John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Canadian, American, 1912-1998

John Van Koert was integral to the rise in popularity of Scandinavian modern furniture during the mid-20th century all over the United States. The Canadian-born designer’s spare walnut coffee tables and elegant armchairs, for example — particularly those that he created for North Carolina’s Drexel Furniture — reflected the influence of the era’s alluring Danish design and were prominently featured in the modern interiors of postwar American homes.

Originally from Manitoba, Van Koert moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to attend the University of Wisconsin. There he studied sculpture and trained in metalwork. Van Koert later taught design in the school’s art department. After World War II, Van Koert settled in New York City. He created jewelry for Harry Winston before shifting his focus to flatware and furniture design.

Van Koert found quick success with his flatware designs for Towle Silversmiths. His Contour set was part of the “Knife, Fork and Spoon” exhibition organized by the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis in the early 1950s. In 1954, he served as design director for the “Design in Scandinavia” exhibition, which toured Canada as well as the United States and featured hundreds of designs created in Finland, Denmark, Norway and Sweden by the likes of Kaj Franck, Ilmari Tapiovaara, Finn Juhl and others.

Van Koert kept busy over the years. Drexel embraced the clean lines of mid-century modernism during the postwar era with the Declaration collection designed by Stewart MacDougall and Kipp Stewart that featured elegant credenzas and more made in walnut, and the Profile, Casa Del Sol and Projection collections designed with sculptural shapes by Van Koert.

In the early 1960s, Van Koert created a contemporary line for Richardson-Nemschoff, a furniture manufacturer based in the designer’s former stomping grounds of Wisconsin. During the early 1970s, he partnered with Sarreid Ltd., a brand that got its start sourcing materials from Spain and Italy and bringing the exceptional talents of European wood carvers, sculptors and painters to the forefront of American home decor.

On 1stDibs, find vintage John Van Koert seating, tables and storage pieces.

Creator: John Van Koert

John Van Koert for Drexel Profile Mid Century Leather Top Walnut Desk

$2,250

John Van Koert for Drexel Profile Mid Century Leather Top Walnut Desk

By John Van Koert, Drexel

Located in Denton, TX

Strong bold design by John Van Koert for Drexel furniture. A combination of walnut and oak makes this desk a stunning vintage piece of art. The writing surface is 30.25" high.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Leather, Oak, Walnut

John Van Koert for Drexel Modern Leather Top Desk

$2,600

John Van Koert for Drexel Modern Leather Top Desk

By John Van Koert, Drexel

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Mid-century modern American made desk by Drexel featuring a leather top writing surface. Storage drawers and hiding desktop storage with sliding doors. Please confirm location with v...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Leather, Wood

Mid-Century Modern Extension Desk By John van Koert For Drexel Counterpoint

$6,400

Mid-Century Modern Extension Desk By John van Koert For Drexel Counterpoint

By Drexel, John Van Koert

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This stunning, wonderfully detailed, mid-century American desk was designed by John van Koert for Drexel's "Counterpoint" line in 1956. According to Drexel the collection was inspire...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Cherry, Mahogany

Modernist Desk by John Van Koert for Drexel, 1960s

$9,500

Modernist Desk by John Van Koert for Drexel, 1960s

By John Van Koert, Drexel

Located in Sagaponack, NY

A boldly angled modernist single pedestal desk having a distinctive raised gallery with sliding doors and a warm dark grey leather surface.

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

1950's Drexel Profile K44 Extending Dining Table by John Van Koert

$3,499

H 29.5 in W 40 in D 98 in

1950's Drexel Profile K44 Extending Dining Table by John Van Koert

By John Van Koert, Edward Wormley, Drexel

Located in Chattanooga, TN

This Drexel Profile Model K44 extending dining table is both striking in scale and versatile in function. Its walnut and pecan top, supported by robust metal glides, opens effortless...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Fruitwood, Walnut

Large John Van Koert coffee Table

$1,650

H 16 in Dm 38 in

Large John Van Koert coffee Table

By Drexel, John Van Koert

Located in South Charleston, WV

38" wide x 16" tall, large walnut coffee table. John Van Korea for Drexel. This table has been refinished but maintains two flaws (photographed and shown in video), otherwise excelle...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut

Rosewood and Chrome Drexel Index Writing Desk Library Table, circa 1970s

$2,400

H 30 in W 60 in D 30 in

Rosewood and Chrome Drexel Index Writing Desk Library Table, circa 1970s

By Drexel, Milo Baughman

Located in New York, NY

Stunning midcentury, Hollywood Regency, Post Modern design writing table, desk, made by Drexel as part of their Index series, possibly designed by Milo Baughman, circa 1960/1970s. T...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Chrome

1960's English Regency Style Pecan Desk Console by Thomasville

$2,726Sale Price|22% Off

H 29 in W 61.88 in D 25 in

1960's English Regency Style Pecan Desk Console by Thomasville

By Tommi Parzinger, Thomasville

Located in Chattanooga, TN

This English Regency style pecan writing desk by Thomasville would be perfect in any room. Desk, console, or entryway table to name a few. The stain / tone appears to be in the fam...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Modern "Biscayne" Floating Top Walnut Desk by Drexel

