Roll Top Desks

"Do you think I have forgotten you entirely? You don't know, dear Mary, how many letters I have written you in thought." So begins an example from Emily Post's chapter on letter writing, a great art that Ms. Post bemoans is falling by the wayside. While handwritten letters may indeed be giving way to e-mails and phone conversations, the roll-top desk reminds us that the romantic practice of letter writing is still popular today.

Classic construction

The design of the 19th-century roll-top desk has remained relatively unchanged throughout time. Cubby holes and small drawers abound to create an intricate filing system for all of those little objects like paper clips and erasers. Roll-top desks are created from a variety of woods, making it possible for today's buyer to choose the best desk for the job. One of the major innovations in roll-top desk design is size. The roll-top desks of yesteryear were formidable pieces of furniture, but roll-top desks today are being created to fit even small spaces.

Computer Control

"I know you and Frank were planning to disconnect me, and I'm afraid that's something I cannot allow to happen." This is Hal, the conscious computer, speaking to Dave Bowman in "2001: A Space Odyssey." Today, when more homes seem to have personal computers than family dogs, roll-top desks take on a contemporary function in providing a welcome escape from the ever-present glow of a computer screen. Most roll-top desks being made today are designed with computers in mind, complete with compartments for storing away the tower and printer.

Whether you are looking to contain your computer with a roll-top computer desk design, or looking to incorporate a letter-writing station into your home, the roll-top desk provides classic good looks.