Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
What's the difference between a desk and a writing table?
1 Answer
Desks typically include drawers or storage compartments, while writing tables (and secretary desks) offer a flatter surface with little to no built-in storage.
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2026
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Shop for Desks and Writing Tables on 1stDibs
Architects Drawing Board By Kuhlmann Circa 1950s
Located in Gloucester, GB
Architects Drawing Board By Kuhlmann Circa 1950s
- Articulated cast iron base
- Height adjustable and pivotable
- Pine board
- The rear side of the board is covered in a collection...
Category
Vintage 1950s German Industrial Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Cast Iron
German Industrial Architects Drawing Table by HUHAG Circa 1920s
Located in Gloucester, GB
German Industrial Architects Drawing Table by HUHAG Circa 1920s
- Cast iron frame
- Adjustable pine drawing board
- Working mechanical height and tilt adjustment system
- Integrate...
Category
Vintage 1920s German Industrial Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Cast Iron
Antique French Oak Renaissance Revival DOLPHIN Writing Table Desk c. 1880s
Located in Tyler, TX
GORGEOUS Antique French Oak Renaissance Revival DOLPHIN Writing Table or Desk, c. 1880s
Exceptional late 19th century French oak writing table featuring elaborate Renaissance Reviva...
Category
Antique 1880s French Renaissance Revival Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Oak
Architects Drawing Board By Othello Circa 1930s
Located in Gloucester, GB
Architects Drawing Board By Othello Circa 1930s
- Articulated cast iron base
- Working mechanical height and tilt adjustment system
- Pine drawing board
- Integrated wooden storage ...
Category
Vintage 1930s German Industrial Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Cast Iron
Italian Mid-Century Modern 1950s Sculptural Writing Desk in Mahogany
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Writing desk, mahogany, glass, Italy, 1950s
This exceptional Italian desk from the 1950s embodies the sophistication and expressive freedom that defined the finest mid-century desig...
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Glass, Mahogany
Unique Italian Mid-Century Art Deco Walnut Burl Wood Writing Desk Table
Located in Carimate, Como
Unique and beautiful Italian desk writing table, in beautiful veneer burl wood forming great decors from different veins, with the 2 leveled top and drawers standing on the four eleg...
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Art Deco Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Wood
