Beautiful Secretary Desks

 

Secretary desks can add a touch of classic elegance to almost any room in your home. And if you use your imagination, you’ll find plenty of uses for secretary desks. Of course, they can be used for their traditional purpose, but they’re a lot more versatile than you might think.

 

What is a secretary desk?

 

A secretary desk is a piece of furniture that is almost always made of wood. It has an area for writing that sits atop either a square or rectangular base or four legs. The writing area is generally concealed behind a door or front that opens and closes. Some secretary desks also include shelves and/or storage compartments for pens, pencils, stamps, and papers.

 

In years gone by, the secretary desk was the equivalent of our modern computer desk. Our ancestors often sat at these desks to write letters, to pay bills, and to make entries into journals.

 

Secretary desks might be made of pine, oak, cherry, walnut, or other woods. Most have natural wood stains, but some are painted. The painted secretary desks are often embellished with designs.

 

Secretary desks range in styles from intricate hand-carved desk fronts to plain Shaker to modern. There’s also a range of types, with some of the most popular described below.

 

Drop-front secretary desks

 

These secretary desks are usually 42-48 inches tall and have a front panel that drops open to reveal the writing table and the inside compartments.

 

Shaker secretary desks

 

These are very plain secretary desks in the classic Shaker style. In size and basic design, the desks are much like the drop-front secretary desks, but they have no carvings, scrollwork, or other embellishments. This style is also referred to as “mission.”

 

Butler secretary desks

 

A butler display secretary desk is usually around 80 inches tall. A set of shelves sits atop the desk itself, and the shelves are often glass front. Under the desk’s writing area are often several drawers.

 

Mercantile secretary desks

 

These secretary desks are usually about the same height as a traditional drop-front desk. These desks were popular in the decades before, during, and after World War II. The front can often be locked, and when opened, it reveals cubbyholes and small drawers above the writing surface. The desk is supported by four slim legs.

 

Tall secretary desks

 

These secretary desks are usually around 80 inches tall. The configuration is the traditional writing desk topped by a hutch-type storage cabinet that has two solid doors.

 

Today’s secretary desks

 

Although secretary desks can be found in contemporary or modern styles, the most popular types are the ones that have an antiqued or distressed look. Many of these desks appear to be vintage on the outside, but they might be designed for modern uses. As an  example, secretary desks with holes for wiring at the back for a computer can be readily found.

 

Where to find secretary desks

 

You might luck up on a secretary desk or two at a traditional furniture store or in an antique shop. The best place, however, to see a wide range of styles and prices for secretary desks is online.