Milan 2016: Dutch designer Frans Willigers has created a hybrid chair and writing desk that he sees as a replacement for traditional office furniture.

The Last Writing Desk features a sloped surface that connects two different levels – a writing surface and a bench, both of which are supported by tapered stainless steel legs.

"The end result is one continuous shape, its aerodynamic form gives it a light appearance, ready for departure," Willigers told Dezeen.

The designer, who previously worked as an architect, looked to older versions of desks – such as the sloped chests of drawers used by monks working on manuscripts and one-piece school furniture – to design his Last Writing Desk.

"The desk as we know it is as good as dead," he said. "Since the introduction of 'the new way of working' and the general use of the laptop, the desk with drawers in its current form has become useless."

"Room for storage has become unnecessary; a laptop can be used on any imaginable surface," he added. "The desk as a type of furniture has practically disappeared."

Designers have been experimenting with form in office furniture to take advantage of the mobility allowed by laptops and to cater to open-plan environments.

Amsterdam architecture firm UNStudio designed an alternative to traditional work desks for Prooff. Its multi-level podium, the StandTable, can be used as a standing desk or meeting point.

Meanwhile, students from the Lund University worked with the co-founder of Danish brand Hay to produce a range of experimental office furniture especially for small-scale workplaces.

Willigers' desk explores similar terrain by disposing of unnecessary storage compartments. The design allows the sitter a range of movement, promoting an active sitting posture.

Workers can rest bags or other items on the sloped section of Willigers' desk, which is upholstered in leather.

"The Last Writing Desk is also perfect for (semi-)public spaces," he added. "For example, in the lobby of an office building or airport or in a library, the design invites people to sit and check their email or work on a project."

A prototype of the furniture was shown during Milan design week at the Masterly: The Dutch in Milano exhibition, which took place at the Palazzo Francesco Turati from 12 to 17 April.