How to Make a Corner Desk With IKEA

Are you tired of your boring old desk? Looking for something that will better fit your space and style? Why not try making a corner desk with Ikea furniture?

Creating a functional and stylish wall shelves design using IKEA products is an excellent way to maximize space and customize your workspace. Whether you’re looking to set up a productive home office, a gaming station, or a crafting area, IKEA offers a wide range of affordable and versatile pieces that can be combined to fit your needs. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can design a corner desk setup that is tailored to your preferences and complements your space.

This guide on how to make a corner desk with IKEA will walk you through the steps and provide helpful tips to make the process simple and efficient.

What Are the Benefits of a Corner Desk?

Before we dive into the process, it’s essential to understand why a corner desk may be an excellent option for your workspace. Here are some key benefits:

• Maximizes Space: A corner desk utilizes the often underutilized corners in a room, making it a space-saving solution.
• Increases Productivity: A dedicated workspace can help you stay focused and organized, increasing productivity.
• Offers Versatility: With different configurations and add-ons, a corner desk can be customized to fit your needs.
• Adds Aesthetic Appeal: A well-designed corner desk setup can enhance the overall look and feel of your home office or gaming station.

What Will You Need?

To create a functional and aesthetically pleasing corner desk setup, you will need the following items:

• A Corner Desk: This is the main component of your setup. Consider its size, design, and materials when choosing one.
• A Comfortable Chair: Since you will be spending long hours at your desk, investing in an ergonomic chair is essential for good posture and back support.
• Lighting: Proper lighting reduces eye strain and creates a welcoming work environment. You can use a desk lamp or choose a spot near natural light sources.
• Organizational Tools: Depending on your specific needs, you may need to invest in storage solutions such as shelves, drawers, or filing cabinets to keep your workspace clutter-free.

8 Easy Steps on How to Make a Corner Desk With IKEA

Step 1: Plan the Design 

Start by deciding the dimensions and layout of your corner desk. Measure the space where the desk will be placed to ensure it fits perfectly without taking up too much room. Consider the functionality you need—will the desk be used for work, gaming, crafting, or general home use?

Sketch a basic design, noting key features such as storage areas, cable management solutions, or space for multiple monitors if needed. Don’t forget to choose a style that complements your room’s aesthetics. Once you have a clear idea, list the materials and Ikea components required, such as table legs, tabletops, or shelving units, to bring your design to life.

Step 2: Assemble Your Materials

Once you have gathered all the necessary components from Ikea, it’s time to prepare for assembly. Clear a spacious, well-lit area to work in and ensure you have all the tools required, such as a screwdriver, drill, or level.

Lay out your materials and double-check that everything matches your design plan. Organize smaller pieces like screws and brackets to avoid misplacing them. Taking the time to set up an organized workspace will make the assembly process smoother and more efficient.

Step 3: Assemble the Frame 

Start by constructing the main frame of your furniture piece. Refer carefully to the Ikea instruction manual and identify the parts that make up the base structure. Connect each piece using the provided screws and brackets, ensuring they are tightly secured but not over-tightened. Use a level to confirm the frame is straight and stable before moving on to the next step. This foundational step is crucial for the stability and durability of the finished product.

Step 4: Attach the Panels 

Once the frame is securely assembled, attach the panels that form the furniture piece’s sides, back, or top. Align each panel with the corresponding pre-drilled holes in the frame, and secure them using the screws or fasteners provided in the kit.

Pay close attention to the orientation of each panel to avoid errors. For larger panels, having a second person assist you may be helpful to ensure proper alignment. Double-check that all panels are firmly attached before advancing to the next step.

Step 5: Install Shelves or Internal Components

Once the main frame and panels are securely assembled, begin installing any shelves, drawers, or internal components included in the furniture kit. Refer to the instruction manual to identify these pieces’ correct positions and orientations. Slide adjustable shelves into the designated slots, or attach fixed shelves using the provided brackets and screws. Carefully align the rails or tracks for drawers and test their movement to ensure smooth operation. Make sure all internal components are securely fastened and aligned before proceeding.

