3. Secretary desk. The antique wood, slim profile and height of this practical piece work well in all kinds of spaces. Secretary desks are versatile because the desktop closes up and therefore doesn’t protrude into the room very far. Also, when closed, they hide any clutter or mess. This comes in handy when a room is doing double duty as an office, as you see in this bedroom — no one wants to look at a pile of work or bills on the desk when trying to fall asleep in a bedroom or entertain in the living room. My sister-in-law has an antique secretary desk in her kitchen, and it works with the depth of the cabinets perfectly while adding loads of character.