For the professional who spends serious time in the office, often has reams of paperwork involved in each project, and needs to meet with clients at their desk, the CommClad Rectangular Desk Shell is ideal.  While this is clearly not a desk for everyone it is surely the ultimate in simple desks.  With no built-in storage and a rather large “footprint”, mobile laptop users and space-saving home office designers had best look elsewhere.

Design Features I Like

The manufacturer’s description – a “rectangular shell” – while accurate, doesn’t fully do it justice.  With no shelves or drawers, this desk is designed to provide two things: an ample work surface, and a professional meeting place.  For all of it’s simplicity, this desk does what it’s designed for quite well, with well thought out features that earn it my recommendation for the professional office.

Although you can’t see it in the pictures, I can assure you that the underside of the desk is completely open.  There’s plenty of leg room underneath, which makes it a comfortable fit even if you’re taller than average.  The solid sides and back extend from the desktop to the floor, so file boxes or other items can be placed under the desk without giving the office a cluttered appearance.    (You can even slip off your shoes while you work without anyone being the wiser!)

A Few Little Extras

The back wall of the desk is recessed enough that a visitor can comfortably pull up a chair without bumping their knees.  This is a nice feature when your work includes going over documents with a client, or in-office consultations.  It’s a practical, well thought out design bonus that is missing in similar, lower-quality desks of this sort – and one of the reasons I particularly like this one.
The desk itself has clean lines and a nice laminate finish that makes a great writing surface.  There are two desktop grommets that allow cords to be tidily tucked away.  It’s also quite sturdy, and comes with attachable feet that can be adjusted individually to help you achieve a level work surface regardless of your flooring.

Recommended For…

This is the ideal desk if you are looking for a minimalist design. This desk comes in several lengths and different finishes that will complement either modern or traditional décor.  CommClad has some complementary pieces that will expand it into a complete L- or U- shaped workstation or add matching storage space for your office.

Not Recommended For…

I wouldn’t recommend  it when space is tight, or when your work calls for a lot of storage close at hand leg room is at a premium over storage space.

My final verdict

I’ve spelled things out pretty clearly really, if you are looking for a functional no trimmings desk then this is the desk for you. Its a good choice for a professional services office.  While it doesn’t say “executive”, it does give a clean, polished look at an affordable price.

The CommClad Rectangular Desk Shell comes with the manufacturer’s 5-year warranty and ships by truck delivery, ready to assemble, to your door.  I’ve found the best deal online, which includes FREE shipping – especially nice due to the 110 lb. weight of this one – and responsive, helpful customer service.

It’s currently available online at a significant discount off the in-store price, including hassle free returns and the “Take 90!” option of no payments for 90 days, interest free.  Why not add the top-selling Office Star Executive Leather Chair  and check out the other CommClad pieces to round out your office set up.

Dimensions         29.5″ H x 48″ – 71″ W x 30″ – 36” D

Click here for more details on the CommClad Rectangular Desk Shell – TM – Y