The writing bureau, known more simply as a “bureau”, began life in France in the 17^th Century. The bureaus simple design consists of a table which usually has drawers located underneath, the purpose of this table was more as a writing desk where one could sit and write letters or in their diary and have access to stored away pens and paper. Over time the writing bureau has been modified to feature either leg space by removing the drawers or a wooden flap lid to hide away work and act as a table top when down. This form of bureau is the most common seen today, and is usually located in people’s small home office or as a feature in the living room. The writing bureau has become more of an iconic feature in a home than a practical piece of furniture, yet it is still a useful piece of furniture to store away stationary whilst adding some class and style to your room.

Writing bureaux tended to be made of luxury hard wood like mahogany or teak wood back in the day as they were only owned by the wealthy people. These wooden bureau are now more likely to be found in people’s homes as an antique piece of furniture that has been past down and usually have a high value. More commonly today writing bureau are either made from pine or oak however a mahogany bureau can still be found.

Pine bureau are the cheapest and can be bought for a couple of hundred pounds, they also blend better in traditional family homes as the pine wood matches other styles of furniture. For those with more money or wanting a better quality wooden bureau an oak bureau may be better. These hardwood bureaus are tougher and higher quality and also look great in the traditional or contemporary home. For a range of styles of writing bureau in oak, pine, French or mahogany check out our dedicated site to writing bureaus.