
Before you start drilling holes, think about these practical details that make or break your fold-away desk setup.
Wall Stud Requirements
Fold-down desks need to attach to wall studs, not just drywall. A desk holding a laptop and books can weigh 50+ pounds when in use.
Use a stud finder to locate at least two studs for mounting. If studs don’t line up with your desk, use a mounting board attached to multiple studs.
Clearance Space Planning
Measure how much space your desk needs when folded down. Don’t forget to account for chair space too.
Most people need at least 30 inches of depth from the wall when the desk is open. Add another 24 inches for a chair that pushes under the desk.
Height Placement Tips
Standard desk height is 28-30 inches from the floor. Measure twice before mounting because moving wall-mounted desks is a pain.
If multiple people will use the desk, aim for 29 inches. This height works for most adults whether sitting or using a tall stool.
Storage Integration
Your fold-away desk needs storage for supplies, cables, and work materials. Plan storage that folds away too.
Hidden Compartments
Some fold-down desks have storage compartments built into the desktop itself. These keep pens, cables, and small items organized and hidden.
You can create this yourself by routing out sections of a thick desktop and adding hinged covers.
Vertical Wall Storage
Add shelves or pegboard above your fold-down desk for books, binders, and supplies you use regularly.
Keep frequently used items at eye level when you’re seated at the desk. Store occasional items higher up.
Cable Management
Plan how you’ll handle power cables and internet connections before installation. Cables can make fold-away desks clunky to open and close.
Consider running cables through the wall or using adhesive cable channels that stay attached to the wall when the desk folds up.
Multi-Purpose Design Ideas
The best fold-away desks serve multiple purposes so they earn their place in your small space.
Desk-to-Dining Combinations
Size your fold-down desk to work as a small dining table for two. This gives you workspace during the day and dinner space at night.
Make sure the height works for both dining chairs and office chairs. Bar height (36 inches) often works well with adjustable stools.
Hobby and Craft Surfaces
Fold-away desks make great craft tables, gift-wrapping stations, or hobby workspaces. The key is choosing a surface material that handles different activities.
I found that laminate tops work well because they resist scratches and clean easily. Avoid glass tops if you’ll do crafts or heavy work.
Conclusion
Fold away desks transform small spaces by giving you a real workspace that disappears when you don’t need it. Whether you choose a wall-mounted design, convertible furniture, or a closet office setup, the right fold-away desk lets you work comfortably without sacrificing your living space. Start with measuring your available space and thinking about how you’ll use the desk, then pick the solution that fits your budget and DIY comfort level.
What weight can a fold-down wall desk safely hold?
Most properly installed fold-down desks can safely hold 50-75 pounds when mounted to wall studs with appropriate hardware. This covers a laptop, books, and typical office supplies, but check manufacturer specifications for your specific desk model.
How much wall space do I need for a fold-away desk?
You need at least 36 inches of wall width for a usable desk surface, plus 30 inches of floor depth when folded down. Add another 24 inches for chair space, making the total footprint about 54 inches deep when in use.
Can I install a fold-down desk without hitting electrical wires?
Yes, but locate electrical wires before drilling by using a wire detector tool. Most electrical wires run horizontally 12-18 inches above outlets, so mount your desk hardware away from these areas or choose a different wall location.
Do fold-away desks work well for daily computer use?
Fold-away desks work great for daily laptop use and light computer work. For desktop computers with multiple monitors, consider the setup and breakdown time daily, as this might become inconvenient for everyday use.
What’s the smallest space that can accommodate a functional fold-away desk?
A functional fold-away desk needs just 24 inches of wall width and can work in spaces as narrow as 4 feet deep. This creates enough room for the desk surface and a simple chair, perfect for studio apartments or small bedrooms.
