How to turn an unused bathtub into a table with storage?

[Tshelf]

I've got a bathtub that's not in use so I want to turn it into a storage/workspace. I have a couple questions about how to approach it. I want to make it easily removable in case I need to use the tub later. I'm planning on making a 1700x500mm frame out of 70x35mm pine and attaching a plywood top. My main concern is whether or not the ledges can support the worktop, I'm not going to put too much weight on it but I need a second opinion.

I wanted to have the option of using it as a sitting or standing workspace. I copied a common foldaway workbench design and included some images of my plans. I want to make it out of 70x35 pine to keep costs low. Any feedback or critique is appreciated. It uses cup-head bolts as the pivots, will 4x ZENITH M10 x 125mm Zinc Plated Hex Head Bolts and Nuts work? 

Legs fold underneathSpace between the tub and tabletop will have storage containers
I wanted to make the legs simple with cuts I can make with a handsaw

[EricL]

Hello @Tshelf 

That design looks excellent and keeping it simple makes assembly so much easier. With the legs folded the low table looks great. Since your table is removable and is only made of 70x35 the tiled edge of the tub should be able to carry the weight of your table. However, please make sure that it is only used as a table and not a platform to be stood on as these might damage the tiles.

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

If you need further assistance, please let us know. 

Eric

[Nailbag]

Hi @Tshelf 

For something that small and as long as its not going to hold too much weight, I would consider just laying straight across the tub either yellow tongue flooring or form-ply. And I would use large dabs of general purpose silicone which will both hold it in place and also allow you to restore the tub to full use down the track.

Nailbag

[Dave-1]

Good Morning @Tshelf 

Now thats the way to use a space without ripping out what may be needed later!

I like the foldable legs but have concerns taht the overall weight on them feet/edge of tiles might cause cracking or failure. I Would stay with the same design but make the feet actually rest square on the sides of the tiles. Maybe even some high density foam (like the play mats/ute tray mats) just to lesson any banging that may happen while using the table.

Would love to see photos of this project as it unfolds I think it would be an interesting project to have in here.

Dave

[Tshelf]

Thanks for all the suggestions @EricL, @Dave-1  and @Nailbag,

I originally had a piece of form-ply resting on top but began sagging under its own weight.

I modified the legs so they would be further from the corners when opened and when folded I'll add an extra piece of wood on each side so all the weight isn't just on the corners. I had some old play mats I can cut up to use as padding.

[Nailbag]

Very impressive @Tshelf with a great thought-out design.

@EricL those 3D renderings are right up your standards to I would imagine.

Nailbag

[Tshelf]

Hi Everyone, finally had some time to finish this project. Things kept popping up so I could only get around to it recently. Simplified the leg design and its working fine. I used some scrap formply, foam tape and timber to make a cover to protect the tiles. It also raises the table up to fit storage containers underneath. The legs are stiff and it takes some effort to pull them out, I I didn't go a good job of rounded the corners with sandpaper but it works well enough and I'm overall happy with the end result. Thanks again for all the input, it helped me out with the details!

[JacobZ]

Hi @Tshelf,

Thank you for sharing the finished product.

It looks like a great solution to me.

Jacob