at least ice boxes can be renovated inside with felt lining and glass shelves to function as a bar for storing liquor and barware ... roll-top desks are just a waste of space ...
I always wanted one, but they are always out out my league.
And frequently, they *smell* from having dampness inside of them.
Just B4 I moved, I found one, that wasn’t overly large, or expensive; it is in A1 condition, except for a dent in the side molding. It still has its label and inside *furniture*. I thought it would fit in my new digs.....but it is way too deep for the space. Oh well. My heirs will have to worry about it; it weighs a ton! and presently is housing my extensive herb and cooking spice collection.
I still love that I have it. It could survive a nuclear blast, I swear!
It would make an excellent *bar* storage, as you say, but I don’t drink. :)