Secretary Style Computer Desk

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Eliza is a creative interior designer who swears by the power of sleek interiors and quality furniture to transform daily personal and professional life. With a B.Sc. in interior design from Philadelphia University and a well trained eye for craftsmanship, she offers unparalleled advice on how to arrange your space to make it sophisticated, comfortable, and functional, whether it’s the office or bedroom.

Updated 23/04/2021

A secretary desk is an excellent addition to the house if you need somewhere to work but don't have a lot of space for a full-size desk. Standard secretary desks are roughly a third of the size of most desks. They are taller and take up substantially less space, yet these secretary style computer desks can hold any size desktop computer, plus they have nooks above and below for files and other office supplies. Take a look at this collection for more details.

Buying Guide

A secretary desk got its name because early in its history it is said that the secretary to a wealthy person used it to write out bios and do their paperwork. It comes in many styles varying from vintage and traditional to contemporary.

What are the uses of a secretary style computer desk?

A secretary style computer desk unites construction features of the past with an ever-present utilitarian need: space for storage and getting organized. First and foremost, it offers a work area for using a laptop, iPad or computer and for storing related peripherals while also adding a nice decorative touch. In addition to doing computer work on it, also use it for its original purpose: writing notes, letters and checks. Your pens, pencils and styluses will be readily handy because a secretary style computer desk has an adequate number of drawers and cubbyholes for keeping the supplies you will need.

Where to put a secretary style computer desk?

Since its storage space is so discrete, you can use a secretary style computer desk in a number of places in your home wherever you do your desk work, including the bedroom, living room, kitchen, and bathroom.

In some of these spaces, especially those with a contemporary look, it might be better to choose a desk in a light pastel rather than one in the traditional dark wood. These desks allow you to do your work, and then close your work area up when guests come so the room looks tidy. While some let you close off the working surface while leaving cubbyholes exposed, others can be completely “sealed.” Desks in this style do not draw attention to themselves so other decoration in the room can be the focus.

What traditional designs of secretary desks are there?

One classic secretary style computer desk in dark wood has a top shelf where you can put books or display photos, a row below it that consists of six cubbyholes and a drop-down work surface on hinges in the next section. Two chains stabilize the drop-down action. The bottommost section has brassy ornamented pulls on its two drawers and one cabinet. This piece has a stately, old world charm.

Another piece with a broad working surface has a number of spaces for storing writing implements, paper clips, Post-it notes and more above it. Below it are two deep drawers for storage. Cabriole legs add refined elegance to this utilitarian piece.

What are the best secretary desks for contemporary spaces?

As far as secretary style computer desks, the color white helps them to coordinate with contemporary style. Such is the case of one sturdily built desk with nine storage compartments and drawers at the top. Below it is a cabinet two drawers with black accents. Another piece made of solid oak has a gray finish and the look of an artist’s easel. It features a drawer and open storage spaces above the surface for a laptop and A-frame legs with stretchers.