Monday, January 9, 2012

81 Basement Progress: Studio Desk Part 3

The studio desk dream is becoming more of a reality, which has me glowing!

I have been so unorganized in my studio without a good workspace and storage.  It's driving me a little insane.  I have piles of papers on my desk, boxes and office supplies stacked on the dresser and I have been working off of a little laptop for weeks.  However, the end of the desk building process is in site and soon I will get to deck it out and make it my own!

As you may recall, I started out with a vision:


And we started the building process by attaching some wainscoting, assembling some bookcases and installing a floating shelf.


Parker and I got a case of the sickies, so the hubs took over the building process for awhile.  I told him to take pictures.  He took one.

We needed an actual "desk" for me to work on, and we brainstormed all sorts of ideas.  I wanted to try and be resourceful so we ended up using an old bi-fold door panel that we had {from when we swapped out our doors from oak to white paneled}.

The thing about the bi-fold door that made it so perfect is that it was a good depth, seemed stable and strong and we already had it on hand!

Bryan started out by "shimming" under the bookcases since they were leaning a bit forward.  Our floors aren't perfectly level and we wanted the bookcases to be nice and flush against the back wall.


Then he sanded down the top of the door, measured twice and cut the desk once.  To finish off the new rough edge, he framed the outer edges with a piece of thin trim {2" x 1/4"}:


What he didn't take a picture of was the underside, but I tried to get a snapshot of that later.  It has a small lip below the desk where the trim is a bit longer than the door.

He used the same trim pieces to screw into the sides of the bookcases and the back wall:


See how the pieces of wood create a bit of a "notch".  This is where the desk top will slide in and sit.  The line that he drew is where I wanted the top of the desk to land.


At this point, we had a desk!



It's VERY sturdy.  The husband made sure to put a lot of weight on it to test it out before we put our pricey computer on top.  It wouldn't be good to see that crash to the floor.  

He also made sure the bookcases were affixed to the wall, which will also protect the desk from moving or separating at all.


The very top of the desk unit is just a piece of white melamine we found at Home Depot.  We cut it to the right length and screwed it down from the top into the bookcases:


Then, Bryan got to work adding some decorative primed white crown molding with an air nailer:



Once the nail holes were all caulked, I was ready to paint.  I had some leftover paint from our "Billy Bookcase Built-Ins", which is all the same IKEA white, so I used that on the crown molding and front of the desk, so it would match the two side bookcases and floating shelf.


This is where you will have to use your imagination and try to see where my crazy brain is going with this...

I only painted the front edges and some of the top of the desk...


My plan is to use the top as a place to bring in some color.  I had a piece of plexi-glass cut down to the same size as the desk top, so I am hoping that I can just stick a piece of decorative paper or fabric or paint swatches or calendars or kid's artwork or whatever I would like at the moment, under the piece of plexi!  That way, the desk top can be decorative and versatile and I can switch it out as I please.  That's the plan anyway!




The final steps will be to drill a hole in the top of the desk for the computer cord to run and another into the side of the bookcase for my scanner.  And finish trimming out the studio.  Then, I get to "move in" and add the finishing touches.  I eventually want to add drawers and doors to the side shelves, but they come at a cost, so I have to determine how many I really want need based on my office/crafting supplies.

So can you see it yet?  What major projects have you been working on lately, that are leaving you grinning ear to ear?


81 comments:

  1. Looks like it's coming along great! love the crown molding try on top. It really helps it look more like a custom piece.

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  2. It's looking really good! I revealed some big news on the blog (we're adopting), so I'm grinning ear to ear as we move on to work on a nursery :-)

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  3. Looking fab. I am still working on my Expedit shelves. Organizing them just so!

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  4. LOVE. I have big plans for our house, thanks to your blog :)

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  5. I love seeing this come together. So often I try to find the right thing in one place instead of piecing things together to get exactly what I want. Can't wait to see the finished product!

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  6. I absolutely looooove this project. So jealous!

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  7. I can totally see it! I'm really excited for you. This will be a great place to work from.

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  8. This is absolutely amazing. I would love to find someone who could build me something so wonderful. I can't wait to see it finished!

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  9. eeeeee this looks awesome Jen!!!!! =) We finished ours at the end of December and I'm slacking on blogging it! I did toss up one photo though if you're curious ;)

    http://www.peasandcrayons.com/2012/01/lately.html

    we designed it while visiting fam (who thankfully live near an ikea!) and almost died when the vision matched the results! now i need to fill it! I have a few red accent pieces I've been playing with and have leaned towards laquered red, aqua, and maybe a pop of mustard-y yellow (if it works, lol!)

