The secretary is a classic piece of furniture that has stood the test of time, adapting to the changing needs of its owners. This versatile piece of furniture has a lot to offer, both in terms of history and functionality. Let's find out what makes the secretary so special.
The secretary's story
The secretary has its roots in 18th-century aristocracy, at a time when written correspondence was an essential part of daily life. Originally created for intellectual personalities and reserved for the wealthy classes, this piece of furniture serves as both a workspace and storage space for important documents.
Evolution through the ages
The secretary desk has never ceased to evolve, incorporating stylistic and functional elements appropriate to each era. With the advent of modern technology, new compartments have been designed to accommodate computers and other electronic devices, making this piece of furniture more relevant than ever.
Secretary functions
A writing space
The secretary's most distinctive feature is its fold-down top, which provides a practical space for writing and working. Once designed with plenty of drawers to store pens, notebooks and sheets, today's secretary is more office-oriented, with easily accessible storage for laptops, smartphones, scanners and printers. The niche protects against too much side light and makes it easy to read the screens it houses.
Optimized storage
With numerous drawers to keep documents safe, the 19th and 20th century secretary is still in regular use. You can find them at our sister brand, Maison GONTIER. Mon Petit Meuble Français offers contemporary, designer secretaries with storage blocks and a shelf in the niche behind the flap. Supplied with 2 storage blocks as standard, you can choose to keep only one or none by unscrewing the 2 blocks from underneath. The shelves inside the blocks are also height-adjustable. Behind the lower doors, you can store your printer and/or scanner. A central vertical divider behind the doors divides the space in 2. We can shift this divider to the right or left if you need more space to house your device.
Cable channels are provided on each level, so you can run your wires out the back of the cabinet and plug them into the wall outlets.
Polyvalence
Our models can incorporate additional functions, so please let us know your requirements. The inside of the flap can be laser-engraved for a personalized message or name. Power strips can be added. Castors with brakes can be added under the legs. LED strip lighting can bring a little light into the niche, for example.
The secretary in a modern interior
Even if this piece of furniture comes from an earlier era, the secretary desk fits perfectly into modern interiors. Depending on the style (antique, modern, industrial), it can either become a focal point in a room, or blend discreetly into the décor.
Material selection and durability
Solid wood has long been the material of choice for secretaries, not least because of its strength, durability and natural elegance. Whether it's oak, cherry, ash or any other noble wood species, a solid wood secretary brings a touch of quality and refinement to any space.
Petit rappel des avantages du bois massif
Durability: solid wood furniture is designed to last for generations. With proper care, it can even improve over time, acquiring a unique patina.
Aesthetics: wood's natural grain provides a rich texture and color, which can be accentuated by different types of finish, from natural wax to varnish.
Long-term value: although solid wood furniture may represent a higher initial investment, its longevity and sturdiness make it a profitable choice in the long term.
Ecology: solid wood furniture can be made from wood from sustainably managed forests, making it a more environmentally-friendly option.
Solid wood care
Gentle cleaning: use a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the wood finish.
Polishing: regular polishing with a specific wax or varnish can help maintain the wood's lustre and protection.
Protection from the elements: avoid exposing furniture to direct sources of heat or sunlight, which can dry out and crack wood fibers, or cause discoloration.
The secretary desk: the ideal choice for teleworking
Teleworking has become an integral part of modern life and our working week. The recent changes in the way we work are here to stay, and are unlikely to be reversed any time soon. In this respect, secretary furniture offers an ideal solution for those seeking to balance work and personal life, while remaining in the comfort of their own home.
A desk to suit your lifestyle
The secretary is experiencing a resurgence in interest with the development of home working. It offers the possibility of having one's own "corner", with the flexibility of being able to close off one's workspace after office hours. It provides a clear and welcome separation between the professional and private spheres, even within the same space.
The latest innovations
Companies like MON PETIT MEUBLE FRANÇAIS offer innovative secretary desks, both in design and functionality. For example, their models feature innovative fittings, flap hinges different from the usual compass hinges, enabling the full surface area of the desk to be used, and are just as resistant. What's more, they control cable routing between levels and to the rear, making it easier to organize electronic devices such as screens or printers. The design by Eric Gizard, Paris, is at the cutting edge of what's being done today, the proportions are exceptional and you'll enjoy contemplating your piece of furniture every day.
Personalization
Customization is another major advantage. You can choose between ash and oak wood species. 2 standard widths, 90 cm / 35.4" and 120 cm / 47.2" , allow you to make the most of the space you have available. And if you'd like a width of 75 cm / 29.5" or 124 cm / 48.8" ... that's possible too. Choose your preferred color from the 11 colors + black available. We want this piece of furniture to be YOUR secretary to fit in perfectly with your home workspace.