I don't like the hinges that are holding the fold down writing surface section. The connection to the table looks like it will pull out from the surface easily. I have seen this issue in other pieces as I've looked around over the years. I like a secretary to have rails that come out to support the writing surface from underneath. You can see the rails that are extended under the writing surface on the left side of this secretary. The rail has a brass knob at the end, though the mechanism automatically extends these rails without needing to pull them out.

I have a secretary topped with a bookcase. I love it. It is my favorite piece of furniture.

@cacocobird, it your secretary a Pottery Barn secretary?

No, it's Pennsylvania House. I think the pottery barn one looks nice.

thanks cacocobird. Yes the pottery barn looks nice, but I don't like the bracing for the writing surface with the attachments on the surface and no support below. The surface is probably veneered particle board and will not be able to hold that attachment. I've seen things like that pulled apart on furniture. This is just my experience though.

I checked into the small secretary by Ballard Designs, the Eastman. But the desk, floor to desk top, is 32 inches. Too high to feel comfortable. I emailed the company and was told that secretaries are designed for bill-paying, not long term computing, implying that 32 inches is fine for short-term use. I liked some of their other models, esp the ones made in Italy, but the disappointing reviews and limited storage space gave me pause. Beautiful but not as functional as I need.

yes, those near me would need to be updated and parts removed and restored. painted or brought back to mint condition via staining, sanding, etc. our antique stores tend to be more like second hand stores than true antique stores. That said, and after much research and weighing of pros and cons, I ordered the PB small secretary, antique white. Though not tipping the scales in beauty, I'm hoping it's good enough and functional. It is only my husband and me now so it won't be banged around or leaned on. But I know a woodworking guy who could replace the hinges for the desk part, if I need him. I will style it up on top with a mirror and cool lamp, plant, etc. I thought I needed a hutch on top but I have glassed in kitchen shelves for display purposes.

Please post a picture when you get it all set up to your liking I would love to see it. It is very nice looking.

My PB small secretary desk arrived and I wanted you to see it--"enduring" requested a photo or two ;) I'm impressed with it and didn't expect to be. I was concerned the hinges on fold down desk would be flimsy and not supported. Two wood slide-out brackets hold the desk up. I slide them out when I want to fold down the desk and they slide back in when the desk portion is raised. Very nice feature. More than adequate storage for our business materials and files. The design is clean lined, contemporary/city farmhouse style Top shelf holds a lot of decor items. Here are some photos of it.

Very nice! Enjoy it.