FLOATING DESK

Trim down a timber benchtop and use angle to create a slimline study

Tools & materials

nSafety equipment (gloves, mask, ear and eye protection) n Tape measure and pencil n Spirit level n Hacksaw n Stud finder n Drill with 4mm and driver bits n Circular saw n Cloths n 25mm x 25mm x 3mm aluminium angle n 10G x 50mm timber screws n 2400mm x 600mm x 36mm timber benchtop• n 180-grit abrasive paper with sanding block n 8G x 25mm timber screws n Timber finish

Keep in mind…

n When using power tools for cutting and drilling timber and metal, wear safety gear (mask, ear and eye protection and gloves), follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and work in a well-ventilated area.

n Ensure the fixings you use are suitable for your wall type.

n Take care when selecting house plants as some can be poisonous to children and pets.

“Indoor plants not only look beautiful and bring a sense of calm to a room, they also help purify the air,” says Inge

1 Decide on the height of the desk, and mark where the underside will sit. Using a spirit level, draw a horizontal line along the walls of the alcove at this mark. Measure side lines, subtract 50mm and cut two pieces of aluminium angle to this length using a hacksaw.

2 Using a stud finder, locate and mark studs along side lines Place a piece of angle along a line with the back end against the wall, leaving a 50mm gap at the front, and transfer the stud marks onto the angle. Repeat at the other side. Tip: Mark which angle is left or right.

3 Predrill both the walls and angle pieces at the stud marks and attach angles to the walls using 50mm screws, to form supports. Measure the desk area and cut benchtop to size using a circular saw. Tip: If the alcove angles aren’t true, make a template first from scrap MDF.

4 Smooth over desk top with 180-grit abrasive paper, wipe off dust with a damp cloth and apply your chosen finish. Drill guide holes through the tops of the angle supports, enlist help to place desk top in position and secure from underneath using 25mm screws.

Keep