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Open office seating plans often mean little privacy and zero storage. And you may only have half the desk space you’re used to occupying. Fortunately, there are desk accessories and organizational tricks that can help you maximize your space and make it feel more your own—and less like you’re working in a disorganized, chaotic pen.
[In this image: The Soludos offices, designed by Shelly Lynch-Sparks of Homepolish.]
Desktop Storage Solution
If you can’t spread out, build up: This shelf attaches to your desk, giving you extra drawers and storage space. IKEA Alex Add-On Unit, $39.99
Get a Chic Paper Tray
Are you drowning in papers, notes, and documents to the point where you can’t even see your actual desk? Invest in a paper tray to corral the clutter. This one’s super chic, so you’ll actually want to use it. Rachel George Acrylic Marble Desk Tray, $58
Try This Space-Saving Shoe Hack
There’s nothing worse than sitting down and having nowhere to put your feet because of a gazillion pairs of shoes underneath you. This simple shoe rack keeps things tidy without taking up a ton of space. Whitmor Natural Wood and Chrome Shoe Rack, $19.97
A Multi-Tasking Cup
Not your average desk accessory. This two-in-one gem is part pen cup, part phone charger. PBTeen Classic Wooden Phone Holder, $19
Mount it to the Wall
If you’re tapped for space, get creative. Try utilizing whatever walls are around you by hanging baskets, cubbies, or pin-boards. CB2 Coco Gold Wall Pocket, $9.95
Go Clear
Use these stacking boxes to organize everything from paperclips to lip balm. When you can see what you’ve got, you’ll never have to go digging.
CB2 Format Stacking Boxes, $29.95
The All-Purpose Basket
Wire baskets are a great multi-use item—great for storing notebooks, supplies, magazines, what have you, plus they can be tucked under your desk instead of taking up precious real estate up top. 3R Studios Metal Baskets, $134.99
A Convenient Catchall
A cute tray is essential for holding all those small everyday items like your ID badge, hand lotion, Post-Its, etc. Lulu & Georgia Ooh La La Tray, $49
Divide Your Drawers
What’s worse than having no space? Having no space and not being able to find what you need. Get organized with drawer dividers that make sorting and finding supplies a piece of cake. The Container Store Like-It Large 6-Section Drawer Divider, $6.99
Add Positivity
Here’s one way to make the most of a small work space: A good attitude. These cute cards are the reminder you need to give yourself a pat on the back. Ban.Do Compliment Greeting Card Set, $12
Related reading:
How to Create a Dreamy Garden in a Small Space How to Grow Vegetables, Even if You Have No Space The Best Small Space Living Accounts to Follow on Instagram