How to Build a Wall-Mounted Countertop Desk

A wall-mounted countertop desk is a convenient and stable organization solution.

A wall-mounted countertop desk is a reasonable storage solution for areas that either lack room for a free-standing desk, or for where a permanently mounted desk is the best solution. Although several manufacturers have kits for wall-mounted shelving that could serve as a desk substitute, it makes more sense to build a solid, wall-mounted countertop desk yourself, using sturdier materials properly sunk into the wall's support studs. This type of home improvement project is straightforward and requires a minimal investment of time, funds and materials.

Things You'll Need

• Particle board
• Tape measure
• Marking pencil
• Wood saw
• Formica sheet
• Blade
• Formica glue
• Poplar trim
• Finishing nails
• Steel brackets
• Wood screws

Instructions

1. Cut a sheet of particle board to the desired dimensions for the desk.

2. Trim the Formica sheet to match the dimensions of the desktop, using a heavy-duty blade.

3. Glue the Formica to the particle board. Carefully follow the application directions for the Formica glue. Some glues require clamping or curing time before use.

4. Attach the poplar trim to the sides of the desk surface that will not be flush to a wall. The trim provides solid visual appeal and protects the edge of the desk. The top of the trim should be flush with the surface of the desk. Use small finishing nails to secure the trim to the particle board.

5. Mark the location on the wall where the countertop desk will be mounted. Many desks are mounted between 32 and 42 inches, depending on intended use. Identify where the wall studs are located.

6. Mount the steel brackets to the wall. The brackets should be affixed with heavy wood screws sunk directly into a wall stud, to maximize the desk's stability. Use one bracket for every stud along the desired length of the desk.

7. Place the desk surface on top of the mounting brackets. Use wood screws to connect the desk surface to the brackets.

Tips & Warnings

• Stain or paint the poplar trim to tie in your room's colors before affixing it to the side of the desk.

• Ensure that the desk surface is level and solidly connected to the wall before use.

• Desks supported by metal brackets are less stable than desks that have four solid legs. If the desk will be used to store heavy objects, or if you expect that a heavy load will occasionally be put on the desk, consider adding at least one leg on the outside edge of the desk to help bear the load.

References

• HGTV: Wall-Mounted Desk