How to Build a Space-Saving Wall-Mounted Desk

Watch How It's Made

Build the Frame

Lay out both pieces of 36” x 8” x 3/4" wood parallel to one another on a sturdy surface.                                          

Line up the two 22.5” x 8” x 3/4" pieces of wood at the ends to form a box.                             

Use the framing square to align the corners, then measure and mark at 2” and 6” on the ends of the two longer boards.

Pre-drill holes at the marks, and then connect all four sides with wood screws.

After building the outside frame, add the final 22.5” x 8” x 3/4" piece of wood in the center to create interior shelves. Then, attach the 16” x 8” x 3/4" piece of wood perpendicular to the center board with wood screws.

Attach Decorative Panels

Lay the decorative panels out on your 36” x 24” x 3/4" piece of wood (which will be the desk’s door) to create your preferred design before gluing them down.

Paint the decorative panels in your chosen color and set them aside to dry.

Paint the door and desk frame and allow to dry thoroughly.

Glue Decorative Panels to Door

Use wood glue to adhere the decorative panels to the door. Allow the glue to dry thoroughly before moving the door.

Attach Hardware to Frame and Desk Door

Flip the door over so the decorative panels are facing down, then line up the frame on top of it. 

Connect the bottom side of the door to the inside of the frame using the two cabinet hinges. Attach the hinges with eight wood screws each, pre-drilling holes first.

Next, connect the door to the frame using drop down hinges.

Line up the hinge with the bottom right side of the door and frame. Mark with a pencil where you’ll need to pre-drill holes for your wood screws. 

Pre-drill at each mark and then use two wood screws to attach. Repeat all for the left side.

Place magnet hardware on the right top corner of the inside of the door. Repeat this step on the left side.

Attach the magnet latch to the inside of the desk frame to align with the magnet hardware on the door.

Close the door to the desk and mount it to the wall with sufficient hardware for the weight of the project.

This wall-mounted desk looks like a stylish piece of art when closed, and serves as an ideal small-space work station when open.