$5,400

H 34.5 in W 55.75 in D 31.5 in

Mid-Century Modern "Biscayne" Floating Top Walnut Desk by Drexel

By Milo Baughman, Drexel

Located in North Hollywood, CA

This exceptional floating top walnut desk by Drexel represents the pinnacle of 1960s American modernist design. Part of the distinguished Biscayne collection, this piece draws clear ...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

French Louis XV Style Leather Top Writing Desk with Matching Desk Chair

$2,800

H 29.75 in W 53.25 in D 27.25 in

French Louis XV Style Leather Top Writing Desk with Matching Desk Chair

By Drexel

Located in Hopewell, NJ

This lovely Drexel vintage writing desk in the French Louis XV style includes a matching Louis XV style chair and displays lovely French Provincial style having curvaceous cabriole l...

Category

1970s American Louis XV Vintage John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Cane, Wood

Teak 'Propos' Floating Top Desk by Louis van Teeffelen for Hulmefa

On Hold|~~$3,250~~

H 29.75 in W 29.25 in D 68.5 in

Teak 'Propos' Floating Top Desk by Louis van Teeffelen for Hulmefa

By Louis Van Teeffelen, Hulmefa, Tijsseling

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Produced by Hulmefa as part of their 'Propos' line, this Dutch Mid-Century desk was designed by Louis van Teeffelen in collaboration with the Tijsseling company. The top surface feat...

Category

1960s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Vintage John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Teak

Iconic Mid Century Desk by John Van Koert for Drexel c. 1960's

$2,800

H 35.5 in W 53.75 in D 29 in

Iconic Mid Century Desk by John Van Koert for Drexel c. 1960's

By Drexel, John Van Koert

Located in New York, NY

Classic Mid Century desk, designed by John Van Koert for Drexel, circa 1960's. This stylish desk features a two tier top, the upper section having two sliding doors, that open to rev...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Leather, Wood

John Van Koert Designed 'Counterpoint' for Drexel

$2,000

H 30.5 in W 60.25 in D 20 in

John Van Koert Designed 'Counterpoint' for Drexel

By Drexel, John Van Koert

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Great mid-century design by John Van Koert with luxurious mahogany, blended with wild-grained cherry wood. Inset hardware, rounded lines and tapered legs. Six drawers and center cabi...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood, Cherry

Drexel Sandia Collection Jacobean Drop-Front Desk

$3,500

H 37.5 in W 37 in D 17.25 in

Drexel Sandia Collection Jacobean Drop-Front Desk

By Drexel

Located in Chicago, IL

Drexel drop front desk from the Sandia Collection, circa 1960s. Interesting writing desk marrying the form of a Govenor Winthrop drop front desk with early English Jacobean...

Category

1970s American Vintage John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

John Van Koert Drexel Profile Desk Vanity with Original Chair c 1950's

$799 / set

H 31.75 in W 30.25 in D 18 in

John Van Koert Drexel Profile Desk Vanity with Original Chair c 1950's

By Drexel, John Van Koert

Located in New York, NY

Classic American Mid Century Modern writing desk / vanity designed by John Van Koert for Drexel as part of the sought after Profile series, circa later 1950's. The desk features one ...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

John Van Koert Mid-Century Modern Extension Dining Table, Newly Refinished

$5,995

H 29.25 in W 86 in D 40 in

John Van Koert Mid-Century Modern Extension Dining Table, Newly Refinished

By Drexel, John Van Koert

Located in South Bend, IN

A sleek and stylish Mid-Century Modern sculpted walnut extension dining table By John Van Koert for Drexel, "Profile" Collection USA, 1956 Measures: 62"W x 40"D x 29.25"H. Extends...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut

Previously Available Items

Mid-Century Drexel Profile Desk by John Van Koert

Sold

H 34.5 in W 34.5 in D 27 in

Mid-Century Drexel Profile Desk by John Van Koert

By John Van Koert, Drexel

Located in Raleigh, NC

Mid-century small-scale desk manufactured by Drexel Furniture, circa 1960s. This desk is a part of Drexel’s ‘Profile’ furniture line and desig...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Mid Century Walnut Writing Desk by John Van Koert for Drexel, 1960s

Sold

H 29.75 in W 44 in D 20.75 in

Mid Century Walnut Writing Desk by John Van Koert for Drexel, 1960s

By Drexel, John Van Koert

Located in North Hollywood, CA

Mid century walnut writing desk designed by John Van Koert and manufactured by Drexel in the United States circa 1960s. Made from high-quality walnut, this desk radiates elegance and...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

John Van Koert for Drexel Profile Mid Century Leather Top Walnut Desk

Sold

H 35.63 in W 54 in D 33.25 in

John Van Koert for Drexel Profile Mid Century Leather Top Walnut Desk

By Drexel, John Van Koert

Located in Denton, TX

Strong bold design by John Van Koert for Drexel furniture. A combination of walnut and oak makes this desk a stunning vintage piece of art. The writing surface is 30.25" high.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Leather, Oak, Walnut

John Van Koert Walnut Leather Top Desk for Drexel, c.1965

Sold

H 35.5 in W 54 in D 32.88 in

John Van Koert Walnut Leather Top Desk for Drexel, c.1965

By Drexel, John Van Koert

Located in San Juan Capistrano, CA

John Van Koert Walnut Leather Top Desk for Drexel, c.1965. This piece has been professionally restored.

