How to Build a Desk TV Combo

If you would like to have a TV in your work space, but you have limited space, combining a desk with a television stand can provide a space-saving solution. Although you can purchase combination desks from a variety of online retailers and furniture stores, you can also build your own desk to meet your space requirements. You can build a combination desk using common carpentry tools. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Measure the available office space with a measuring tape to determine the size of the combination desk. The desk should provide enough room for paperwork, a laptop or desktop computer and office supplies, and should also offer sufficient room for a flat-screen TV. The top of the desk should sit at least 40 inches from the floor to maximize comfort while you work or watch television.

2

Mark the width and depth measurements on a section of 1/2-inch-thick pine or hardwood. Snap a chalk line between the measurements to form an outline of the desk top. Cut the lumber along the outline with a table saw.

3

Cut a section of 1/2-inch-thick hardwood or pine to the width and height of the desk, and two sections to the height and 1/2 inch shorter than the depth. These sections form the back and sides of the desk.

4

Stand the side sections so that the edges are flush with the edges of the back section -- the sections should form a "U" shape. Drill pilot holes through the back into the edges of the sides at 4-inch intervals. Insert and tighten 2-inch wood screws through the pilot holes with an electric screwdriver.

5

Place the desk top on the sides and back of the table. Drill pilot holes and insert 2-inch wood screws along the perimeter of the top on the back and sides at 4-inch intervals.

6

Cut an 8-inch section of hardwood or pine to the desk width. Cut two additional sections to a measurement of 8 inches by 6 inches. These sections form the supports for the television, and also provide space beneath the television for storing office supplies.

7

Stand the 8-by-6 inch sections on their 8-inch edges on top of the desk, 1 inch from the sides and flush with the back of the desk top. Drill pilot holes through the underside of the desk top and through the ends of these sections at 4-inch intervals. Insert and tighten 2-inch wood screws through the pilot holes.

8

Place the remaining 8-inch-wide section on top of the television side supports so that the edges of this section align with the desk edges. Drill pilot holes through this section into the ends of the side supports. Insert and tighten 2-inch wood screws through the pilot holes.

9

Cover the screw heads with wood putty, using a 1-inch putty knife. Allow the wood putty to dry overnight, then sand the surfaces and edges of the desk with a palm sander. Stain or paint the desk as desired to match your office decor.