Hide Computer Monitors When Not in Use With This 1 Tip

Having a cluttered desk with wires, cables, and monitors strewn about can make your workspace feel chaotic. But did you know that simply hiding your computer monitor when you’re not using it can transform the look and feel of your desk?

In this article, we’ll explore some clever ways to conceal your monitor to create a cleaner, more organized workspace. From folding wall desks to hidden monitor lifts, we’ll cover both high-tech and low-tech solutions.

Key Takeaways:

• Folding wall desks, hidden monitor lifts, and concealed workstations allow you to completely hide monitors when not in use.
• Using furniture like Murphy beds and hollow coffee tables to conceal monitors can add functionality to your space.
• Strategically placing decor, shelves, or partitions can conceal monitor backs and wires.
• Hiding monitors when not in use provides aesthetic, space-saving, privacy and security benefits.

Let’s get started!

Methods for Hiding Computer Monitors

If you want to camouflage your computer display when you’re not working, there are several effective options to choose from. Here are some of the best ways to make your monitor seemingly disappear:

1. Folding Wall Desks

One way to completely conceal both your monitor and desk is to use a folding wall desk that rotates outward when in use.

Wall beds work on a similar mechanism – you pull down the bed when you want to sleep, and fold it back up into the wall to free up space during the day. Folding wall desks function the same way, but instead of a mattress, they have a desk surface and space for a monitor, keyboard, and other accessories.

When not in use, the desk folds vertically against the wall so that only the cabinet face is visible. This hides everything on your desk for a clean, minimalist look.

A folding wall desk in the closed position concealed against the wall

To access your workspace, simply pull the desk down horizontally. Some even have automatic opening mechanisms that slowly lower the desk into position with the push of a button.

The same folding wall desk opened out horizontally to reveal the desk surface and space for a computer monitor. Image via Expand Furniture.

Wall desks are ideal if you want your monitor completely hidden from sight when not working. The downside is that they can be pricier than some other options. But if you have the budget, it’s a great way to reclaim space!

2. Desks With Hidden Monitor Lifts

Another option is a desk with a hidden monitor lift. These desks have a monitor riser that lowers down into the desk surface or lifts up when needed.

For example, the Autonomous SmartDesk has an optional monitor mount that fits flush within the desk when stowed. With the touch of a button, it rises up to bring your screen to eye level.

Animation showing how the Autonomous SmartDesk monitor lift rises up and lowers down into the desk.

This keeps your entire desktop clear of any obstructions when you want to hide your setup. It’s also height adjustable, allowing you to customize the ergonomics to your exact needs.

If you don’t want to purchase an entirely new desk, there are also standalone monitor lifts like the Mount-It! sit stand lift that can raise and lower your monitor on your existing desk.

3. Concealed Workstations

For the ultimate hidden monitor solution, consider installing a concealed workstation. These are desks or cabinets that rotate, lift, or slide open to reveal a workspace inside.

For example, you could have a hidden secretary desk tucked away behind cabinet doors. When closed up, it looks just like any other cabinet in the room. But open it up to access your desktop setup inside.

Other options include cabinets with flip-up work surfaces or hidden compartments for tucking away your monitor. Get creative with concealed workstations to make your tech setup vanish!

4. Use Normal-Looking Furniture That Transforms Into a Desk

If you don’t have room for a designated workstation, try repurposing normal-looking furniture with hidden functions to conceal your monitor.

For example, hollow coffee tables with lift-up lids create a surface for your monitor while doubling as a table. You can store your keyboard and other accessories inside when not in use.

A coffee table that provides concealed storage space inside

The same coffee table with the lid lifted to allow use as a desk

Murphy beds likewise have a similar dual function – you can fold them up into a cabinet or wall during the day as a space saver. Then deploy the bed when needed for sleeping.

Consider using transformative furniture like this that serve a decorative purpose, but also flip, lift or rotate to become functional workstations when required.

5. Creative Ways to Hide the Back of the Monitor

If you don’t want to conceal the entire monitor and desk, there are also some quick fixes for hiding just the rear of your display:

• Strategically place partitions or screens – Position bookshelves, partitions, or screens to block the view behind your desk. This masks cables and the monitor back.
• Use creative decor – Place artwork, decorative screens, or even plants and flowers strategically to camouflage monitor backs.
• Build DIY concealers – Construct simple DIY concealers like monitor hoods or backboards covered in decorative fabric or wallpaper to disguise your screen.
• Optimize your setup – Face your desk toward the wall and situate your monitor to hide cables and ugly backs.

With some creative thinking, you can find ways to mask unsightly monitor rears without completely hiding your full setup.

Benefits of Hiding Computer Monitors

Concealing your computer monitor offers a variety of advantages:

Aesthetics and Space-Saving

Firstly, hiding your monitor simply creates a more aesthetically pleasing, clutter-free workspace. Screens, stands, wires, and other apparatus can make desks look messy.

Stowing everything away keeps surfaces neat and minimalist. It also saves space by freeing up your entire desktop when you’re not working.

Privacy and Security

Secondly, concealing your monitor prevents prying eyes from seeing private information on your screen. This is especially useful in shared offices or public spaces.

Out of sight monitors are also less enticing for thieves if your home or workspace is ever unoccupied. So hiding your expensive gear adds a layer of security.

Conclusion

Having an exposed computer monitor constantly cluttering your workspace can make it feel chaotic and crowded. But utilizing some of the concealment tips in this article can transform the look of your desk.

Folding wall desks, hidden monitor lifts, concealed workstations, and creative decor offer ways to completely camouflage your monitor from sight when not working. This provides aesthetic, functional, privacy and security benefits.

So next time you step away from your computer, consider concealing that screen to reclaim your desktop real estate! Implementing just one of the monitor hiding ideas from this article can vastly minimize visual clutter while keeping your tech readily accessible whenever needed.

What’s your favorite tip for discretely tucking away your monitor? Share your ideas below!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I hide my computer monitor effectively?

A: Use folding wall desks, desks with hidden monitor lifts, or concealed workstations.

Q: Are there furniture options that can transform into a desk to hide a monitor?

A: Yes, normal-looking furniture can transform into a desk to conceal a monitor.

Q: What are some creative ways to hide the back of a computer monitor?

A: Use framed photos, artwork, or DIY projects to effectively cover the back of the monitor.

Q: Why is it important to hide computer monitors when not in use?

A: Hiding monitors improves aesthetics, saves space, and enhances privacy and security.

Q: What are the benefits of using desks with hidden monitor lifts?

A: Desks with hidden monitor lifts provide a concealed workspace and save space.

Q: Can concealed workstations be used to hide computer monitors?

A: Yes, concealed workstations are an effective way to hide computer monitors.

Q: How can I make my monitor invisible when not in use?

A: Use folding wall desks or furniture that transforms into a desk to make the monitor invisible.

Q: What are the privacy considerations of hiding computer monitors?

A: Hiding computer monitors enhances privacy by keeping the screen contents concealed.

Q: Are there space-saving advantages to hiding computer monitors?

A: Yes, hiding computer monitors can save space and improve the aesthetics of the workspace.

Q: How can I improve the backside of my computer monitor?

A: Use creative methods such as framed photos, artwork, or DIY projects to improve the backside of the monitor.