Download Drawings and the original 1876 documentation Wooton Desk Catalog 1876
Various Finishes and Styles
Every Wooton Desk we build can be finished to match your vision, whether you prefer a rich, traditional look or something with more character and modern flair. Our artisans work with a wide range of stains and surface treatments, from deep mahogany and golden teak to lighter oak tones that highlight the intricate grain of the wood. For clients who want their desk to carry the warmth of history, we also offer distressed and antiqued finishes that replicate the patina of a century-old original. Hand-rubbed oils, waxed surfaces, and satin or high-gloss lacquers can be applied to achieve anything from a subtle sheen to a commanding centerpiece. Whether you seek a museum-quality replica faithful to the 19th-century originals, or a custom-styled heirloom with modern influences, the finish and stressing techniques ensure your Wooton Desk feels truly one-of-a-kind.
Other Versions of the Wooton Desk
When William S. Wooton launched his desk company in Indianapolis in 1870, he offered his revolutionary “cabinet secretary” in four distinct grades: Ordinary, Standard, Extra, and Superior. Each level reflected both the complexity of its interior compartments and the richness of its exterior design. The Ordinary was practical and relatively simple, designed for everyday clerical use, while the Standard introduced more elaborate storage with finer materials. The Extra grade showcased ornate carving, premium hardwoods, and intricate brass fittings, elevating the desk into a true showpiece. At the top, the Superior was the pinnacle of craftsmanship, often featuring lavish decoration, elaborate interiors with hundreds of cubbyholes and drawers, and finishes meant to impress the elite professionals, clergy, and industrialists of the Gilded Age. Collectively, these variations earned Wooton the title of “King of Desks”, offering something for both practicality and prestige.
Glenn Custom Furniture
At Glenn Furniture, every Wooton Desk we build is fully customizable to meet your exact preferences. Our craftsmen can adjust the size and proportions to fit your office or study, modify the basic design layout to include more or fewer compartments, and adapt details such as carvings, moldings, or hidden storage features. You also have complete freedom to choose the color tone, wood species, and finish style — from deep, traditional stains to lighter contemporary looks, and from smooth satin surfaces to richly antiqued or distressed effects that suggest a century of use. This flexibility ensures your desk is not only a faithful tribute to the original Wooton tradition but also a one-of-a-kind heirloom tailored to your personal taste and environment.
Designs
To make the design process seamless, Glenn Furniture’s design team can translate your ideas into precise CAD drawings and even full 3D renderings before production begins. This allows you to see your custom Wooton Desk from every angle, experiment with different proportions, layouts, finishes, and decorative details, and make adjustments with confidence. By visualizing the desk digitally first, clients can ensure the final piece will meet both functional needs and aesthetic goals. Whether you’re recreating a faithful replica of a historic model or developing a modernized adaptation, our designers bridge the gap between imagination and craftsmanship.