    Cant wait to see your pops of oclor!!!!

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  10. It looks great! :) I hope it all turns out the way you want it too!

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  11. That's great! I also need some solution for my little study. I so love the Ikea Hemnes desk, but it's just a few centimetres too long for where I want to put it. :P What do I do?
    But currently I am working on our laundry/mud room which used to be a very ugly place, but just after christmas I started to wallpaper and paint a lot and it lokks a lot better already. I also bought one Ikea Besta shelf - well now I can call it a cabinet, where I put all the cleansers that I had. I LOVE my laundry already, but plan to install another shelf above the washing machine and also some additional lighting. Hope to finish that soon and then go on with my study and the living room and the upstairs bathroom ... I can never stick to one project at a time!!!
    Jule

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  12. That looks absolutely fantastic! Super jealous your hubby is so helpful and handy! I would definitely be doing most of the legwork on a project like this. This definitely provides some great inspiration for when we get our new floor in my office/craft room!

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  13. Jen, it's looking fantastic! I think the plexi glass topper is genius, too. Dfinitely a way to add some fun and rotate it out once you're over it.

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  14. LOVING this project! It looks GREAT!! Can't wait to see, after you "move in"!

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  15. You guys are such a great team! What a very creative/innovative & functional unit is coming together to meet your unique needs.

    :)
    Nice work!!

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  16. I love that you reused an old door you had from a previous project! Great way to keep project cost down, and not add to landfill ;-) I can't wait to see your space all pimped out and beautiful!

    We have just (mostly) finished our backyard renovation...I haven't posted pics yet though. Last weekend hubby was working on installing the landscape lights. We had to buy a few new ones in addition to some we already had. However, for the existing ones the stakes had been broken off over time and I couldn't find replacement ones at Lowe's. I was thinking hubby could find something that could work in the plumbing section or such. Then we had one of those standing lamps (with the pole in metal sections) that was completly broken and was just put in the trash. Hubby took apart the metal pole, and it was a PERFECT FIT to use as stakes - woohoo!

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  17. It's looking so good Jen! And great to see a picture of Bryan, he's usually so mysterious!

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  18. That looks awesome Jen! I know how you feel waiting for your space...I have to wait until we get a house (hopefully this spring!) to update my craft space the way I want. I love the trim and how you used the door for the desktop!

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  19. wow wow wow. you rock sista. that's it. And you're funny. Love the line about telling your hubby to take pictures. "he took one". ha ;). love your blog!!!

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  20. This looks so amazing! So jealous! I'm hoping that my hubby will soon build a desk for me in our office. He's been saying he can't because he doesn't have the proper tools. Excuses, excuses! But now he can't use that line anymore since I got him a circular saw and various tools for our anniversary! I've been planning out what I would like for him to take on, and what tools he needs in order to do it. Safe to say, that's all he's been getting for birthdays, holidays and anniversaries! :-)

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  21. I *love* it! I may have to borrow this design for my office/studio!

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  22. I'm super impressed by this. Wow. Eat your heart out, PotteryBarn.

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  23. oh i love it! can you build one in my house? =]

    i have a question, i understand that you are going to be putting things under the plexiglass, but why not just paint the whole desktop white anyhow in case you ever want a plain white desk? or if you have things under there that don't take up that much room? not criticizing, just wondering!

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  24. You are on a roll! I love watching your progress and can totally see you using the plexi glass desktop as a flat bulletin board/color pop.

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  25. I LOVE this!! As for a project that is making me grin ear to ear - I am packing to move across the country - which in itself I guess is not the funnest park of the task - but I am so looking forward to utilizing your awesome hints/tricks/advise/ideas on our new place!! I can hardly wait! You're the best.

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  26. Awesome! But the original plans look like they had built in lights shining down onto the desk area. Are you still going to have some kind of built in light?

    Can't wait to see this all finished with your beautiful colors!

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  27. I'm wondering the same thing as #25 Eef...
    It looks absolutely amazing! I look foward to seeing your creativeness shine as you put everything in its proper place.
    I'm working on a project that you already did (which is my inspiration btw, a 'cloffice'.
    http://the6wolfeden.blogspot.com/2012/01/this-week-i-am-working-on-building.html

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  28. I absolutely love your blog! Thanks for all the work you out into it. One of my goals is to send you my pics from organizing projects I've done.

