Writing Desk Styles

Classic

• Crafted of rich woods and intricately detailed designs, classically styled writing desks were elegant and useful. Constructed of black walnut or oak, the 17th century, medieval, Jacobean writing desk was among one of the first created. Graceful and refined, the William and Mary desk commonly incorporated floral or scroll motifs and Oriental-lacquer finishes. Queen Anne, Georgian, Chippendale, Shaker, Victorian and Arts and Crafts describe styles of writing desks that emerged out of historical eras.

Modern

• Designed to accommodate computers, laptops and printers, modern writing desks are commonly wider than their classical counterparts. Traditionally constructed of wood, contemporary writing desks are available in metal, glass and acrylic, in addition to assorted dark woods. Splayed or straight legs and brushed nickel hardware characterize the modern writing desk. A keyboard pull-out and scratch-resistant surface are features common to many modern writing desks.

Secretary

• Space-saving, compact and multifunctional describe the secretary writing desk. It is a closed desk that appears to be a small chest until a latch is opened, revealing a convenient, drop-down writing surface. Previously hidden storage compartments, shelves and drawers are uncovered when the writing table is extended. Cabinet doors or drawers incorporated into the lower half of the secretary provide ample storage for office supplies, books, magazines and notebooks. An array of colors and styles will complement any decor.

Roll Top

• Traditional roll-top desks are the largest writing desk and require a good amount of floor space. Commonly integrating file cabinets, drawers, pigeon-hole compartments, pen holders and a stationary writing surface, roll-top desks are functional and aesthetically pleasing . Rich woods and brass hardware are traditional, common attributes. A tambour roll-top drawer, which can instantly be pulled down to conceal the working desk, is a distinctive characteristic of the roll-top desk.