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How to build a D.I.Y. floating desk

Floating shelving for work area

Overview

Have you always wanted to create a little nook for study or work? We’re sharing a step-by-step guide to create a D.I.Y. floating desk. This is a simple and rewarding project – it's very similar to installing floating shelves.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

  1. 1

    Measure the height

    First, figure out what height you want your wall-mounted desk to be.
    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: You may want to plan for the most ergonomic height for you or the person the desk is intended for.

    Once you’ve decided on the vertical height of your desk, measure this out on the wall and mark it on the back, left and right walls. These are your height markings.
    Measure the height
  2. 2

    Mark the area

    Use a pencil and a spirit level to draw a horizontal line across the back, left and right walls where your desk will sit.
    Mark the area
  3. 3

    Cut the aluminium angle

    Measure out the aluminium angle that will support your floating desk. To do this, take the measurements from the left and right walls and subtract 50mm.

    This will be the length of your aluminium angle and will ensure a clean finish where the angle isn't visible, giving you that floating effect. Cut the aluminium angle to this length.

    Cut the aluminium angle.
  4. 4

    Find and transfer the stud locations

    Using a stud finder, locate the studs on the wall; this will give your desk something sturdy to attach to. Mark these points on the wall and then on the aluminium angle, as well.
    Find and transfer the stud locations
  5. 5

    Pre-drill the angle and walls

    Use a drill to pre-drill holes into the wall and into the studs. Repeat this step with the marked areas on your aluminium angle.
    Pre-drill the angle and walls
  6. 6

    Screw the angle into place

    Attach your aluminium angle to the wall using a drill and some screws.
    Screw the angle into place
  7. 7

    Mark out the desktop template

    Create a template for the desktop using MDF. Take the measurements of each wall and use these to draw a rectangle on the MDF.
    Mark out the template
  8. 8

    Cut to size

    Once you have your desktop template, cut out the MDF. Place it into the nook to double-check it sits flush against the wall without any gaps.

    If there are gaps, or if the MDF piece is too large, make adjustments until it fits snugly into place.

    Cut to size
  9. 9

    Cut the timber desktop

    Take your MDF template and place it on your piece of timber. Using a pencil, trace an outline of the template.

    Cut along the lines as accurately as possible. Double--check that it fits by placing it into your nook area.

    Once cut, you can then stain or paint the timber to your desired finish.

    Cut the timber desktop
  10. 10

    Screw the timber to the angle

    Lastly, place the timber piece on top of the angle and, with someone’s help, go under the desktop and attach it to the aluminium angle.
    Screw the timber to the angle
  11. 11

    Watch the full episode

    For more renovation inspiration, watch Episode 6: Teen bedroom, study and main bathroom renovation in our Make It Happen: The House Project series.
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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.