Building a Simple and Stylish Floating Computer Desk

Hey there, fellow craft enthusiasts! Robert Kline here, ready to guide you through another exciting DIY project. Today, we’re diving into the world of functional and chic furniture with a simple floating computer desk.

This isn’t just any desk. This project is all about maximizing space while adding a touch of modern elegance to your home office or creative corner. We’ll be building a desk that’s perfect for everything from focused work to inspired crafting sessions.

Planning Your Floating Desk

Before we grab our tools, let’s talk about the beauty of this design. Unlike traditional desks that eat up floor space, floating desks provide a sleek and airy feel. Plus, with a few basic materials and a bit of elbow grease, you can customize this desk to fit your space and style perfectly.

Finding the Perfect Fit

Measure your space: Consider the dimensions of your room and how much space you’re willing to dedicate to your floating desk.
Determine the desk depth: Think about what you’ll be using the desk for. If you need ample workspace, opt for a deeper desk. For a minimalist setup, a shallower depth might suffice.

Gathering Your Materials

Here’s what you’ll need to bring your floating desk vision to life:

Materials:

1/4″ birch plywood (or your preferred wood type)
2 x 3s (calculate the quantity based on your desk size)
Wood glue
3″ wood construction screws
2″ wood construction screws

Tools:

Miter saw
Jigsaw/circular saw/table saw (choose your weapon of choice)
Drill
Stud finder
Clamps
Level
Tape measure
Pencil

Constructing the Floating Desk Frame

Now that we have our game plan and materials ready, let’s start building!

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Building the Frame

Cut the back piece: This is the foundation of your desk and will be mounted to the wall. Measure and cut a 2×3 to your desired desk width.
Cut the side and support pieces: Measure and cut additional 2x3s to your desired desk depth. Remember to subtract the width of the back and front 2×3 pieces to get the correct length for these supports.
Assemble the frame: Attach two side pieces to the back piece, ensuring they are flush at both ends. Secure them with wood glue and 2″ wood screws driven in from the backside of the back piece. Add evenly spaced interior supports for added stability, securing them in the same manner.
Attach the front piece: Secure a final 2×3 to the front of the frame, connecting the side pieces. Use wood glue and screws for a sturdy attachment.

Mounting the Frame to the Wall

Locate and mark studs: Use a stud finder to locate the studs in your wall and mark them with a pencil. This is crucial for providing solid support for your desk.
Position and level the frame: With an extra set of hands, hold the frame against the wall at your desired height. Use a level to ensure it’s perfectly horizontal before securing it.
Drill into studs: Drive 3″ wood screws through the back of the frame and into each marked stud. This will ensure your desk is safely and securely mounted to the wall.

Adding the Desk Surfaces

With the frame securely in place, it’s time to create the smooth, finished look of your floating desk.

Measure and cut the plywood: Measure the top surface of the frame and add the thickness of your plywood to the right, left, and front measurements. This will ensure your plywood pieces fit together seamlessly, concealing the frame.
Attach the top piece: Apply wood glue to the top edges of the frame. Carefully position the plywood top, ensuring it’s centered and flush with the wall. Clamp it down for a secure bond, adding weight or using additional clamps for even pressure as needed.
Attach the front and sides: Repeat the process for the front and side pieces, applying wood glue and clamping them securely in place. Allow ample drying time for the glue before moving on.
Attach the bottom piece: If you want the option to adjust the desk height in the future, secure the bottom piece using only screws, omitting the glue. Otherwise, attach it using the same glue and clamp method used for the other pieces.

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Finishing Touches

And there you have it! Your very own floating desk is ready for action.

Apply a finish: Consider applying a clear coat of polyurethane or your preferred finish to protect the wood and enhance its natural beauty.

Remember, you can customize this basic design to suit your needs. Add drawers, shelves, or even integrate cable management solutions to keep your workspace tidy.