I remember one apartment we lived in SF in the 60's, had a little nook with a shelf in the entry hall, just big enough for a telephone. Of course, with a telephone outlet as well. There wasn't enough room for a chair, so I remember having to stand there to talk to my girlfriend while my nosy little sister stood there, staring and eavesdropping. Eventually in a fit of economy, Mom cancelled the phone service and I used the pay phone in a nearby gas station. Again, had to stand! Good times!