Vintage Desks

10 min readJun 19, 2024

Welcome to our Vintage Desk roundup! Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an antiques collector, or simply looking for a unique piece to add to your home, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through time, exploring the charm and allure of vintage desks. Get ready to find your perfect addition to your workspace or decor, as we highlight the best vintage desks available on the market.

The Top 7 Best Vintage Desks

Harbor Point Vintage 60-Inch Antique Desk — The Harbor Point Vintage 60-Inch Storage Desk by Greyson Living, with its antique cobblestone white finish and charming antiqued metal knobs, adds vintage charm to any space while providing sturdy storage and convenient features.
Whitley Antique Desk — Vintage Elegance and Storage Space — Experience the perfect balance of vintage elegance and modern convenience with the Whitley Antique Desk, featuring an attractive off-white finish, intricate sides, and ample storage space.
Retro Vintage Wood Computer Desk with Steel Frame — Compact Study Desk — Add a touch of vintage charm to your workspace with the Retro Wood Computer Desk featuring a black steel frame, two drawers, and ample space for your gadgets.
Vintage Nutmeg and Gunmetal Writing Desk — The Deehome Antique Nutmeg and Gunmetal Writing Desk is a sleek, modern option perfect for any room, offering ample organization and workspace amidst its vintage charm.
Classic Antique 5 Drawer Vintage Mahogany Desk — Indulge in timeless elegance with Anjar’s Antique 5 Drawers Desk, an exquisite piece that merges vintage charm with modern functionality.
Vintage Rustic Brown Writing Desk with 4 Drawers — Experience the charm of vintage with this sturdy, 4-drawer writing desk, perfect for workspace organization and storage with a rustic brown finish.
Vintage Style Computer Workspace with Old Wood Color — Upgrade your workspace with our stylish vintage-style computer desk, featuring ample storage and a sturdy particle board and iron frame construction.

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Reviews

Harbor Point Vintage 60-Inch Antique Desk

The Harbor Point Vintage storage desk from Greyson Living is a charming addition to any home office. Handcrafted with antique cobblestone white finish, this desk exudes a rustic yet sophisticated vibe. It showcases an intricate English dovetail jointery on the drawers, which adds to its vintage style.

This sturdy desk features four drawers, with a deep hanging file drawer that can accommodate letter and legal size files, making it a perfect choice for paper storage. The drawers glide smoothly on full extension roller bearing side guides, offering easy access to files.

One of the standout features of this desk is the presence of concealed USB ports and electrical outlets on the top, adding convenience to your work routine. The antique metal knobs on the drawers give it a vintage charm. Moreover, the back of the desk is finished, giving you the freedom to position it however you like in your room.

Despite its excellent features, setting up this desk requires some assembly and accessories are not included. But overall, the Harbor Point Vintage storage desk is a stunning piece that combines functionality and vintage aesthetics.

Whitley Antique Desk — Vintage Elegance and Storage Space

I’ve recently given the Whitley Antique Desk by Ashley a try, and I must say, it brings a vintage touch to any workspace. It’s simple yet elegant, with an off white finish that adds an air of sophistication. The intricate design on the sides adds to its charm, and the spacious desk provides ample work surface and adequate storage with one full length drawer.

Despite its attractive appearance, there were some drawbacks. The instructions for assembly were less than ideal, leaving me quite puzzled at times. Luckily, I managed to put it together, but it required some trial and error. There were also a couple of shipping cracks which were a bit disappointing.

On the positive side, the desk felt quite sturdy once assembled, and it matched my room’s decor perfectly. However, there were a few issues with the finishing — it smudged easily, and there were some noticeable brush strokes. I ended up giving it a little touch-up, which improved its overall look.

In conclusion, the Whitley Antique Desk by Ashley has its pros and cons. While it may require a bit of assembly patience and comes with some minor flaws, it’s overall a functional and appealing addition to any office space.

Retro Vintage Wood Computer Desk with Steel Frame — Compact Study Desk

I recently started using the Retro Wood Computer Desk with Steel Frame, and it’s become a staple in my daily routine. The sleek vintage wood color complements my room, and its compact size has made it easy to fit in my tiny apartment. The desk is stable yet lightweight, allowing me to move it around whenever I need to redecorate or rearrange my space.

