Small and Efficient Kitchen Offices

A sit-down desk in a calm corner offers extra space outside of the bustle of the work triangle. This office designed by Norwich, Connecticut architect Michael Stein is a natural landing place for keys and mail, and a place where family members can sit comfortably. Designers generally recommend a desk height of 28 to 30 inches and a knee-hole depth of 25 inches.

Deep drawers in this maple base unit—painted moss-green to match the island—are fitted with hanging folder frames. And the 7-foot-long granite countertop is perfect for spreading out textbooks. To hide clutter, the upper cabinets' glass fronts are frosted and supplies are stashed in boxes and baskets. With eight electrical outlets, a telephone jack, and a cable port for high-speed Internet access all located above the counter, powering up electronics is easy.