Happy 2019 friends! What better way to start the new year than by getting your work area organized?! When Ryan and I moved to Brooklyn last year, we needed a solution to the problem of having two computers but no designated room for an office. We wanted desks to accommodate both of our work areas, but not overpower the size of our living room (it’s an open floor plan that leads into the kitchen). Essentially we wanted it to be functional and offer some storage for our small apartment, without looking clunky or disorganized since any guest that come over will see it. Not only was a mounted wall desk the best option for being both practical and cute, but it was also the most affordable (under $400) out of all the options researched. Here’s how:
Materials
– Drill + 5/16 drill bit
– Tape measurer + level
– #10 Anchors
– #10 Screws
– 6 Twin tracks (70″ long)
– Spray paint
– Shelves in 12″ x 24″ + 12″ x 48″
– 11.5″ shelf brackets
– 18.5 shelf brackets (5 for the base)
– 93″ x 24″ x 3/4″ sheet of Plywood*
– Stain + brush/rag
*Original piece of plywood was 96” long but we had them cut it to size at the hardware store.
How to Make a Mounted Wall Desk
Start by sanding your piece of plywood to get it as possible. I made the mistake of not sanding enough previously and found that cleaning the surface was difficult, so don’t skip this step! Once sanded, stain the wood. It helps to get a stain with polyurethane so that it’s sealed and you only have to do one coat.
In a well ventilated area, spray paint your brackets. I chose a variety of colors to incorporate a rainbow theme, but you’re welcome to use any palette that fits your space.
While everything is drying, mount your tracks on to the wall. Each track should be 21” from the floor and have 22” between them. Take your time to ensure everything is level; it helps to have a second person with you for this step. This is by far the most tedious part of the desk because of the tracks are off, your shelves will be too. Don’t rush!
All that’s left to do is add your shelves! For the desk, I have mine in the 4th notch up from the bottom, but it’s a preference for what you like and for your chair. Move it around until you get your perfect setting! Place the remainder of the brackets on the tracks, lay your shelf on top and style. While the desk is sturdy enough to hold a computer and more, it’s best not to overload the shelves with a ton of books or with super heavy items to be safe.
I love this project for so many reasons, but the main one is that you can completely customize it to suit your needs. Whether it’s fewer shelves or different colors, you can make it exactly how you want. And because I know you’ll ask, here are the links to the products: Chairs | Gold Trays | Faux Plant | Blankets
And if you’re looking for even more colorful desk accessories, be sure to check out The Crafted Life Shop!
You can find the tutorial for this striped wall art in my book Hello Color!
Special thanks to West Elm for providing product for the shoot. Head to their blog to see more photos for this project!