Measure your corner the right way
Before comparing desk sizes, you need accurate corner measurements. A few minutes with a tape measure will save you hours of frustration later.
Start by measuring from the corner along each wall to see how much linear space you actually have. Note any skirting boards, power points, windows or fixed shelving that could reduce the usable area. For most Australian homes and offices, common wall runs range from 1200 mm to 2400 mm, which strongly influences what desk configuration will fit comfortably.
Next, measure the depth you can afford to use without blocking walkways or doors. Standard desk depths sit between 600 mm and 800 mm; going deeper than that can make a small room feel cramped. If you are planning on pairing your desk with storage or Office & Meeting Tables, allow extra room so doors and drawers can open freely.
Finally, take note of where natural light and power outlets sit. Positioning the return (the shorter side of the L) near a window can create a pleasant working area, while keeping the longer side closer to power points can minimise cable clutter. These small details affect not only comfort but also which specific models in ranges like Corner Office Desks will be practical for your layout.
Common L-shaped desk dimensions and what they suit
L-shaped desks come in a handful of popular size combinations. Matching these to your space and work style is more important than chasing the biggest option.
Compact designs often start around 1200 x 1500 mm or 1200 x 1600 mm, with one side longer than the other. These are ideal for smaller studies, bedrooms and apartments, especially when browsing ranges such as Home Office Desks and Student Desks. They give enough room for a laptop, a monitor and some paperwork without dominating the room.
Mid-size layouts typically sit in the 1500 x 1800 mm to 1600 x 2000 mm range. This sweet spot suits most professionals who juggle multiple screens, reference material and peripherals. It is also a common footprint in L-Shaped Desks and Single Person Workstations, because it balances generous workspace with efficient use of floor area.
For executives, designers or anyone handling large plans and documents, larger options like 1800 x 2100 mm and beyond provide serious elbow room. Many Manager Desks and premium Corner Workstations fall into this category. Just remember to allow at least 800–1000 mm of free space behind your chair so you can move comfortably without banging into walls or storage units.
Depth, legroom and ergonomics
Choosing dimensions is not just about what fits – it is about how it feels to use every day. Depth and legroom have a big impact on comfort and posture.
A depth of 700–750 mm on the main side usually gives enough distance between your eyes and monitor while leaving space for a keyboard, documents and a bit of personal clutter. The return side can sometimes be shallower (around 600 mm) if you mainly use it for paperwork or a printer. If you plan to use a sit-stand setup, check out Height Adjustable Workstations that retain good depth in both seated and standing positions.
Legroom matters just as much as surface size. Look for designs where support panels and storage units are set back enough to avoid knocking your knees. In ranges like Corner Office Desks and L-Shaped Desks, check product images and dimensions for clear space under the corner and main side, especially if you are taller than average or prefer a larger ergonomic chair.
Ergonomically, you want your keyboard and mouse directly in front of you, not out on the return where your shoulders twist all day. Aim to position your primary working zone on the longer side of the desk, using the return mainly for secondary tasks like writing or storing documents. If you frequently collaborate or spread out materials, pairing your setup with nearby Office & Meeting Tables can keep your main workstation clear and comfortable.
Matching desk size to room type
The right dimensions will change depending on whether you are setting up a home office, student study zone or corporate workstation. Consider both current and future needs when you decide.
In a spare room or open-plan living area, a modest footprint can keep your workspace from taking over. Many people find a 1500 x 1500 mm or 1500 x 1800 mm layout from Home Office Desks offers enough room for dual monitors and storage without crowding the space. Students often do well with smaller configurations in the 1200 x 1500 mm range, as seen in dedicated Student Desks, where space for books and a laptop is more critical than extra depth.
In commercial environments, you may be working within a larger layout of pods and shared spaces. Here, Single Person Workstations and modular Corner Workstations let you standardise sizes, often around 1500 x 1800 mm or 1800 x 1800 mm. This makes it easier to plan cable management, partitions and flow between desks, while still giving each person ample work area.
For managers or client-facing roles, a more substantial footprint can help create a professional impression and allow for small meetings at your desk. Collections such as Manager Desks and executive-style Corner Office Desks often incorporate extra depth and return length for this reason. If you regularly host discussions, consider positioning a small round table from the Office & Meeting Tables range nearby rather than oversizing the desk itself.
Planning clearances and future flexibility
Once you know the dimensions, you still need to ensure there is enough space to move around and adjust your layout over time. Clearances are easily overlooked but crucial for usability.
Aim to keep at least 800 mm of clear floor space in the main walkway behind your chair, and more if multiple people will pass through regularly. In narrow rooms, this may mean choosing a slightly shorter return or shallower depth so that the overall layout remains practical. When comparing options in L-Shaped Desks and Corner Workstations, check both the listed sizes and how they are oriented so you can plan for these gaps accurately.
Think about future changes such as adding another monitor, extra storage or even a second workstation. Selecting compatible items from coordinated ranges like Corner Office Desks, Home Office Desks and Single Person Workstations makes it easier to expand without having to replace everything. If there is any chance you will shift to a sit-stand setup, opting for Height Adjustable Workstations from the start will save you rearranging the room later.
Finally, sketch your room to scale or use simple online planning tools to map out your chosen dimensions. Add nearby storage, chairs and any Office & Meeting Tables to see how people will move through the space. A few tweaks at this stage can ensure that your L-shaped desk not only fits in the corner, but also supports a comfortable, productive and flexible workspace for years to come.
