Map the bay’s taper at floor and worktop height
Start at the widest opening and measure across the bay in several places from the room towards the glass. Take the same readings where the legs will sit and at the intended worktop height. Record sills, skirting, curtain drops, radiators and valves. Mark any part that must stay accessible. Use a cardboard outline of the worktop to check both rear corners at the depth you want.
For example, a bay that is 135 cm at the room opening may narrow to 102 cm where the rear edge of the desk sits. A 100 cm top leaves only about 2 cm across both sides before allowing for curtain fabric, wall irregularity or hand room. Check whether moving it forward leaves the chair in the main walkway.
Check a fixed desk against the narrowed section
The VASAGLE LWD40X has a 100 × 50 cm top and a height of 75 cm. The open frame makes it easier to see where the legs will land. Measure the rear bracing against skirting and nearby pipes, and keep access to window catches and heating controls. Leave any separation required by the heater maker.
For a compact open front
VASAGLE LWD40X writing desk
A 100 × 50 cm surface and open front suit a compact laptop or single-screen arrangement.
Check the rear bracing, the 75 cm working height and the usable depth with cables in place.
- 100 × 50 cm top
- 75 cm worktop
- Open front with rear bracing
Measure the chair from the desk edge to the place you reach when standing. Test the side you use to approach it. If there is a radiator in the bay, check that the desk and equipment do not obstruct it and that you can reach the valve. Try a different location if the heater’s clearances cannot be met.
Try a folding desk if the bay has another use
The 80 × 40 cm HOMCOM folding desk can suit a laptop setup that moves between the bay and the room. It folds to about 9.5 cm deep and has two braked castors. Check the route over the floor, keep the desk level and set the brakes before use.
For a short roll to storage
HOMCOM 80 cm folding desk on wheels
The wheeled frame folds to a slim upright footprint and has two braked castors for use in position.
Trial a 40 cm deep surface with your kit. Check the storage route and floor transitions before choosing it.
- 80 × 40 cm footprint
- 9.5 cm folded depth
- Four castors, two braked
A 40 cm-deep top leaves limited space for a separate keyboard. Put the laptop, plug and mouse on a taped outline first. Remove the equipment before folding and give the desk a stable, secure storage position.
Test daylight at the hours you work
Sit down at your usual work time and look for glare from the sides and behind you. Try turning the screen or shifting the desk enough to see the effect. Check how blinds and curtains travel before putting a monitor near them. Leave enough room to reach the window controls without leaning over equipment. Route leads away from the walking path and keep them clear of the heater and moving curtain fabric.
Common questions
Should the desk sit inside the bay or just in front?
Test the taper, window and heating access, and chair pull-back. Choose the position that keeps those clear.
Where should I measure the width?
Take several readings from front to back at floor and worktop height. Use the narrowest point the desk crosses.
Can a desk go in front of a bay radiator?
Check the heater instructions, airflow and required clearances. Keep the controls accessible.
How can I reduce screen glare?
Test the setup in daylight, change the screen angle or desk position and use suitable shading.
Will a 40 cm-deep folding desk work?
Mock up the laptop, keyboard, mouse and cable space before choosing it for regular use.
Sources and selection
Sources and Amazon UK listings checked in November 2026. This guide uses published specifications and fitting guidance.