The NPR Tiny Desk Concerts are filmed at NPR headquarters in Washington, D.C., specifically in the newsroom behind the desk of former host Bob Boilen. The setting is an intimate office space within NPR's glass building, creating a unique and casual atmosphere for live music performances. Although called "Tiny Desk," the actual desk is not particularly small, and the concerts are typically recorded during the workday with a small audience of NPR employees and guests

. While most concerts are filmed at this NPR office location, some Tiny Desk performances have also been recorded in other places such as artist studios or outdoor settings to provide visually interesting backdrops

. However, the core and iconic venue remains the NPR newsroom in Washington, D.C.