How to build a floating shelf on the existing bedhead?

Question

Hi guys,

How to build a floating shelf on the existing double bedhead?

The room is a bit narrow and only fits a double bed so I am thinking of building a floating shelf on top of the existing double bedhead so I can install LED strip lights or recessed reading lights instead of having a bedside table/lamp.

AI built shelves on both sides but the room is too narrow! I only want to build a floating shelf on top of the bedhead. I have plenty of melamine, MDF and plasterboard sheets leftover from other projects.

Can you please send me the instructions and the materials to buy?

Thank you so much :)

JacobZ · Answer

Hi @Beginner20,

That sounds like a reasonable compromise.

Please let us know if you require any assistance as your project progresses.

Jacob

Beginner20 · Answer

Thank you @MitchellMc. I've added a mockup floating shelf on the bedhead last night and it doesnt work well with the space I have in this small bedroom.

I've looked at other options and decided to install 2 stacked floating shelves on the left wall

MitchellMc · Answer

Hi @Beginner20,

You could certainly build something similar. A simple way to do it would be to use

https://www.bunnings.com.au/140-x-19mm-1-8m-dar-pine-premium-1-8m_p8401466

for the main structure, with a sheet of

https://www.bunnings.com.au/customwood-3mm-1200-x-600mm-white-mdf-backing_p0610151

to enclose the rear of the niche and create a clean cavity for the lighting.

The exact dimensions will depend on the height and width of your existing bedhead, but I've put together a simple rendering below that shows one way the unit could be assembled. It provides the basic framework, which you could then clad with additional trim pieces or mouldings to achieve a more polished, built-in appearance.

When planning the shelf, I'd also recommend leaving enough space behind the backing panel to conceal the wiring for your LED strip or reading lights. If you're installing any 240V lighting, have the cabling run by a licensed electrician before the unit is fixed in place.

Please let me know if you have any questions or if you'd like help working out the dimensions to suit your existing bedhead.

Mitchell