On the most recent episode of This One Podcast, Bob and I talked about our desks and setups. So I thought it might be nice to take a look back at my desk and see how it has served me over the years and what I wish I would have done differently, if I were to ever do it again.

I really like my decision to have a draw for cords and extras. I have a USB cord that runs out of the back of my iMac over to a USB hub which is hidden behind a drawer. A half circle opening allows for all kinds of cords to run from the USB hub to any device I need, which is snuggly put away in the draw and a whole tangle of clutter disappears from eyesight.

I don’t remember if I specifically measured my stereo for inclusion in the desk, but the side corners are just right for both my stereo on one side, but also the stackable plastic drawers you can get from Target or Walmart.

I’m glad I gave myself plenty of room. I knew at the time I needed a space for my 19 inch CRT monitor, but even with that gone I have a lot of stuff for my desk and I like the workspace.

One thing I wanted was space on my desk to write or draw. Provided my desk is clean enough, I have that space, but it’s not as well lit as I originally had hoped. There is some room for improvement there, but I need to find a better source of light.

Originally, I think I had intended to stain the wood a lighter color. I think I went darker mostly due to the availability of the darker stain which we had on hand. While the lighter wood might have been nice, I have grown fond of the beautiful color of the wood.

(Side note: after I ordered my desk, I took a picture of the wood, and had snapfish.com print me a mousepad with the picture of the wood grain on it. Best mousepad ever for my desk.)

This desk was one of my first big wood projects. I gave the measurements and the layout a lot of thought. One thing I wish I would have given a bit more thought was the finishing of the desk. The screws are all visible and there are a few other mechanics which probably should be moved slightly to help hide them and make everything look pretty. In addition, I have had several modifications made and a few new holes drilled since I built it and none of these modifications have been stained or finished off the way they probably should be. Maybe my next big move?

I built this desk as a “one person, two computers” desk. Having two computers though, often times provides opportunities for two people to use computers at the same time, such as for games and such. As a result, there is a bit of an awkward sitting arrangement for anyone who wants to sit at the second computer, either in lack of room for legs space or for reaching the keyboard, or whatever. If I was to do this again, I would seriously consider making the one side longer or at least providing a better system for a second person who needed/wanted to use the desk at the same time.

Overall I think that the desk has paid off nicely. It only cost me $320 to build (not including my time, although I do enjoy woodworking projects to help expand my horizons) and so after 3 and a half years, it only cost me $8 a month… give or take. Which in my opinion, is one mighty fine investment.