This project was built and designed by Pete from DIY Pete. It’s a clean and practical solution for creating a dedicated workspace without taking up valuable floor space.
The design features a minimalist, wall-mounted desk with a built-in drawer. It works well in small rooms or home offices where space and functionality need to go hand in hand.
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Picking the Right Spot
To start, Pete recommends choosing a spot where the desk will feel natural and accessible. A corner nook or an unused stretch of wall can work perfectly for a compact workspace.
Using a stud finder, he marks the wall to locate the framing studs. This ensures the desk will be solidly anchored and capable of supporting weight.
Cutting and Prepping the Frame
For the frame, Pete uses 2×4 boards that are trimmed to remove the rounded edges. Squaring off the boards creates a cleaner look for a more modern final appearance.
The boards are cut to length with a miter saw, allowing for precise measurements. Pre-sanding the cut edges helps reduce splinters and prepares the frame for assembly.
Building the Frame
To assemble the frame, pocket holes are drilled into the ends of the 2x4s. These joints are secured with screws and wood glue for strength.
Clamps are used to hold everything tight and square during assembly. Once dry, the frame becomes the support structure that will be mounted to the wall.
Making the Drawer
Pete measures the drawer opening carefully to ensure a proper fit. The drawer is built from half-inch pine for the sides and quarter-inch plywood for the bottom.
The drawer pieces are glued and nailed together using finish nails. Once dry, the drawer slides smoothly into its opening in the frame.
Building the Desk Surface
A solid pine board is used for the desktop surface. It’s cut to size, then sanded smooth with a fine-grit paper to prep it for finishing.
Pete applies an oil-based polyurethane to seal and protect the top. The finish also enhances the natural wood grain and gives the desk a polished appearance.
Mounting the Desk
With the frame complete, the next step is installing it at the correct height. Pete marks the standard desk height on the wall—about 29 inches—and ensures the frame is level before attaching it.
Heavy-duty bolts are used to secure the frame to the wall studs. If the desk is mounted in a corner, it’s attached to both walls for extra strength.
Final Assembly
Once the frame is secure, the desktop is placed on top. It’s attached using wood glue and finish nails, completing the structure.
Pete double-checks for level and stability before sliding the drawer into place. A final sanding pass smooths any edges, and the desk is ready to use.
Optional Additions
For larger desk designs, metal brackets can be added for extra support. This ensures the desk can handle more weight or heavier items like monitors or tools.
The design can also be customized with different finishes, drawer pulls, or materials. It’s a flexible project that fits well in both modern and traditional rooms.
Want to See the Full Build?
Please support Pete by checking out all his plans here: https://www.diypete.com/diy-project-plans/.