Vintage and retro desks, second hand: classics in wood and metal

1 4

A vintage desk is where you sit every day. A vintage desk also brings history with it: teak from Denmark, tubular steel in the Bauhaus tradition or the system furniture of the office planners of the 1960s. At 2nd home you will find second hand and retro desks, small ones for a niche, in wood or in metal, in white or in dark teak. Many of them have more character than a new desk from a catalogue.

At 2nd home you will find desks by well known designers and manufacturers, for example the Home Desk by George Nelson and the Desk Unit EDU by Charles and Ray Eames, both by Vitra. The Eames Desks and Storage Units first appeared at Herman Miller in 1949. Herman Miller also made the Action Office I programme, launched in 1964. Add to that pieces such as the Table Desk by Florence Knoll for Knoll International, teak desks from Denmark, desks by Erik Brouer and by Ib Kofod-Larsen for Fredericia, the Seq by Charles O. Job for Mox, drawing tables by Trekanten and Bauhaus desks in tubular steel.

USM Haller is a chapter of its own. Fritz Haller and Paul Schärer began developing a furniture system of steel modules in 1962, and the patent for its connecting ball was filed in 1965. Besides USM desks, 2nd home also offers USM pedestals on castors that fit next to your workspace as storage.

What to look for in a used desk: the top shows scratches, water rings and burn marks first, and on veneer also spots where it is lifting. Drawers should run smoothly without jamming, and locks need a matching key. If the frame wobbles, check whether screws just need tightening or whether joints have come loose. Measure height, width and legroom beforehand and check that your chair fits underneath.

To go with it, browse office furniture, office chairs, secretary desks for small rooms and all pieces by USM Haller and Herman Miller.

Buying a vintage desk: working height, drawers and space

  • With a vintage desk, working height, depth of the top and drawers count. Every desk is described with condition, dimensions and photos, including signs of wear on the top. The right chair is among the office chairs, more for working among the office furniture and for small rooms secretaries. Shipping is insured, large pieces travel by freight.

1 2

Frequently asked questions and answers

Which models of vintage desks are included in the collection?

Our selection includes desks by Marcel Breuer for Thonet, modular models by USM Haller, and mid-century teak desks—each model offers a unique aesthetic and functionality.

Which work areas are these desks suitable for?

They are ideal for home offices, offices and creative workspaces where function and design are equally important.

What materials are used?

How do I integrate a vintage desk into my work environment?

Combine it with matching office chairs and accent furniture to create a harmonious and inspiring work environment. Ensure a balanced mix of classic and modern elements.

How do I care for my vintage desk?

Clean wooden surfaces regularly with a soft, slightly damp cloth and treat them with a suitable wood oil. Metal parts should be treated with a mild cleaner to prevent scratches and oxidation.

  • curation, selection and active search

    Every product you find on 2nd home comes from our curation and quality process . This includes our vintage Vintage Desks .

    Our team is constantly looking for trends and new items to offer you high-quality vintage and second-hand goods and plenty of inspiration.

    And if you are looking for something specific, you can contact us at any time.

  • Delivery

    At 2nd home you buy what already exists: our furniture , carpets , lights and decorative objects are available and ready to ship, with no production lead time as with new furniture. Another advantage when you buy vintage and second hand.

    For more information about shipping and delivery , see Returns & Refunds .

  • service

    At 2nd home we place great importance on quality and customer satisfaction. Sellers are selected by 2nd home, and every piece is described with its condition, dimensions and photos.

    If you have any questions, our customer service will help you You can find further information about our buyer protection, legal guarantee and right of return in our cancellation policy .

  • Pre-owned instead of new

    Every piece has already been made and stays in use; there is no new production.

1 4