One of the earliest desks that we would recognize as a writing desk was made around the 1600s. Ever since, the classically designed writing desk has become an integral part of many people’s homes and offices.
What makes the writing desk unique? A writing desk differs from a standard desk in that it is usually much smaller in size, making it a perfect choice for either a bedroom or a small-office. Originally they were used to pen letters by hand, and to keep communication and writing somewhat private. Many desks had a top that would either slide out or swing up, which was lowered and used to conceal writing, and writing materials, when the desk was not in use. This served a double purpose. It kept the written material private and away from prying eyes and it also helped the room stay neat and tidy.
Most writing desks, both traditional and contemporary, usually have at least two draws set in the desk. Many also have an optional hutch that can be set on top of the desk. These hutches also often have additional drawers or they have small pigeonhole sections where things can be stored.
Traditional Writing Desk
The traditional writing desk is a wonderful piece of furniture that would look lovely in any living room or bedroom and would fit in well with any type of furniture. Traditionally the writing desk was made from hard wood, with a beautiful veneer finish. The finish was either a rich cherry color, a sturdy oak finish, or a darker espresso or black wood color.
Contemporary Writing Desk
Many contemporary writing desks are styled after traditional desks. They remain small sized, and while perfect to set a laptop on, they are not really suitable to use with a desktop computer. Some even have a small sliding section where you can place the keyboard. Many also have provision to add on an optional hutch with either additional drawers or pigeonholes.
Aside from the more traditionally styled wood writing desks, there also some fantastic contemporary desks fitted with a glass desktop. Other styles include writing desks with metal frames or legs.
What to Look for When Buying a Writing Desk
Aside from making sure that it will fit in with the overall décor of the room you will be placing it in, normally people are concerned that the writing desk is sturdy and strong. Another important factor especially if you will be buying a writing desk online is that it is very easy to assemble.
You should decide in advance whether you are going for a more traditional style or a contemporary style writing desk. If you are short on space, you should take a look at the corner writing desk. It is built to fit snugly into the corner, maximizing the use of your space. Make sure when you buy the desk that it has enough drawers to suit your needs. Again, if it does not, you can always invest in a hutch to sit on top of it. In fact many writing desks are sold with the option of buying an additional hutch that matches the color and style of the writing desk perfectly.
Of course cost is also a consideration when buying a writing desk. Is very easy these days to do a simple search for whatever you are looking to buy online, and simply check through the different products and see which ones fall into your price range. Prices will depend on things such as the design the quality of craftsmanship and the materials that the writing desk is made from.
One problem with buying writing desks, or any furniture for that matter, online is that it is very difficult to tell exactly how well it is been made. For example with a writing desk it is very important that the drawers slide in and out very easily, otherwise it’ll be frustrating trying to use it. Obviously, that is very difficult to discover when buying something online. One way around this is to look on different sites that have customer reviews. I always learn a lot about a piece of furniture or other items that I am are going to buy simply by looking at the customer reviews. Generally if there is a problem with a particular piece of furniture or product you will find several people said something about it and it will be noted down in the reviews.
Building your Own Writing Desk
Of course if you are really handy with tools or who have a friend or significant other who is, one option is to build your own writing desk. The great thing about building your own writing desk is that you can design exactly how you would like to be, and if there are any extra additional features you would like you can simply draw them into the plans.
Finding Antique Writing Desks
If you are more the adventurous type, one thing you might want to do is try to locate an antique writing desk. This is really not as difficult as it may seem to be as you can often find antique furniture when you go to garage sales or simply by looking through different second-hand stores.
If you are fortunate enough to find one you can have a lot of fun sanding them down and refinishing them.
Of course, you do have to know a little bit about furniture, as there are also many newer writing desks on the market today that have been intentionally designed to look like antique writing desks.
The Executive Writing Desk
The executive writing desk looks very much like a regular writing desk with one exception. Usually they have more drawers, with some having draws down either side that go all the way down to the floor. They will also often have a larger size hutch. They are still very compact though and great for situations where you do not have a lot of space but you need the work at a desk.
In conclusion, a writing desk is a great addition to any room. Their classic look is perfect for most décor, and they really add a touch of elegance to rooms. They are also very practical and useful to have around your home. If you do not have one and you have space in your sitting room or your bedroom that needs a little something extra, you really should think about investing in a writing desk.