Warren Platner for Knoll Writing Desk in Oak and Black Leather

Warren Platner for Knoll, writing desk, oak, chrome-plated steel, black leather, United States, 1970s.

This writing table with two drawers and an extendable panel was designed by Warren Platner for Knoll International in the 1970s. The three materials chromed metal, black leather and blonde oak wood combine beautifully in color and texture. The chromed metal T-shaped base brings a well open balanced feel to its overall design.

Warren Platner (1919-2006) was originally trained as an architect and studied at Cornell University. Although Platner made notable architectural contributions throughout his career, it was his furniture collection for Knoll that earned Platner worldwide renown. Originally introduced by Knoll in 1966, the Platner collection is an icon of modern furniture. In his early years Platner worked for the architect Eero Saarinen. Platner is famous for his refined and theatrical designs, and he did not shy away for color.

Knoll International was founded in New York by the 26-year-old German Hans Knoll (1914-1955) in 1938. Hans' father, Walter Knoll was a true modernist and furniture manufacturer who had a reputation for quality. When Hans Knoll died at a young age his wife Florence Knoll took over and under her influence the company flourished and created its best designs. She designed and led the company where she cooperated with talented designers such as Eero Saarinen, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Richard Schultz and Harry Bertoia.