Hille Robin Day Interplan Desk, 1954

Interplan secretaire by Robin Day for Hille.

The Unit J Interplan desk is a modern interpretation of the classical drop-front desk from the 18th Century. In the early 19th Century the Shakers produced a tall, plain version known as the ‘cupboard desk’.

The restrained modernist elevation by Robin Day marries with the Interplan family through dimensions and detailing, though the cabinet-making is more complex with the combination of drawers and desk unit. The marriage works well and despite the simple design, the use of contrasting elm and Nigerian cherry adds a dynamic and affluent feel. The recessed handles provide a flat and minimal appearance to the desk, which is echoed through the functionalist layout within. The writing desk was expensive and is a rare model from the Interplan family.

The Interplan range was designed in 1954 and based around an 18inch module. The range of units were designed to offer users flexibility and to work singularly, or as part of a system. It was quite different to anything else in the market at the time.

Robin Day went on to design several other storage systems that anticipated the demand for flexible needs in both domestic and commercial interiors.

The example offered is veneered in ash and Nigerian cherry and is labelled with the early version of the Hille logo.

Dimensions
91w x 45d x 114cmh