Oct 28 2008
Home Office: Old metal desk can be work of art
Finding a unique office desk is a challenge. The desk you choose will depend upon the size of your home office. It is fortunate when you find the right desk and you have the room to use it.
Old metal desks are popular. These desks are huge and very heavy. I am amused at the irony – I have one of these desks and I have disliked it for years. Thankfully the desk is located at my business and not in my home office.
I read once that these metal desks can be refinished into a true work of art. Someday I would love to make mine as beautiful as the one I saw in those pictures.
The metal desk was taken to an auto body shop. There it was stripped, primed and painted just as a car would be. The finish was beautiful and very durable. In case you decide to try this yourself be ready to pay several hundred dollars – so pick your color well. The cost will be determined by your location.
The old leather-like top is another story. A furniture restorer may have advice on how to save it. Sometimes treating it with leather softener works but honestly I’d rather just clean it up and cover it with a thick piece of tempered glass. Extra storage space can be found underneath the glass so its function is doubled.
Consider one of these desks when setting up or remodeling a home office. They are plentiful and often can be purchased for very little cash. You will save a relic from the past while making gaining a beauty to use into the future.
