Glass, wood and metal are three common materials used to construct furniture. Wood is used in all types of furniture, from tables to chairs to even desks. Metal is typically used in combination with another material to create a unique furniture style. Glass is commonly seen in the top surface for coffee tables, end tables and even dining tables. Or glass inserts are used in the cabinet doors to expose the cabinet interior and showcase the contents inside. Glass can even be used to create a modern, stylish computer desk to help provide an illusion of spaciousness in an otherwise small area. For those who like a modern, contemporary style, a glass computer desk may be the way to go.

Computer Desk Styles
There are a variety of desk styles designed for any workspace, whether for the home or a professional office environment. A glass computer desk works better in certain desk styles than others, as detailed below.

Executive desk - It is traditionally constructed from wood, has a front, and sides underneath the table top surface. May have drawers, pull out filing or storage drawers. Separate matching pieces of furniture such as a credenza, return, or hutch may complete the set.

Sectional workstation - Separate pieces can be set together into various configurations, such as u-shaped or l- shaped work areas. It is ideal for multiple workstations. It maximizes space in a small area. While commonly seen to be constructed from wood composite materials, some are constructed from glass.

Multi-student computer desks - These types are commonly found a school environment. Comprised of large, open tables to hold mutliple computer stations, they are made from durable man made materials. This open format makes it easier for maintenance and upkeep. Glass would not be a cost effective material for this desk style.

Cubicle style desk - Self standing walls enclose the workspace, creating a very small area for a computer desk. They commonly have multi level shelves in order to maximize the available vertical space. This type of setup is seen more in government or large corporate offices. Cost and durable would not make glass a cost effective material for this type of environment.

Armoire style desk - This compact design has plenty of room for a keyboard, mouse, computer, monitor, printer, and other related computer accessories. Doors hide the computer and the components so that it blends in with the rest of the furniture in the room. Usually made from wood, this type of desk is ideal for a home office setting.

Computer desk - It is similar to an executive desk but may have a keyboard tray that adjusts located underneath the table top surface. It may have built in holes in the horizontal surface for cables and cords. The table top surface should be large enough to write comfortably. These popular desks may be comprised of wood, metal, glass, or a combination of materials.

Ergonomic style desk - This type of desk can adjust to maximize comfort and efficiency for the individual user. Perhaps the table top surface may adjust to different heights to accomodate the needs of the user. A computer desk may also be an ergonomic desk.

Rolling computer station - Casters at the bottom of the legs of the table allows movement and offers versatility in room placement. It is typically made from aluminum for a lightweight design, but may have glass shelves to maximize vertical space.

Glass Computer Desk Styles
Glass helps create an open environment. With a glass computer desk, the computer is shown off and the focal point of the desk. Glass also creates the illusion of more space in a small room. The contemporary, modern style may create a futuristic style or industrial style when combined with silver metal. Once you decide on a glass computer desk, there are still style options to consider.

Glass - What type and style of glass should you use for the table top surface? Most of the glass used is tempered glass, which is more impact-resistant. How thick do you want the glass to be? The thicker the glass, the stronger and heavier the desk. The cost also increases with the thickness and quality of the glass. What type of glass edge do you want? The edge can be beveled or straight, or may even be encased in a protective covering such as a powder coated steel frame. What color glass? Clear glass is most common, but glass is available in a smoke or blue or even dark black tint. It may be smooth or even etched with a pattern if so desired.

Frame - Frames are commonly constructed from metal to securely hold the glass surfaces in place. Metal may vary in color and weight. Frame design can also be varied. Legs may appear x shaped or inverted v shaped, but are usually tubular in nature. If the frame is on casters, then a lightweight material is more desirable.

Accessories - Most glass computer desks are very simple in design, with no shelves or drawers. Accessories can be added to meet your individual needs. Glass shelves can attach to the side and edges of the main frame so that your computer components appear to float in the air.

Creating a Custom Glass Computer Desk
Any standard wood desk can be customized with a custom glass top that overlays the wood surface. This can help protect the wood desk surface and offers an easy to clean glass surface instead. You can even place items such as a desk calendar between the wood and glass surface.

Another custom glass option is to embed the glass directly into the surface of the wood. This provides a decorative and protective wood frame for the glass, allowing for the easy care option of glass yet still retaining the style and appearance of a traditional wood desk.

Maintenance of a Glass Computer Desk
Most glass computer desks come ready to assemble and thus make it easy to take apart when you need to move or relocate the desk. However, special care should be taken when moving the glass pieces, as the glass can get cracked or broken during a move, especially if dropped.

While tempered glass is considered more durable and scratch resistant than ordinary glass, care should still be taken to maintain your glass computer desk. Regular cleaning with a common glass cleaner will help remove any smudges and fingerprints that may accrue from everyday use.

Protective cushions made of rubber is recommended underneath any items that will be placed directly on the glass surface, such as the printer or computer monitor, or the CPU unit. This will help minimize scratches and signs of wear and tear on the fragile glass surface.