Why Secretary Desks Have Withstood the Test of Time

The earliest version of a secretary desk originated in France in the first half of the 18th century1 and offered two sections. The bottom was dedicated to storage, which was usually concealed by a sliding door or drawers. The top half included a drop-down writing surface that, when open, revealed additional storage receptacles.

Although there have been many design variations over the years, they still almost always feature a drop-down writing surface and storage. It seems the need for a compact workspace and the desire to quickly hide clutter transcend generations.

Max Kim-Bee

Tips for Finding the Right One

Whether you’re shopping vintage or buying new, keep an eye out for these features to find a secretary desk that fits your space, storage needs, and personal style.

Decide on the Best Shape and Style

Before you even start looking for a secretary desk, narrow your search by determining the style you want. The overall aesthetic of a secretary desk will vary based on the era it was made in (or the era it’s trying to emulate if it’s a reproduction).

For example, if your style leans toward an antique, maximalist look, search for Victorian-era secretary desks with a dark wood stain and ornate scrollwork. If you’re going for a minimalist, modern look in your home, look for a midcentury secretary desk with a medium- or light-toned stain.

It’s also important to figure out whether you even want to use your secretary desk as a desk at all. If you don’t plan to sit in front of it for work, you can look for an older version without carved-out leg space.

Train Your Eye to Spot One

One interesting thing about secretary desks is that the concealed writing surface and hidden storage can sometimes be too convincing. It can be easy to walk right past one and assume it’s a China cabinet or dresser.

That’s why it’s a good idea to look up photos of the different styles, so you can easily spot one in the wild at a flea market or while you’re scrolling through online listings. And when searching for a secretary desk on a site like Facebook Marketplace, don’t limit your search to just the words “secretary desk.” Briefly glance through the listings for “buffet cabinet” or “chest of drawers” since these pieces are easy to mislabel.

How to Style a Secretary Desk

Whether you’re using it as a workspace, display piece, or both, these simple styling ideas will help your secretary desk shine.

Put It In a Convenient Location

Secretary desks blend seamlessly into nearly any room in a home, but just make sure the placement aligns with how you plan to use it. For example, if you want to store extra towels and toiletries, place the desk in your bathroom (if there’s space) or directly outside the bathroom door.

Brie Williams

Don’t Over Accessorize

When adding accessories and decor to a secretary desk, avoid placing anything on it that would interfere with opening and closing the drop-down writing portion. If you have to move things around each time you want to open it, the odds that you’ll actually put the things that go inside it away are slim.

Contrast with Modern Pieces

Like any old piece of furniture, a secretary desk often conjures up images of a grandmother’s home. But whether it reads as contemporary or dated all depends on its setting. Consider surrounding it with furniture that contrasts rather than matches the same antique or vintage look.

Since most secretary desks are made of wood, you can add some interest by choosing a padded office chair with a sleek metal frame. Or, hang some modern art above it.