The writing desk is a contemporary piece of furniture that can be found in either a home or office setting. Although it was originally designed for the sole purpose of writing letters by hand, its uses have changed quite a bit over time, especially with the advent of the computer. Its history dates as far back as the 17th century, and in those times, the writing desk was known more as a status symbol for the wealthy due to it being expensive, and that most people at that time could not read or write.
Many classical writing desk styles prevailed between the 17th and 20th centuries, such as William and Mary, Queen Anne, Georgian, and Victorian. These styles featured the very best in ornate hand-craftsmanship at that time, such as elaborate wood carving patterns, gilding, dovetailed joints, and cabriole legs that curve outward from the desk on the way down before eventually curving back in and terminating in a ball-and-claw style foot that resembled the paw of an animal. This elaborate architecture helps to explain why it could only be afforded by the wealthy and was initially thought of as more of a status symbol or a decorative piece rather than as a useful piece of furniture. The writing desk produced during this time period featured a flat writing surface about 30 inches high, supported by cabriole, trumpet-turned, or bobbin legs. The horizontal writing surface at the back was supported by a wall that had a number of desktop storage units, also known as pigeonholes, where sensitive documents, writing implements, and other files could be stored. Beneath the writing surface was a set of drawers that spanned the entire width of the desk. Some of these desks came with a roll top or flip-down top that would slide down over the writing surface and pigeonholes and lock in place, protecting sensitive documents and the privacy of the user. It occasionally came with shelving or a hutch at the top, depending on the needs of the consumer of that time. The classical writing desk of this time period was made of wood, chiefly walnut and later mahogany, but writing desks made of oak, pine, and cherry could also be found.
Oak Desks For Home Office
As literacy rates improved, the demand for a more affordable and practical desk increased, especially among the lower and middle classes. This, combined with mass production in the early 20th century, did away with the ornate wood carvings and other signs of ornate craftsmanship, in favor of what could be produced rapidly by steam-powered machinery. From then on, materials other than wood were also used to produce the writing desk, such as laminate, steel, and even glass. At this point, it was much more affordable for the masses.
The advent of the computer brought about even more changes for the writing desk. The horizontal writing surface was made bigger to accommodate a computer monitor. The desk was also built with compartments where printers, scanners, and other computer peripherals could be housed. The pigeonholes were done away with as sensitive documents could now be stored either on the computer, or in file cabinets which often took the place of the drawers that used to span the entire width of the desk. The desire for more affordability and practicality also eliminated the hutch in most cases. Where the classical desks were built as a heavy, one-piece unit, some modern designs were modular and could be taken apart and reassembled as needed.
Although some of the classic writing desk models are hard to find nowadays, there are many reproductions being made and at rather attractive price points. These can make for a very beautiful decorative piece. If you are more into practicality and affordability, a modern desk may be a better alternative. Nowadays, these desks are being made to suit a wide variety of tastes. It will be interesting to see what other changes occur in the future.