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  29. Love! Could you give a project cost breakdown when you have a chance? I'm totally going to copycat this :)

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  30. I am loving this design so much! I am in the designing shelves for my craft area. I love your blog!!

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  31. amazing work... i too need a neat workplace... :(

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  32. Where are you going to get the plexi glass. I've been looking for something to put on a desk too.

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  33. Jen I heart that you brought your drawing to life. That is sooooo awesome!!! I love how it all turned out so far. Can't wait to see the finish touches. :)

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  34. It's going to be amazing, may have to copy you on this one.

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  35. LOVE the new work station! Where, exactly, is it in the room? I can't get a visual. Also, LOVE the new header and signature. Very cute. You have found a way to make even your blog header look more organized. Awesome job. Love your blog!

    forloveofhomeandcountry.blogspot.com

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  36. The desk is looking great! I can't wait to see the final product! Also, I love the new tweaks that you did to the site. It looks great!

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  37. Looks great, Jen! can't wait to see how the whole office comes together!

    Kim (plumberry pie)

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  38. Love this, very beautiful. Where did you get your plexi cut? I have been thinking about doing that for my daughters desk, but I am not sure where to go. Thanks

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  39. I LOVE it! Been stalking your blog for the next post about it. It's beautiful... can't wait to see the completed accessorized area!

    Smiles,
    Wendy
    http://wendyhammersblog.typepad.com/blog/

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  40. looks AMAZING! love the trim, the plexi/display plan, and the fact you are doing this in stages

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  41. Amazing job so far!

    ~Mrs. Delightful
    ourdelightfulhome.blogspot.com

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  42. Niiice! I'm loving where this is going! It looks great!

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  43. I am so jealous. I just love your new space so far. I know it will be a place you will be able to work and create as you have dreamed of. :-), Susan Cooper

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  44. I would looooove to have an Ikea nearby! It would probably bankrupt us, though. :)

    Loving the office progress!!
    Bec

    http://www.turnaroundandsayhello.blogspot.com

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  45. This looks cool.
    If you ever want something more permanent for the top you should try this option http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2011/11/sponsored-post-diy-tortoise-shell-resin.html
    I think this resin thing is so neat.

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  46. I love your new desk!!! Can't wait to see you put on your finishing touches!
    Where did you get your plexi cut? I need some for a current project - Thanks Lindsay

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  47. Jen, this is going to look amazing when you are all done. In fact, it already looks amazing!! You are one talented girl. :)

    Jen
    www.1creativemomma.blogspot.com

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  48. That is going to be the coolest work space!! You are such a clever thang!!

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  49. Hi Jen! This is absolutely gorgeous. Such an inspirational piece. I want one :)

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  50. WOW...I'm definitely impressed. That is a LOT of work. How long did the project take overall? I'm gonna have to show hubby so he can build me one too :)
    Amy
    crazyclutterlady.blogspot.com

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  51. This looks fantastic! Another great Ikea hack! ;)

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  52. This IS a great Ikea hack. It's so great. You are so crafty and imaginative.

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  53. @eef,
    It's funny, my husband asked me the same thing. I have been sick so maybe I had sick/lazy brain at the time. I still might paint the entire top, I just didn't need too. And I think if I leave it ugly, I will be more likely to be creative in covering it up, lol.

    @alburr,
    I will definitely do a cost breakdown in the final project post.

    @unifletch,
    The new desk is on our lower level stair wall, where the table is in this picture: http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s9bq0yJqqn8/TnhQDxXatRI/AAAAAAAAMv4/BWM92vmx9l4/s1600/StudioProgress.jpg

    @alesa and Lindsay,
    We had the plexi cut at our local Ace Hardware Store.

    @Amy,
    It's so hard to say how long the project has taken so far since we are definitely doing it in stages. I would guestimate if we didn't start and stop, maybe 3-4 hours total to install the wainscoting, paint it, assemble the shelves and build in the desk.

    Thanks so much everyone!

    xoxo,
    Jen

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  54. Looking GREAT!!! So much Storage!!!!
    Lots of Love
    Ashli

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  55. That looks fantastic, I really wish I had room for something like this! Unfortunately although our house is bigger than most of its type over here in England, they're just not built to the same sort of specs as US homes and I've gotta be very creative with things such as desk/office space etc. I have a space about 2ft wide for a tiny desk and some storage. Will let you know if I manage to come up with anything!! :-)

    Oh and by the way - LOVE your blog. Your kitchen post inspired me to do the same and now everything works SO much better. Thank you!

    Take care,
    Chantelle

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  56. Hi. What is the height from the floor of the built in desk?

