The tricky part of this setup is hiding the cords in cupboards adjacent to the desk area. Here’s how.

1. You could drill a hole in the top of the cupboard near the edge of your desktop and thread the wires through. But for a more finished look, drill a two-inch hole, line it with the sleeve of a Mockett Flip-Top Grommet Set, and thread the cords through the opening in the cap (many sizes and colors available; $3.25, www.mockett.com).

2. Figure out where to put the power strip. Under the desktop means you’ll have just the one cord running from desk to grommet. Or take all the cords completely away from the desk and have plug them into a power strip concealed inside the cupboard (which also gives you easier access, if you tend to fiddle with plugs, than if you have to duck under the desk to plug and unplug). Drill a hole close to the edge of the desktop so the wires don’t have far to travel (and won’t look ugly), or cover them with half-inch plastic spiral wire wrap in a color that blends with the bookcase.

3. What happens next depends on your setup. Best scenario: Have an electrician install a new outlet inside the cupboard, and plug the power strip cable in right there. Otherwise, lead the cord out of the bottom of the cupboard to a wall outlet, using a Belkin or Wiremold protector channel (see “Get Your Wired Uncrossed”).

Get more advice on setting up a home office in your living room.