This project was built and designed by John from John Builds It. It’s a smart solution for turning unused corner space into a functional media console with a clean, custom look.
The design includes angled cabinetry, shaker-style doors, and a hardwood top for a polished finish. If you’re looking to optimize space and enjoy a weekend woodworking challenge, this project is a great one to follow.
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Starting the Console
John begins by breaking down a full sheet of plywood to form the cabinet carcass. While he typically uses a circular saw and guide, this time he used a new Makita track saw, which offered quick and accurate cuts.
Using the track saw allowed him to make cleaner bevels right from the start. The tool quickly became a favorite for making precise angles, especially for corner cabinetry.
Creating the Cabinet Shape
To create the right fit for a corner, John beveled the front edges at 45 degrees. For the inner rear edges, he set the saw to 22.5 degrees so the pieces would come together at a clean 135-degree angle.
This angle is key for making the cabinet nest perfectly into the corner. Taking the time to get these angles right ensured the rest of the build stayed square and symmetrical.
Cutting and Installing Shelves
With the panels prepped, John set up a dado stack on the table saw to cut grooves for each shelf. Using careful measurements, he spaced and aligned the cuts to hold the shelves tightly.
Once the dados were complete, he flipped the parts face-down and used painter’s tape to pull the miter joints tight during glue-up. After the glue dried, brad nails and screws were added for strength.
Assembling the Cabinet Body
John started assembling from the back, attaching the angled panels together and cutting the bottom shelf to fit. Once the bottom was in place, he added vertical uprights and secured them from both the bottom and back.
Each upright included dados to hold additional shelves. This locked everything together while maintaining a clean internal layout for storage or electronics.
Building the Face Frame
The face frame was made from 3/4 inch poplar, a durable wood that’s easy to work with. John cut each piece to size, leaving the bottom rail wider so future baseboards would sit flush.
He beveled the outer stiles at 45 degrees so they’d align with the angled cabinet sides. Assembly was quick using pocket holes and glue, minimizing clamping time.
Making the Cabinet Doors
For the doors, John chose a shaker-style design that would match other cabinetry in the home. He used white poplar for the stiles and rails and MDF for the center panels.
To join the parts, he used a tongue and groove router bit set, creating smooth, tight joints. Once assembled, he drilled for hinges and pulls, prepping everything for final installation.
Finishing the Details
Before final finishing, John added a center support under the bottom shelf to prevent any long-term sagging. He then sanded the entire unit thoroughly and focused on finishing the top.
The top was built from hard ash, kept just over an inch thick. He applied a pre-stain conditioner followed by General Finishes gray gel stain, which he recommends for its smooth application and consistent tone.
Installing the Top and Doors
Once staining was complete, the cabinet doors were installed with a half-inch overlay to match the overall design. Z-clips were used to fasten the top securely, allowing for wood movement while keeping it locked in place.
With the last components attached, the console was ready for final placement. Its design blends clean lines with functionality, turning an awkward corner into a focal point of the room.
Why This Project Works
Corner spaces are often tricky to use effectively, especially when it comes to media setups. This console solves that challenge by offering closed storage, a solid top, and an angled layout that fits naturally into the room.
John’s attention to joinery and finishing techniques makes this piece feel like a permanent fixture. It’s a perfect example of how thoughtful woodworking can improve everyday spaces.