The two drawers are especially convenient for storing my notebooks, pens, and other essentials, keeping my workspace clean and organized. However, I noticed a slight wobble when I use the desk for more extended periods, which could be attributed to the material used.

Despite this minor issue, the Retro Wood Computer Desk has become a reliable and attractive addition to my daily setup. Its vintage design adds a touch of class to my room, while its compact size saves me space. Overall, it’s a great purchase for anyone looking for a functional and stylish computer desk.

Vintage Nutmeg and Gunmetal Writing Desk

This exquisite writing desk by Deehome boasts a charming blend of antique nutmeg and gunmetal finishes, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any space. With its modern design and minimalist aesthetic, it’s a fantastic option for those who appreciate clean lines and functionality. Standing at 30 inches high, 46.5 inches wide, and 22 inches deep, this desk provides ample space for your work essentials.

Crafted from MDF, metal, and paper veneer, it has an under desk clearance of 9.75 inches and a desk clearance of 27.5 inches, making it a practical and stylish addition to any room.

Classic Antique 5 Drawer Vintage Mahogany Desk

I recently added the Anjar Antique 5 Drawers Desk to my home office, and let me tell you, it’s a real conversation starter. This vintage-inspired desk instantly transported me back in time with its intricate carvings and that beautiful mahogany finish. Its spacious drawers have proven to be quite handy for storing office supplies, and the classic design has become a favorite of mine.

However, I did notice that its rich wood might require some extra care to keep it looking stunning for years to come. Overall, I’m thrilled with my decision to bring this timeless piece into my workspace.

Vintage Rustic Brown Writing Desk with 4 Drawers

This vintage-inspired writing desk with four drawers offers ample storage space and a rustic brown finish. Its dimensions of 59.02 inches in length, 23.62 inches in width, and 29.53 inches in height provide a spacious tabletop for your work.

With a package weight of 123.461 lbs, it has a weight capacity of 250 lbs, ensuring durability and sturdiness. Constructed from MDF and iron, this desk is easy to assemble in just 30 minutes with all necessary tools included.

Vintage Style Computer Workspace with Old Wood Color

This vintage-style computer desk, with its old wood color, adds a touch of elegance to your workspace. Crafted from durable particle board and iron frame, this desk stands strong while blending seamlessly with any decor.

The desk features two small drawers and two large ones, offering ample storage space for your work essentials, helping keep your workspace neat and organized. Its compact size of 41.7 x 21.2 x 35.6 inches makes it a perfect fit for small rooms or offices, and it can easily support a maximum weight capacity of 220.46lbs. With the desk in your study or work space, you’ll be upgrading your workspace in style!

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our buyer’s guide for vintage desks. We understand that finding the perfect antique desk can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve outlined some key features, considerations, and general advice to keep in mind when shopping for vintage desks.

Important Features to Consider

When searching for a vintage desk, consider the following features to ensure you find the perfect piece for your space:

Style and Design: Vintage desks come in a wide variety of styles, such as roll-top, secretary, and bureau desks. Research different styles to find the one that best suits your needs and aesthetic preferences.

Materials and Condition

Materials and Condition: Vintage desks can be made of various materials, including wood, metal, and glass. Consider the durability and maintenance of the material when making your selection. Additionally, inspect the condition of the desk, looking for signs of wear, damage, or restoration work. A well-maintained antique desk will provide a more stable and durable desk surface.

Size and Shape

Size and Shape: Measure the space where you plan to place the desk and compare it to the dimensions of the vintage desk you’re considering. Ensure that the desk fits comfortably in the room and doesn’t obstruct any doorways or windows. Also, consider the shape and design of the desk to make sure it matches the style of your home or office.

Functionality and Storage

Functionality and Storage: Vintage desks often come with built-in storage compartments or a drawer. Assess your storage needs and determine if the desk you’re considering has enough space for your essentials. Additionally, consider the functionality of the desk, such as whether it has a writing surface or is designed for display purposes.

FAQ

What makes a desk vintage?

