Secretary Desks Are the Bar Cart Alternative You Never Knew You Needed

For many months, I was lusting over a petite secretary desk from World Market, but given that I didn’t have anywhere specific to put it, I was able to refrain—that is, until the piece went on major sale. I knew there had to be some way I could work the beautiful desk into my small apartment, and then it occurred to me: the piece could most definitely double as a bar table. 

I picked up the desk at my local World Market, spent a few minutes assembling it, and then immediately began styling. Compared to secretary desks featuring tall, cabinet-like hutches and drawers, this piece doesn’t have a ton of bells and whistles.

There are two small drawers on top but not a ton of storage space, so unfortunately, I’m not able to store my barware anywhere inside. Instead, I made use of the top of the “hutch” portion of the desk and used that to display a few favorite accent pieces—but if you’re more into functionality, note that this surface would also make a great place to set bottles. 

I then corralled a few liquor bottles on one of my favorite marble trays, added some cocktail-related books, and set out two of my favorite glasses to style a little entertaining-ready setup. Simple, but sweet and stylish. 

I’m by no means the only person who’s thought of using a secretary's desk as a home bar. Below, you’ll find a few inspiration images from designers, which I can’t stop swooning over. 

Designer Zoe Feldman made a major statement by adding a tall secretary desk to a Washington, D.C. rowhouse, where it serves as a deluxe bar cabinet. The piece can be neatly closed up when not in use but provides significant storage for all kinds of entertaining essentials. 

Southern State of Mind blogger Heather Metzler transformed an antique-looking piece into a well-organized bar station, in which she displays all kinds of cocktail glasses and a variety of liquors. 

This setup by designer Cindy Witmer proves that even small pieces—like mine—can look beautiful with a small bench tucked underneath and plenty of art and accents nearby. A large tray is simultaneously functional and stylish.