Why Peninsula Desks Are the Ideal Work Surface for Teachers

Furnishing classrooms is inherently challenging. Since space is limited, every desk–and corresponding chair–should have a relatively small footprint. The desks cannot be too compact, however, or students won’t be able to take notes. The same goes for teachers’ desks, which are arguably harder to design because of the many needs they must fill. Thankfully, there’s at least one style that comes in a fairly small size but still offers maximum functionality: the peninsula desk.

What Is a Peninsula Desk?

A peninsula desk has an elongated tabletop that extends over the legs on one side. While this workstation configuration can fill an entire office, there are streamlined versions available, and these are the ones that are ideal for teachers. In the average classroom, peninsula desks that range in size from 54”W x 24”D to 72”W x 30”D seem to fit best. Coupled with an ergonomic chair that has adequate lumbar support, adjustable arms, and swivel capabilities, a sleek peninsula desk will provide the perfect workspace for a devoted educator.

How Do Peninsula Desks Make It Easier for Teachers to Do Their Jobs?

When equipped with the right features, peninsula desks allow teachers to do virtually everything they need to help their students succeed. For example, thanks to the extended edge, teachers can hold one-on-one conferences or tutoring sessions with their students right at their desks. The overhanging tabletop provides plenty of space for two people to chat in a low-stress environment. A student can simply pull up a chair after class to discuss their concerns or take a deeper dive into that day’s lecture. The expansive workspace also makes it easier to stay organized when grading assignments. Between quizzes, tests, papers, and homework assignments, there might be half a dozen piles on a teacher’s desk at any given time. On a peninsula desk, there will still be plenty of room left over to get work done. Storage space is also available in most peninsula configurations. When the desks are outfitted with locking filing cabinets, educators have a safe place to keep their valuables and other personal items while they work. Moreover, the additional drawers make it easy to clear the work surface at a moment’s notice in case of a last-minute conference with a student. For maximum functionality, it’s worth mentioning that peninsula desks can also be mobile. Some options come with locking wheels, for example, so they can either be secured at the front of the classroom or moved off to the side when teachers want more space to facilitate engaging discussions.

Customize Peninsula Desks for Your Teachers Today!

Are you responsible for furnishing one or more classrooms? For high-quality peninsula desks with custom specs, turn to McDowell-Craig. We have been selling true American-made schoolhouse and office furniture for four generations. Check out our catalog when you’re ready to start shopping.