Built for Need: Gadget Furniture That Fits

Gadget furniture -- desks, tables, and chairs with built-in ports and plugs -- enables users to manage hand-held technology devices in a single, dedicated storage space.

Technology lovers can finally "tame the tangle of cords from electronic gadget overload," says Milan Heger, a Seattle-based interior architect and furniture design expert.

Whether your furniture flavor of choice is traditional or contemporary, you’re sure to like these six cleverly stylish pieces:

It could replace: A bulky desk.

A one-stop replenishing station that’s part desk, part organization-center. The cover flips down into a work platform, and the backdrop is a fabric bulletin board. Adjustable shelves hold your PDA, camera, digital music player and other handheld goodies. A side vent releases the heat generated as electronic gear recharges, and a lock keeps out prying hands. This space-efficient, wall-mounted marvel is "discrete, designed with technology in mind, and fits anywhere," says Richard Schuler, furniture design instructor at The Art Institute of California.

Pros: You can set up a minimal office anywhere in your house. It’s available in three wood finishes and in a larger size.
Cons: Some assembly is required.

It could replace: A chair and side table.

This miniature power hub is as savvy as the technology it hides. It can be used as a stool, raised table, or side table. The top surface is removable, and when inverted becomes a tray. Beneath the surface is a hollow interior with built-in power slots.

Pros: Versatility!
Cons: The sturdy table is shipped flat, so setup requires muscle.

It could replace: The need for separate end tables.

This Italian-made marvel is perfect for the space challenged. Attached side and rear work tables are pre-wired for a computer, printer, FAX and other electronic accessories. You’ll have more space and less clutter. A trendy idea for stylish multitasks. Plus, you gotta love the name!

Pros: Complimentary side chairs are available.
Cons: It’s built as a single unit, which may present a problem if you want a change in room setup or technological devices you’re using?.

It could replace: Any computer desk with exposed power cords.

A beautifully crafted "power player full of surprises and excitement," says Dianne Barham of Aspenhome, the Phoenix-based furniture company that makes the desk StoreCharge, a cool technology feature built into the hitch drawer, is actually a surge-protected power strip where you can store and charge multiple hand-held electronics. Another drawer conceals a laptop deck and mouse platform. Unsightly cords hide inside the hollow desk leg.

Pros: It’s available in eight different styles and finishes.
Cons: Not designed to accommodate non-laptop computer systems.

It could replace: An office desk, file cabinet, and stand-alone bookcase.

If you love traditional styling but can’t sacrifice modern functionality, this unit offers both. The twin pedestal, cherry wood desk with box-style drawers may be 20th century, but it hides 21st century conveniences. Features include a laptop docking station, flip-down keyboard drawer, and ergonomic wrist rest. A hinged desktop panel opens to reveal data ports, phone jacks and power plugs, but is flush with the desk when closed.

Pros: The desk is available separately from the deck.
Cons: It’s about the size of most traditional desks.

It could replace: An entire home office.

This traditional bedside nightstand takes you out of the office and into the bedroom -- professionally speaking, of course. Electronic data ports and jacks are concealed in the top drawer and you can plug in and work without ever leaving the comfort of your bed.

Pros: It’s part of a matching bedroom suite with smartly concealed electronic features.
Cons: Only one style is available.