A vintage desk is typically characterized by its age, unique style, and high-quality craftsmanship. The term “vintage” refers to an item that has aged gracefully and retains its original features, giving it a distinct charm and character. A vintage desk can range from antique pieces made before 1920 to more recent mid-century designs that have become collectible over time.

When shopping for a vintage desk, one should look for details such as intricate carvings, bold decorative elements, and patina, which is a natural, evenly distributed dark or yellow discoloration on the surface of the wood due to age. These desks often feature unfinished or stripped wood, allowing you to admire the natural beauty of the wood or showcasing any scratches or imperfections that have accumulated over the years.

What are the benefits of owning a vintage desk?

A vintage desk offers several advantages over a modern piece of furniture. Firstly, the craftsmanship that went into making a vintage desk is often of a higher standard than what is available today, resulting in a sturdier and more durable piece of furniture. Vintage desks are typically made from high-quality woods and feature dovetailed joints or mortise-and-tenon construction, both of which are well-known for their strength and longevity.

Secondly, owning a vintage desk adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your space. The unique design, intricate detailing, and patina found on vintage furniture create a sense of timelessness that is hard to replicate with mass-produced, modern items. Moreover, incorporating a vintage desk into your decor can make a bold statement and help to create a rich, layered look that reflects your personal style and taste.

How can I identify a genuine vintage desk?

When shopping for a vintage desk, it’s essential to know what to look for to ensure you’re investing in an authentic piece. First and foremost, be mindful of the seller’s reputation and reviews. Deal with established and reputable sellers who specialize in vintage furniture, as they often have a wealth of knowledge and experience in identifying genuine items.

Inspect the piece carefully, looking for signs of age, such as patina, wear, and imperfections. A genuine vintage desk should have no signs of modern restoration or refurbishment, and any repairs should be done in a way that preserves the original character of the piece. Additionally, ask for a clear provenance or history of ownership whenever possible, as this can help to verify the authenticity of the item.

What are the most common styles of vintage desks?

Vintage desks come in a wide range of styles, but some of the most popular and recognizable designs include the following:

Victorian-era desks, characterized by ornate carvings, rich wood finishes, and a focus on practicality and craftsmanship;
Arts and Crafts movement desks, which typically feature clean, simple lines, natural-stained or painted wood finishes, and a focus on honest and skilled craftsmanship;
Mid-century modern desks, which often feature minimalist design, bold geometric shapes, and a focus on functionality.

Collectors and enthusiasts can find desks in a wide variety of styles, from minimalistic designs that showcase the natural beauty of the wood to ornate, decorative pieces that serve as a centerpiece in a room. The most popular styles often depend on individual taste, the era in which the desk was created, and the popularity of particular design movements during that time.

What should I consider when purchasing a vintage desk?

When shopping for a vintage desk, there are several factors to consider to ensure you find the right piece for your space and your needs. Firstly, measure the dimensions of your desired location for the desk and compare them with the size and shape of the piece you’re considering. It’s also essential to consider the desk’s sturdiness and durability, as vintage desks may not have the same level of structural support as their modern counterparts.

Additionally, think about the function and purpose of the desk. Will it primarily be used as a workspace, or is it a decorative piece that should blend in seamlessly with the rest of your furniture? Consider the available storage options, such as drawers or shelves, as they can help to keep your workspace organized and tidy. Lastly, remember to factor in the price, as vintage desks can often be more expensive than their modern equivalents due to their rarity and the craftsmanship involved in creating them.

How do I care for and maintain a vintage desk?

To ensure your vintage desk remains in good condition and lasts for many years, it’s essential to care for it properly. Start by dusting the surface regularly with a soft, dry cloth or feather duster to prevent scratches or discoloration. If the desk has a finish, be sure to use a proper furniture polish or wax to maintain the sheen and protect the surface from wear and tear.

If you notice any scratches, dents, or other damage, consider repairing or refinishing the piece. Vintage furniture restoration experts can often help to restore the item to its former glory while preserving its unique character. Lastly, avoid exposing the desk to direct sunlight, excessive moisture, or extreme temperatures, as these can cause the wood to warp, crack, or fade over time.