A practical and sturdy desk is a must for some people. For university students it is an essential item of furniture for studying, writing essays and organising lecture notes. Children of school age meanwhile will find a desk equally useful for getting their homework and exam revision done, far more effectively than if they were sitting on the couch with the TV on in the background, or reclining on their bed.

For anyone who works from home, a desk is also a necessity, and can be a place for working on a desktop computer, sorting through paperwork and performing other functions as required.

Whatever your main purpose is for buying a desk, the basic principles are the same. The desk should be sturdy and durable, and for this its important to consider the material that it’s made from. While manufactured wood and veneered designs may be cheaper, they are nowhere near as durable or as aesthetically attractive as a desk made from real wood. A pine desk is a great choice for anyone on a budget, offering an appealing combination of cost-effectiveness, attractiveness and functionality.

An oak desk meanwhile is ideal for anyone with a little more money to spend who is looking for something that will last for decades and retain its attractive natural finish.

Aside from materials, it’s important to think about the area of workspace provided by the desk, and whether this is suitable for your intended purpose. The number of drawers and the space available inside them is also an essential consideration which should be weighed up against your specific needs.