Lift-up top - completely removable or slide-out center panel?
Front doors with lift-off hinges?

http://www.creativeartprograms.com/Frame-Profiles-working.gif

http://www.woodmastermoldingknives.com/images/knives/test_13.jpg

http://www.mountaindalewoodworking.com/images/FramePanel_Profiles.jpg

Writing Desk:

Standing Desk:

Full Height Desk:

Other Inspiration:

Late 13th-early 14th Century French