What's the difference between a desk return and a credenza — aren't they both just side surfaces?

They serve related but distinct purposes: a return is a narrower secondary work surface (24–48 inches wide) that extends the desk into an L-shape for additional working area. A credenza is a larger storage cabinet (60–72 inches wide) positioned behind the desk with file drawers and box drawers built in. A bridge panel then spans from the back of the desk over to the credenza top, connecting the two into a U-shaped workspace. The return extends your work area; the credenza stores things; the bridge connects it all. At FindOfficeFurniture.com we walk through all three components when configuring executive suites — call 888-719-4960.