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How to build a floating study desk?

I have a study nook with dimensions 2050mm wide and 550mm deep. I want to build a floating study desk on this area with some floating shelves above it extending the full width of the nook. The desk will be 45cm or 50cm deep (I don't want to use the full depth and want to leave some space to push the chair). I plan to use some timber cleats on the sides (using offcuts) and 6 floating shelf brackets attached to the back wall. The desk will be made of SpecRite 2400 x 900 x 33mm Brown Acacia Multi-Use Timber Panel, and offcuts to be used for top shelves. Will the cleats and floating brackets (31cm deep) provide enough support to the desk? Do I need a centre support (I want to avoid it for looks but don't want to take any risks)

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EricL

Hello @Jithesh

That sounds like a very well thought out plan and the Carinya 310 x 85mm Black Heavy Duty Floating Shelf Bracket you've chosen has an excellent weight rating. However, it is very important that the brackets be anchored onto the timber stud in the wall. Otherwise, all that weight rating will be useless. However, as an option if the base of the bracket can't be fully secured to the stud, I propose installing a horizontal timber support such as 90x35 and anchoring that to the wall stud and the bracket onto the horizontal timber support. The timber support, brackets and the cleats should be enough to support the desk.

Here are some handy links you might find useful:

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag and @Noyade for their recommendations.

If you have any other questions please let us know.

Eric

Dave-1

Good Morning @Jithesh

I like your plans and was concerned about the span until @EricL mentioned the rear rail support. That really would help out with any springyness and dipping. (Tho I wouldnt styand on it to get to something higher 🙂 )

As a side note as it comes up all the time at work when Ive been installing offices/changing them around and people wanting narrower desks to maximise space there is a ratio rule that works. Desks should be min 600mm wide, preferably wider (just measured my desk and its around 700mm)

This is to keep a viewing distance from a screen to your eyes, to keep the body/keyboard/eyes/head height all within range.

Under the desk is the next reason why. when you sit down at the desk you legs and knees are stretched or bent but are comfortable at 700mm, dropping your width down to 550mm or 500mm you may run into that "uncomforatble feeling. How about before you install the desk, make a mock up of the distance using a cardboard box under a table at 550mm and on top of the table mark out a 550mm depth with painters tape and tehn set it up.

Can you allow a poking out by 100mm from the nook?

Dave

Jithesh

Thank you @EricL and @Dave-1 .

I love the idea of the horizontal timber support and the mock desk setup. I'll add the timber support at the back too and then will test out the desk with a mock setup. Adding the back support reduces the cantilevered portion too, so that's another plus.

I don't want to allow the desk to pop out as this is in the living room. This desk will be for my son for his study, and he won't be using it for longer hours.

What screws would you recommend to secure the cleats and the brackets to stud?

Also, I have an idea to add the easycraft vj panels on the wall first and then put the desk and shelves on top of it. Haven't settled on that decision yet though 🙂

Thanks

Dave-1

Good Morning @Jithesh

Id suggest a timber screw at least this long Zenith 10 - 8 x 100mm Galvanised Countersunk Rib Head Timber Screws - 50 Pack I know its external but "shrug" I was after a decent connect between the rail, plus plaster and then into the stud.

Just rem that distance for the knees under the desk, every 10mm you will feel it, Tho VJ paneling would look good so its a hard call.

Dave

MitchellMc

Hi @Jithesh,

Those 100mm screws @Dave-1 has mentioned would be suitable.

Mitchell

Nailbag

Hi @Jithesh

When you say it’s a nook I’m assuming its a U-shaped space?

If that’s the case, for that span, shallow depth and thickness of bench top you should be able to get away with supporting battens to all 3 sides without a need for stayed brackets.

And if considering VJ panelling then note stud dead centres on the floor first then install the panels then the desk for easy of assembly and neatness of finish.

Nailbag

Jithesh

Hi @Nailbag , that's interesting. I was worried about the weight of the desk panel + computer & other items causing the desk to sag without enough support throughout the width. So you reckon that's not the case? And yes, it is on a u-shaped space as shown in the picture.

2023-03-03~2.jpg

EricL

Hi @Jithesh

Should the desk sag or bow you always have the option of adding more support underneath.

Eric

Jithesh

Yes I could add even some cabinets underneath it at a later stage. Eliminating the need of brackets makes the job easier and cheaper 😀

Nailbag

I can't promise some sagging, even though depth is quite shallow @Jithesh

So, in avoiding any stayed brackets or leg, would be to use 20-25mm square steel tube along the front edge resting in rebates in the side battens. The tube could be covered by a timber trim running along the front end of the desk.

Nailbag

Jithesh

Hi @Nailbag . How would you secure the steel rods against the desk board? Use an angke bracket or just let the board rest on it? Also would you recommend angle brackets to secure the desk against the side and back battens or screw through the batten to the board?

Nailbag

Hi @Jithesh

Here is a side profile which would be mirrored either side, then a batten runs along the back wall.

Flat head screws through pre-drilled pilot holes through the steel tubing into the bench top. The front cover strip can be nailed, punched and filled into the edge of the benchtop and will secure the tube in place.

Battens to have pilot holes for long thick gauge wood screws into studs. You will pick studs up in the corners in on a slight angle. You may a need a wall fastener at the front end of the side battens unless you can bring them right to the front.

Hope that makes sense.

Nailbag

Screenshot 2025-12-06 at 11.32.24 am.png

Jithesh

Thanks all.

I have got everything delivered from bunnings and will start on the project soon. Wish me luck!

EricL

Good luck @Jithesh!

Eric

Jithesh

Thanks @EricL , @Nailbag , @MitchellMc and @Dave-1 for all the guidance. I've finished my project and I'm more than satisfied with the final outcome. I have published my project here - https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/t5/Living-and-Bedroom/DIY-Study-Nook-amp-Feature-Wall/m-p/334406#M18598

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