How I cherish a writing desk; it evokes memories of simpler days when corresponding through handwritten letters brought feelings of eager anticipation, excitement, romance, and profound contemplation.
In my formative years, my grandparents, residing in Michigan, embarked on their annual winter journey to Florida. Each year, like clockwork, post-Thanksgiving, they made their way to the Gulf Coast, where pristine white beaches and abundant seashells awaited.
On a few occasions, my parents loaded our family of six into our station wagon and drove us to visit them during our school’s spring break.
Those times spent with my grandparents were truly special.
My grandmother would indulge me in conversations about seashells and parakeets, both of which held me in fascination.
Throughout the long Michigan winters, I eagerly awaited the arrival of a letter from my grandmother. In these letters, she would recount the weather, the pleasure of plucking fresh oranges from their backyard tree, my grandfather’s freshly squeezed orange juice, her latest projects in their Florida home, the breathtaking sunsets at the beach, and the delightful parakeets.
A writing desk summons such sweet recollections.
I envision her sitting down, taking out her beautiful stationery, and contemplating what to convey to her young granddaughter. She’d appear in my mind wearing her exquisitely tailored Bermuda shorts and a coordinating top, adorned jeweled sandals, her hair elegantly pinned back with a diamond barrette, all while gazing out the window as she penned her letters to me.
I’m not entirely certain whether she comprehended how much I treasured those letters when I received them in the midst of Michigan’s harsh winters. Nevertheless, I’m profoundly grateful for these cherished memories of simpler times when handwritten letters brought immense joy and emotion.
That, to me, is the essence of what this writing desk signifies.
From a practical standpoint, the design of a writing desk offers a flat and functional work surface, complemented by one or two drawers for storage, making it a visually pleasing addition to virtually any room. It provides ample room for a laptop, notebook, and, of course, the act of composing a heartfelt letter.
Introducing a writing desk to various corners of a living room, near a window, positioned behind a sofa, in an entryway, or within a bedroom, can infuse an elegant touch to these spaces.
I hold a particular fondness for this desk due to its embodiment of a timeless Neoclassical style that emerged during the latter half of the eighteenth century. This style marked a departure from the opulence of the Rococo era, favoring a deep appreciation for the Greek and Roman antiquity.
Cabinet makers of this period re-embraced the clean lines and ornamental motifs of classical architecture, incorporating elements such as Greek frets and Vitruvian volutes. The décor featured intricate golden embellishments in the form of festoons, urns, and medallions.
The craftsmanship displayed here is truly remarkable.
The dedication and skill that go into crafting these exquisite handmade pieces transform them into cherished heirlooms, allowing us to shape our own unique history, which we can share with both present and future generations.
Classic design and architecture possess an enduring elegance, remaining eternally captivating within interior spaces. I take delight in incorporating these pieces into interiors, as they not only touch upon the sentiment and history of bygone eras but also introduce a subtle air of mystery and contemplation into our lives.
INSPIRATION VERSE
Living a life of freedom; a beautiful life of love, peace and joy is what we all hope for. Letting go of fear, anger, resentment, offense and bitterness is our choice. With God the fruit we receive and give to others is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness and self-control.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other”.
Galatians 5
Virginia Wright
Inspirato Interiors
Atlanta Interior Designer
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