Room by Room – the Nelson Swag Leg Desk

This week, Room by Room with FormFire Glassworks takes inspiration from a simple, stylish addition to your room, the Nelson Swag Leg Desk.

Designed by George Nelson in 1958, this light addition to the modern home was designed around the elegant shape of the desk legs. Machine-made and prefinished, they had to have a graceful line and gentle taper. This simple form allows a sturdy piece of furniture that seems to hover delicately. With a walnut stretcher and side panels that echo the leg curve and white melamine horizontal surfaces, this is a minimalist desk perfect for someone who needs a small workspace for a laptop and some correspondence. To offset the calm look of the rest of the piece, Nelson added cubbies divided asymmetrically with bright modern colors. Updated with the addition of a cable grommet in a back corner, this desk is produced by Herman Miller and also available through DWR.

I love the playful twist of color added to this gorgeous workspace, and made some accessory choices today based on those sweet cubby panels. A pleated zipper pouch allows you to consolidate extra pencils and supplies. Books can be stored in a felt box that adds a punch of color, while walnut stands show off a prized possession. A small aqua vase holds a single bud, while a retro print on the wall pulls together the vignette.

Next week I will choose a new iconic piece and give you my picks for accessorizing your modern home.