We all know achieving the ultimate workspace (like our past DeskTops spotlight above) is an iterative process that requires patience and keen eye for what should and shouldn't go on top of the daily working surface. But if we could do it all over, we'd go for a more minimal look, showcasing only the bare essentials and shelving the rest.
First things first, we'd immediately replace all our keyboards and mice with Bluetooth-enabled devices. For batteries, we recommend using Sanyo Enelops. They've tested well in our Unplggd labs and have been a personal favorite around the office.
Next, we'd pair down the desk to just 3 main areas: 1) the main computer, 2) a desk lamp, and 3) the landing station for our smartphone. We'd even go as far as to create a separate area for keys and wallet since they make more sense by the door than on a busy surface as the primary working desk.
A potential area for a fourth area would be reserved for audio junkies such as myself, in which case we'd make room for set of audiophile monitors or our favorite headphones.
We could even devise similar plans for a tablet-only setup by creating a quick and easy docking station that's both functional and clutterless. Above, the Upstand allows for just that.
Lastly, we'd address the issue of wire management, both nearby items and along the underside. Remember, even the slightest overlooked detail can ruin the perfect setup!
What are the bare essentials for your dream desk setup?
(Image: Flickr member Linhgo, Xstand Upstand)

Sheex Bedding
Where is this desk from?
Eneloops
pare down
I know this is basically Unplgged, but I think most ppl have more stuff on their desks because they need it, not any sort of perverse desire to clutter up their workspace. :p The tablet setup is pretty nifty, though.
Just the essentials. Monitor, mouse, mouse pad, keyboard, phone, speakers, pencil cup, one upright paper holder for misc in progress things, various baseballs on display :-)
http://www.oldtownhome.com/2012/1/20/For-Our-Cherry-Desk-Not-Just-Any-Shelves-Would-Do/index.aspx
I want to know as well (repeat Melissaodesign):
Where is that desk from?
Herman Miller Airia desk - $1200.
Click the link in the first sentence, "Past Desktops Spotlight" and you will find more info about it.
The desk is the Herman Miller Airia desk: http://hermanmiller.com/Products/Airia-Desk-and-Media-Cabinet
also known as my dream desk.
@ SurJeanne and @ MelissaOdesign,
It is the Herman Miller "Airia" Desk.
http://hermanmiller.com/Products/Airia-Desk-and-Media-Cabinet
Expensive (but certainly beautiful) setup.
Where do the paper clips go? tape dispenser? a pen? anything that is necessary for anyone that actually uses their desks???
paper clips? tape? that's what drawers are for. having just decluttered my desk recently, i reasoned that i probably don't even use pens/notepads frequently enough for them to find a permanent home on the desk surface.
Did you look at the Studio Desk from BlueLounge? It is similar in design but has some very interesting features to manage cords. I doubt it is quite the quality of the Hermann Miller but at $600 or $800, depending on size, it is quite a bit less expensive and might be a good alternative. I've not physically seen either desk so I don't know what the quality difference actually is. I'd be very interested in hearing from anyone who has.
Beautiful desk, does any know where it's from?
Got it, missed reading the comments