My Desk’s Been in My Family for Four Generations — Shop the Vintage Look

For as long as I can remember, my parents’ garage has functioned as a large-scale junk drawer equivalent (sorry for the overshare if you’re reading this, Mom and Dad!). But when I came back home to Louisville, Kentucky, during the summer of 2020, I noticed something new stuffed between the cars, family bikes, lawn equipment, and high-piled odds and ends: a desk. And not just any desk — a vintage wood writing desk with brass drawer pulls and dramatic curved legs. 

Stunned, I asked my mom where this piece came from and how I’d never seen it, to which she nonchalantly divulged that it was her childhood desk — originally belonging to my great-grandmother — and clearly unbeknownst to me, we’ve apparently always had it. I instantly loved it, needed it, and somehow, some way, would get it to my then desk-less New York apartment.

After a bit of sibling squabbling (my brother initially claimed it for his first post-grad apartment), I eventually inherited the desk. My family visited in July 2021 and drove it, along with my bike, 750+ miles from Kentucky. Since then, it’s been my steadfast (and, naturally, stylish) WFH foundation, with a deceptively deep inner drawer, to boot. Looks-wise, the heirloom piece does show some up-close wear and tear — including small stick figures a younger version of my mom rather unceremoniously carved into it — yet, it’s hands-down my most prized furniture possession. I absolutely love how the timeless design juxtaposes with the more modern furniture and decor in my bedroom, too. 

I’m intrigued by traditional writing desk styles, in general, because they’re conducive to a decently sized workspace, but, historically, have relatively compact footprints overall. Sadly, though, they really just don’t make ‘em like they used to (I mean, those curved legs!). That’s why I took it upon myself to round up six similar vintage-inspired writing and secretary desk styles to bring home your own family heirloom lookalike. Of course, you can source true, one-of-a-kind antique styles from sites like Chairish, 1stDibs, Etsy, and more, but expect to pay upwards of $1,000. All of the below desks, starting at just $220, cater to small spaces specifically with a range of styles, dimensions, and storage options.