Ernest Igl for Wilhelm Werndl Directors Writing Desk in Fiberglass

Ernest Igl for Wilhelm Werndl, Directors writing desk, fiberglass, carved wood, Germany, 1970s

This design truly resembles the ethos of the seventies – a bright and bold era – featuring the commonly used material of that time named fiberglass. Ernest Igl strived for the creation of a desk that focused on functionality combined with an aesthetically pleasing design for daily use. This is discernible in the playful composition of curved lines and round shapes executed in the whole construction. For this outspoken layout the designer used minimal colors, such as a soft grey color seen on the writing desk and extended drawers, and white on the overall frame. The lockable writing surface can be opened and reveals a large storage compartment. A sophisticated storage facility is present here. Taking every stylistic realization into account, this writing desk feels retro, without clashing with contemporary interiors.

Ernest Hofmann (1920-2001) – in 1954, he gave himself the artist name ‘Igl’ – was as a multi talent. He, a designer, sculptor, illustrator, and inventor, designed everything from a harvester machine to office appliances, a microscope, and rubber boots. His oeuvre includes an impressive number of products used for all kinds of situations in life. Hofmann, born in Prague in 1920, studied graphic arts in his hometown, in Karlsbad and in Munich, where he and his wife settled. Hofmann firstly worked as an illustrator, graphic artist, and cartoonist for well-known schoolbook publishers. In 1962, they moved to Rosenheim, which marked the beginning of Hofmann’s more design orientated career.

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