DIY Study Nook & Feature Wall

[Jithesh]

I transformed an under-utilised nook wall into a dual-purpose study nook and display space. The project features dark-painted MDF V-groove panelling for a sophisticated backdrop. I used 26mm SpecRite Acacia timber panels for the heavy-duty floating desk and matching shelves, providing a premium feel and ample workspace. Smart LED lighting and integrated power completed this functional, modern home study/office upgrade.

Materials

• easycraft 2700 x 1200 x 9mm easyVJ100 Primed General Purpose Wall Lining MR MDF E0 
• Practa 2200 x 600 x 26mm Acacia Timber Benchtop 
• Metal Mate 25 x 25 x 1.6mm 3m Galvanised Steel Square Tube 
• 70 x 45mm Treated Pine 
• Zenith 10 - 8 x 100mm Galvanised Countersunk Rib Head Timber Screws - 50 Pack 
• Taubmans endure interior wall paint 
• Dulux Primer
• Beeswax Polish 
• Heavy Duty Shelf Brackets
• Cable management grommets
• Tp-link smart light

Tools

Steps

Step 1

Planning and Prep

Measure the nook accurately (mine was 2050mm wide and 550mm deep). I used a stud finder to locate the timber wall studs and marked their positions on the wall—this is critical for supporting the heavy Acacia panels later. Once I have the measurements, I had a rough plan of what to go in there and how the finished project will look like.

Step 2

Installing the Feature Wall

I cut the MDF V-groove panels to size, allowing a small 3mm expansion gap at the sides. Before installing, I applied the primer to the panel boards. I then fixed them to the wall using a combination of construction adhesive and flush-head nails.

Step 3

Painting

Once the panelling was up, I filled the nail holes and caulked the edges for a seamless look. I applied two coats of Dulux interior paint. Painting the wall before the desk goes in makes the process much cleaner!

Step 4

Supporting & installing the Desktop and Shelves

To achieve the floating look for the Acacia panel desktop, I used:

• Horizontal timber support at the back anchored directly into every wall stud.

• Side Cleats: Small timber ledges fixed to the side walls for the desk ends to rest on.

• 25mm Square steel tube along the front edge resting in rebates in the side battens

I then cut the acacia panels and installed the desktop using construction adhesive and then attached them onto the battens using the screws. The off-cut acacia is then used as the front cover strip which is screwed to the steel tubes and the side battens along with liquid nails to hold them.

For the shelf, I used a heavy duty shelf support brackets installed on to the studs. I then cut the acacia panels to size and fixed them on top of the support brackets.

Then I drilled the holes needed for the Cable Cover grommets for wire management, and an additional desk power grommet.

I then added beeswax to the desktop and shelves for protection and to bring out that beautiful acacia wood grain. Finally, I installed smart LED strips under & around the shelves. Then it was time for the display pieces to go in.

[Dave-1]

Good Afternoon @Jithesh

Niiiiice! Love the colour you painted the panels! Tho the thing tha brought a smile to my face and a happy nodding was looking at the tape on the skirting board and going ???? and then the lighbulb kicked in

Definently some nice work and that really stands out!

Oh, how long did it take from start (the panelling) to the finish (beeswax plus lighting)?

Dave

[MitchellMc]

That looks sensational @Jithesh! I trust you are very happy with your results.

Many thanks for sharing and well done.

Mitchell

[Jithesh]

Took me just over a week from start to finish considering the gap between for painting to dry and some of the electrical items to arrive.

Oh and yeah, that tape on the skirting was a great help to locate the studs