Hi everyone, Robert Kline here! Today, I’m excited to share a project that perfectly blends practicality with style: a DIY floating corner desk with shelves. This design is not only space-saving but also adds a touch of modern elegance to any room. Whether you’re crafting a cozy study or a sleek workspace, this guide will provide you with all the steps and inspiration you need.
Why a Floating Corner Desk?
Floating desks are a fantastic option for those looking to maximize floor space and create a more open feel. Tucked neatly into a corner, they offer a dedicated work area without overwhelming the room. Adding shelves elevates the functionality, providing storage for books, plants, and decorative items that personalize your space.
Gathering Your Materials & Tools
Before we dive into the construction, let’s gather everything we need. For this project, I recommend using affordable yet sturdy materials like pine, which takes stain beautifully.
Materials:
- For the Desk Top:
- 2 pieces of 24″ deep x 1″ thick x 4′ long wood boards (I found mine at Lowes for a steal!)
- 2 pieces of 1″ x 4″ pine trim (8 ft long)
- For the Support:
- 3-4 table legs (29″ tall worked well for me)
- Ledger board (length will depend on your desk size)
- Wood glue
- Wood screws
- L-shaped brackets
- Tools:
- Miter saw
- Impact driver and drill bits
- Level
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Safety glasses
Creating the Faux Butcher Block Top
The beauty of this design lies in its ability to mimic the look of expensive butcher block without breaking the bank. Here’s how we achieve that:
- Bullnose Edging: Using wood glue and your nail gun, attach the 1″ x 4″ pine trim to the edges of the 24″ wide boards. This creates a smooth, rounded edge that mimics the look of a thick butcher block countertop.
- Sand and Smooth: Once the glue dries, sand down the edges until they’re perfectly smooth and seamless.
- Staining: Now for the fun part! Choose a stain that complements your existing decor. I opted for a weathered oak finish, which added warmth and character.
Installing Your Floating Desk
With the beautiful tabletop complete, let’s move on to the installation process:
- Ledger Board Placement: Determine the height you want your desk to be and mark the wall accordingly. Using a stud finder, locate and mark the studs. Securely attach the ledger board to the wall, ensuring it’s level.
- Positioning the Desk Top: Enlist a helper to lift and hold the tabletop onto the ledger board. Use your level to make sure it’s perfectly straight.
- Adding Support Legs: With the tabletop in position, place a table leg under each corner (except the corner against the wall, if hidden). Secure the legs to the tabletop using L-shaped brackets, hiding them within the bullnose edging.
- Center Support (Optional): If you have a larger desk or want extra stability, add a center support leg.
- Final Touches: Give everything a final sanding and apply a protective finish to your desk if desired.
Personalizing Your Floating Desk
Now comes the fun part – making this desk truly yours! Consider these ideas:
- Shelving Above: Install shelves above your desk for additional storage and display space.
- Under-Desk Storage: Add a small cabinet or floating drawers underneath for discreet storage.
- Cord Management: Keep your workspace tidy by using cable clips or a cable management box.
Conclusion
Creating your own floating corner desk with shelves is an achievable and rewarding project. Not only will you save money compared to buying a pre-made desk, but you’ll have a unique piece perfectly tailored to your needs and style.
I’d love to hear your thoughts and see your creations! Feel free to share your experiences and photos in the comments below. For more unique handmade gifts and DIY project inspiration, be sure to explore the rest of Robert Kline Art!