10 Double Desk Office Ideas: Smart Design Inspiration for Shared Workspaces

One time, I designed a shared office for two brothers who insisted on having their desks connected like a race car cockpit. It sounded absurd at first, but it actually worked out beautifully — and taught me that a double desk can be way more than just two tables side by side. In small or shared spaces, creative planning can transform productivity and comfort, and today I’m sharing 10 double desk office ideas that I’ve tested myself.

1. Opposite Facing Desks

If you want collaboration without distractions, placing desks face-to-face with a partition in between is a great solution. It keeps eye contact possible but cuts down on noise.

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2. Side-by-Side Against the Wall

This is the classic 'buddy system' layout — two desks sharing a long tabletop along the wall. It’s simple, space-saving, and perfect for narrow rooms. I’ve even used a room planner to visualize exact measurements before installation.

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3. Back-to-Back in the Center

A back-to-back configuration adds privacy and allows both people to face different directions. This works well in open-plan spaces where you want separate zones.

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4. L-Shaped Configuration

Arranging desks at a right angle saves floor space while offering more surface area. It’s great for partners with different work needs, like one for computer work and one for drawing.

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5. Floating Double Desk

Mounting a double desk to the wall without legs underneath gives the illusion of more space. It’s modern, airy, and easy to clean around — but make sure your wall can support it.

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6. Shared Storage in the Middle

Placing storage cabinets or drawers between two desks creates a natural divider and helps reduce clutter. When designing, I often use a free floor plan creator to ensure storage fits perfectly without blocking movement.

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7. Foldable Double Desk

Perfect for tiny apartments, a foldable desk can be tucked away when not in use. The trade-off is you can’t overload it with heavy hardware.

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8. Bench Style Long Table

Two people sharing a single long table gives a communal, coworking vibe. Just make sure to manage cable clutter with under-desk trays.

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9. Raised Platform Desks

Installing desks on a raised wooden platform not only defines the work zone but also adds under-platform storage. It does take some carpentry work, but the visual impact is worth it.

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10. Built-In Window Desks

Facing desks toward or alongside windows brings in natural light and reduces the need for daytime lamps. I once planned such a setup with a office layout planner to align window height with the perfect desk height for long-term comfort.

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FAQ

1. What is a double desk office?

A double desk office is a workspace designed for two people, using connected or adjacent desks for efficiency and collaboration.

2. How much space do I need for two desks?

Ideally, you should allow at least 2.4–3 meters in length for two desks, but compact designs can fit in smaller rooms with smart layouts.

3. Can a double desk work in a home office?

Yes, with modular furniture or wall-mounted designs, a double desk can easily fit into small home offices.

4. Should I use one tabletop or two separate desks?

One continuous tabletop looks seamless and maximizes space, while two separate desks allow more flexibility if layouts need to change.

5. How do I manage cables for two people?

Use under-desk cable trays, clips, and shared power strips to keep wires tidy and easy to access.

6. Can I customize a double desk?

Yes, custom carpentry or modular systems allow you to tailor height, width, materials, and integrated storage to your needs.

7. Is lighting important for a double desk office?

Absolutely. According to the WELL Building Standard, sufficient natural and artificial lighting improves focus and reduces eye strain.

8. What budget should I expect?

DIY builds can start under $200, while custom designer double desks may range from $800 to several thousand depending on materials.