The chair gets a lot of attention in design books and from collectors, with good reason. We also think that desk design is a unique and excting space where designers have added flourish to a functional object, elevated by materials selection and the styling preferences of an age. Here are 10 of our favourites.
In particular, mid-century desks continue to captivate design enthusiasts and collectors for their perfect balance of form and function. Created during a post-war era of optimism and innovation, these pieces embody the ideals of modern living — simplicity, honesty in materials, and meticulous craftsmanship. Designers such as Arne Vodder, Finn Juhl, Sergio Rodrigues, Fabricius & Kastholm and Peter Lovig Nielsen each offered distinctive interpretations that continue to shape how we think about workspace design today.
The enduring appeal of mid-century desks lies in their elegant restraint. Clean lines, organic forms, and refined timber details – often crafted in teak or rosewood – combine practicality with sculptural beauty. Floating desktops, tapered legs, and seamlessly integrated drawers give a sense of lightness and proportion that feels as fresh now as it did in the 1950s. Desks such as Vodder’s Model 75 for Sibast or Lovig Nielsen’s iconic flip-top design demonstrate how functional considerations could become expressions of artistry.
Beyond their visual qualities, these pieces endure because they were built with integrity. The craftsmanship of Scandinavian and Brazilian makers was exceptional, favouring traditional joinery, solid timbers, and natural finishes over mass production. As a result, many mid-century desks have aged gracefully, their rich patina enhancing rather than diminishing their appeal.
In an era when many people are reimagining their workspaces, the attraction of these desks has only grown. They bring warmth, clarity, and timeless style to modern environments, embodying a calm focus that resonates in today’s fast-paced world. Whether it’s the bold curves of Rodrigues, the precision of Fabricius & Kastholm, or the understated elegance of Vodder, mid-century desks remain enduring icons – reminders that good design is both purposeful and poetic.
View our current range of curated mid-century and contemporary designer desks here.