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Steel

A John Von Koert for Drexel mid century modern walnut tambour Profile Desk

Sold

H 34.5 in W 34.5 in D 27 in

A John Von Koert for Drexel mid century modern walnut tambour Profile Desk

By Drexel, John Van Koert

Located in Philadelphia, PA

A John Von Koert for Drexel mid century modern walnut tambour Profile Desk and matching chair.

Category

Mid-20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut

John Van Koert for Drexel Profile Black Lacquered Writing Desk, Newly Refinished

Sold

H 29.75 in W 44 in D 20.75 in

John Van Koert for Drexel Profile Black Lacquered Writing Desk, Newly Refinished

By Drexel, John Van Koert

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional Mid-Century Modern writing desk By John Van Koert for Drexel, "Profile" Collection USA, 1950s Black lacquered walnut, with original brass hardware. Measure...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

John Van Koert for Drexel Profile Mid Century Leather Top Walnut Desk

Sold

H 35.5 in W 53.75 in D 33 in

John Van Koert for Drexel Profile Mid Century Leather Top Walnut Desk

By Drexel, John Van Koert

Located in Franklin Park, IL

John Van Koert for Drexel Profile mid century leather top walnut desk This desk measures: 53.75 wide x 33 deep x 35.5 high, with a chair clearance of 25.5 inches All pieces of ...

Category

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Chrome

Drexel Profile Writing Desk or Entryway Table

Sold

H 32 in W 30 in D 18.5 in

Drexel Profile Writing Desk or Entryway Table

By Drexel, John Van Koert

Located in Charleston, SC

Vintage Mid-Century Modern vanity desk for your consideration. Designed by John Van Koert for Drexel in the 1950's, and part of the Profile series. This vanity/ single drawer writing desk/ console table is rare, and is in its original finish with the original glass top. It has a single drawer with the original pull handle, and has the Drexel stamp of authentication. It has a sleek and clean design with an upper signature lip at the top, and tapered legs. The woodwork and craftsmanship are truly visible throughout the design from the back being finished to the back walnut stretcher that tapers. It's made of find walnut, and is in beautiful condition. It's a great piece that would also make a wonderful console table. Drexel profile...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut

1950's John Van Koert Drexel Vanity Desk

Sold

H 32 in W 30.25 in D 18.5 in

1950's John Van Koert Drexel Vanity Desk

By John Van Koert

Located in Burbank, CA

Vintage Mid-Century Modern vanity desk for sale. Designed by John Van Koert for Drexel in the 1950's, and part of the Profile series. This vanity de...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut

John Van Koert Writing Desk for Drexel, Tambour Roll Top

Sold

H 34.5 in W 34 in D 26 in

John Van Koert Writing Desk for Drexel, Tambour Roll Top

By John Van Koert, Drexel

Located in Buffalo, NY

Designer: John Van Koert Manufacturer: Drexel “Profile” Period/Style: Mid Century Modern Country: United States Date: 1950's.................. WHITE LACQUER TAMBOUR DOOR ROOL TOP...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

John Van Koert for Drexel Profile Black Lacquered Writing Desk, Newly Refinished

Sold

H 29.25 in W 30 in

John Van Koert for Drexel Profile Black Lacquered Writing Desk, Newly Refinished

By Drexel, John Van Koert

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional Mid-Century Modern writing desk By John Van Koert for Drexel, "Profile" Collection USA, 1950s Black lacquered walnut, with original brass hardware. Measure...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

John Van Koert for Drexel Mid Century Desk

Sold

H 29.75 in W 44 in D 20.75 in

John Van Koert for Drexel Mid Century Desk

By John Van Koert, Drexel

Located in Franklin Park, IL

John Van Koert for Drexel mid century desk This desk measures: 44 wide x 20.75 deep x 29.75 inches high, with a chair clearance of 24.25 inc...

Category

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage John Van Koert Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

John Van Koert desks and writing tables for sale on 1stDibs.

John Van Koert desks and writing tables are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of John Van Koert desks and writing tables, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original desks and writing tables by John Van Koert were created in the mid-century modern style in north america during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider desks and writing tables by T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings, John Stuart, and Milo Baughman. Prices for John Van Koert desks and writing tables can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $1,850 and can go as high as $9,500, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $4,250.