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  57. Jen, this desk is FABULOUS!!! I love it! I have plans for a desk that I want to build (or have the hubby build) but that will have to wait til after our daughter's first birthday at the beginning of February. Seeing your desk makes me want to get started on mine right now. I can't wait to see more on your desk!

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  58. Hi Jen,
    I love your blog.
    Just to let you know that I did subscribe but then unsubscribed because I preferred reading it in blog format rather than email.
    Also, I'm in the middle of moving house so may have missed reading somewhere about why you needed a new desk. Is the closet one now obsolete? Hope not, thought it was incredibly creative.
    Mel

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  59. @Mel,

    Great question. The closet desk was put in when we could no longer utilize our lower level due to the flood, and i needed a workspace for the year we resided on the main level. Now that I am trying to grow my blog and Etsy shop and we are almost done refinishing the basement, I am putting together a larger studio space. The closet office is staying, it will be in our guest room and I am planning on using it to write out cards and write in my children's journals, etc... It's also a great place for our guests to enjoy when they visit.

    Hope that helps!

    xoxo,
    Jen

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  60. It looks great. I was thinking that you might want to paint the whole top of the desk in case you ever decide that you don't want the whole thing covered with pictures or fabric- and do more of a spaced collage type thing. Then you won't have to finish it later...

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    1. It's funny, my husband asked me the same thing. I have been sick so maybe I had sick/lazy brain at the time. I still might paint the entire top, I just didn't need too. And I think if I leave it ugly, I will be more likely to be creative in covering it up, lol.

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  61. My husband and I just got back from Ikea last night with 2 Expedit bookcases! We are going to do something similar for my daughters room. What color 'white' do you use to match the Ikea white furniture? I just discovered Pinterest and your blog 2 weeks ago and I LOVE all your ideas. Thanks!-Lisa

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    1. Hi Lisa!

      I took a bookshelf in to have to custom matched right in the store. You could probably do the same with a piece of the Expedit since it's completely custom.

      xoxo!
      Jen

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  62. Hi Jen, where did you get your plexiglass from?

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    1. Hi Latoya!

      I purchased it from our local Ace Hardware and also had it cut there.

      Thanks so much!

      xoxo,
      Jen

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  63. Hi,
    Is the only thing holding up the desk portion the 'notches' of wood? Are there L-brackets holding up the back? I'm about to do an Ikea-hack and it would be oh, so helpful to know.

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    1. Hi Tina!

      We actually just used the notches around the three sides of the desk top. Each side is attached to the Expedit and the back is attached the wall and screwed into studs and set with the notches.

      Hope that helps!

      xoxo,
      Jen

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  64. Jen,

    Great job! I have two 8-cube Expedits and would love to do this. Since I am challenged with carpentry, can you help and provide me the dimensions of the bifold door? what is the depth and width of the door? I am hoping I can connive, I mean convince my DH to replicate this projcet!

    Thanks so much!
    Jenn in Sunny Florida!

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  65. Hi Jen,
    I am doing my own variation of this desk setup. What is the paint color you used for the crown moulding?

    Thanks!
    Sharise

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    1. Hi Sharise!

      I actually took a shelf from the IKEA Expedit to Home Depot and had them color match the IKEA white, which is the color I used on the molding. It worked perfectly!

      xo!
      Jen

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  66. Hello! I was wondering if you know the exact name of the paint that you used for the molding?
    Thanks!
    Ceci

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  67. Hopefully you see this message! we are in the process of building this and OF COURSE our local store says they cannot "match" the billy white paint off of the shelf we took in as a sample - ("the shelf is too shiny") so I was wondering if you had the formula on your paint can (if you still have the can!! lol) so we can take that info in for them! :) ugh! thanks!
    debi
    debikorfker@gmail.com

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  68. I was thinking of using a table top from IKEA. Since it would not need the thin trim, what do you suggest I use to attach the table top to the bookshelves? Shelf brackets?

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    1. I think a table top from IKEA would look great and be a super simple solution. You could still install a small ledge to support it around as much of the exterior as possible, brackets would be a great idea as well. I think they make some stronger brackets for these types of situations, even for holding heavy counters, so maybe check with your local home improvement expert. :)

      xo,
      Jen

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  69. Jen, forgive me if you've already answered this question! I tried to search but I didnt see anything for it...how did you all affix the expedit cases to the wall?

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    1. Hi Kristin!

      Expedits come with a set of brackets for mounting them to the wall, we just used those! :)

      xo!

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