Many homeowners have one central place where they collect mail, keep office supplies, pay bills, house a computer and generally take care of the ‘business’ of running a home. Some are lucky enough to have enough rooms to have an actual office in the home. Others make due by setting up an area in a larger room where these tasks can be accomplished. For this situation, consider using a secretary desk with hutch as the hub of the business functions for the home.
The classic style of a drop front secretary desk has a base with wide drawers, which are topped with a hinged desk surface which lifts up to close. This is usually topped with the hutch part which looks somewhat like a bookcase with doors. This allows the piece to be somewhat ‘closed’ up, which is perfect for offering storage without showing off all the clutter that might collect. Many are much narrower than one might expect. It is not uncommon to see secretary desk with hutch attachment used as a decorative piece instead of a functional one, but it can certainly serve its intended purpose and add some flair to a space. Often you will find that an associated chair is not left next to this piece in a traditional way, but rather set next to it, or in the general vicinity, and is pulled up next to the piece only when it is open and in use. The chair can be a matching item, or a completely contrasting one.
As with all furniture items, there are a number of models available. It is important to find one that both fits the décor of your home, and also offers enough storage space to house all the necessities. For those opting to go with a computer desk with hutch, you’ll find that it comes with pre-drilled holes for all cables and other hook up necessities. It also will likely have a spot specifically built to house a printer. Some of these models look more like the traditional secretary desk with hutch, while others have a more open feel.
Even though this piece is intended to be about the ‘business’ of the household, this does not mean that it cannot also have a sense of style. In fact, if chosen carefully, it can be a statement piece for the room. For example, in some houses, a mahogany secretary desk might be the perfect addition. Depending on the style selected, it might have an antique, old world feel, or it might be very sleek and modern. Consider looking at a hand panted secretary desk. You’ll find these in a variety of designs, ranging from stenciled patterns to elaborate floral motifs. Don’t be overly concerned with matching wood stain colors. It is perfectly fine to have a unique piece that does not match the rest of the stain in the room.
Don’t be overwhelmed by the sheer number of secretary desks with hutch attachments. Because this is a rather unique item, shop a bit before committing so you can see what is available. You might fall in love with a style that is completely different from anything else you own, and yet still works in the space. As with any piece of furniture, be sure to take measurements before shopping. This will help narrow down the selection and also prevent you from purchasing something that will not work in the area intended.