Step 6: Final Assembly and Inspection

With the internal components installed, attach any doors, handles, or decorative features included in the furniture kit. Secure doors using the provided hinges, ensuring they are correctly aligned and can open and close smoothly. Attach handles or knobs with screws, and tighten them appropriately. Once all components are in place, carefully inspect the furniture for stability, alignment, and any loose screws or fittings. Make necessary adjustments to ensure the furniture is safe and functional before use.

Step 7: Check and Test the Furniture

Before using your newly assembled furniture, checking and testing it for stability, alignment, and functionality is crucial. This will ensure that the furniture is safe to use and will last for a long time.

To begin, carefully inspect all parts of the furniture, including joints, screws, and fittings. Look for any signs of damage or defects that may have occurred during shipping or assembly. Contact the manufacturer for replacements or repairs before assembly if you find any issues.

Next, check the stability of the furniture by gently pushing on different parts of it. The furniture should feel sturdy and not wobble or sway. If you notice any instability, try tightening screws or adjusting joints before continuing with assembly.

Step 8: Secure All Components 

Once you have ensured the stability of the furniture, double-check that all components are securely fastened. Use the appropriate tools, such as a screwdriver or wrench, to tighten any loose fittings. Be cautious not to overtighten, as this could damage the material or strip the screws. Take your time to verify each connection point to ensure the furniture remains sturdy during use.

A thorough inspection at this stage can help prevent future issues and extend the lifespan of your furniture.By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your furniture is assembled correctly and ready for use.

5 Things You Should Avoid

1. Skipping Measurements: Avoid neglecting to measure your space accurately before starting the project. Incorrect measurements can lead to a desk that doesn’t fit properly in your corner or fails to meet your needs.
2. Ignoring the Instructions: Ikea provides detailed assembly instructions for a reason. Skipping or misinterpreting steps can result in an unstable or improperly constructed desk.
3. Using the Wrong Tools: Ensure you use the recommended tools for the assembly process. Using inappropriate tools can damage the materials or make the assembly unnecessarily difficult.
4. Rushing Through the Process: Take your time to focus on each step. Rushing can lead to mistakes, like misaligned pieces or missing hardware, which will affect the overall stability and appearance of the desk.
5. Overlooking the Surface Finish: Be careful not to damage the surface finish of the desk during assembly. Placing components on rough or dirty surfaces can scratch or chip the desk, impacting its aesthetics.

5 Different Types of Desks

1. Writing Desk: A writing desk is a compact, simple desk designed specifically for writing. It usually has a flat surface with minimal storage space, making it ideal for small spaces or as an addition to a larger workspace.
2. Computer Desk: As the name suggests, a computer desk is designed to accommodate computers and other related equipment. They often come with features such as keyboard trays, cable management systems, and built-in shelves or drawers for organization.
3. Standing Desk: Standing desks have gained popularity recently due to their health benefits. These desks can be adjusted to different heights, allowing you to alternate between sitting and standing while working. This can help improve posture and reduce the health risks associated with prolonged sitting.
4. Drafting Table: Drafting tables are specialized desks architects, artists, and designers use for drawing or drafting projects. They typically have adjustable angles and a flat surface to accommodate large sheets of paper or other materials.
5. L-Shaped Desk: L-shaped desks offer a larger workspace by combining two desk surfaces at a right angle. This design is ideal for those who need multiple monitors or work on multiple projects simultaneously.

Conclusion

How to make a corner desk with IKEA is a practical and customizable solution for creating an efficient workspace.

Start by selecting compatible IKEA components like tabletops, desk legs, or storage units like ALEX drawers to best suit your space and needs. Combine two tabletops at a right angle to form the L-shape, ensuring they are securely supported with appropriate brackets or desk legs. Consider adding storage elements underneath for added functionality.

By using affordable, modular IKEA pieces, you can design a versatile and budget-friendly corner desk tailored to your specific requirements.