Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
What is the difference between a table and a desk?
1 Answer

The difference between a table and a desk is its function. The purpose of a table is to provide a surface for eating, in the case of dining tables, or resting objects, in the case of coffee, console and side and end tables. On the other hand, most people use desks as a surface for writing, reading or working. Some console tables and smaller dining tables can also function well as desks. Explore a large collection of desks and tables on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 27, 2024
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Shop for Desks and Writing Tables on 1stDibs
Antique George III English Chinoiserie Faux Bamboo Leather Top Desk
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Impressive 18th century George III desk crafted in hardwoods with the original brown tooled leather top on a case with nine drawers in front and twelve in the back, featuring bold ha...
Category
Antique 18th Century English George III Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Leather, Hardwood
Studio BBPR for Olivetti 'Spazio' Desk in Grey Coated Steel
By Studio BBPR, Olivetti
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Studio BBPR for Olivetti, 'Spazio' writing desk, coated steel, plastic, vinyl, Italy, design 1959/60, production 1960s
In 1954, Olivetti, the Italian office equipment manufacturer,...
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Steel
XXL French Mid-Century Desk
Located in London, GB
A substantial desk.
France, c1980s.
Perriand esque design, with single beam foot supporting each end.
Two drawers discretely sunk beneath the top.
PRICE LISTED IS EX-VAT.
Genera...
Category
Vintage 1980s Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Wood
Guillerme & Chambron Free-Standing Corner Desk in Dark Oak
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Guillerme et Chambron for Votre Maison, corner desk, stained oak, leather, France, 1960s.
Corner desk by French designer duo Guillerme and Chambron. This executive desk shows the fi...
Category
Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Leather, Oak
Olivetti Desk 1960's
By Olivetti
Located in Shibuya-ku, 13
Founded in the early 20th century in Italy, Olivetti is an iconic office equipment manufacturer that set new standards in industrial design.
Beyond functionality, the company consist...
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Metal
$2,400
Antique Swedish Rococo Desk with Light Blue Paint, Drawer and Curved Rococo Legs
Located in Kramfors, SE
Antique Swedish rococo desk from the late 1700s. The desk is a country house furniture in rococo style with a large drawer. Heavily curved rococo legs and also a curved table top and...
Category
Antique Late 18th Century Swedish Rococo Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Pine