Transform a walk-in cupboard into a stylish study nook

More of us are working from home than ever before – but many locations are less than ideal! Learn how to create a cosy workstation without taking up too much space, using an old walk-in cupboard.

And it’s not all that hard when you get the right gear from your local Mighty Helpful Mitre 10.

You will need:

Step 1: Clear and measure the space for your study nook

Find a suitable space for your study nook and clear it out. Measure the width and depth using a measuring tape and note the sizes down.

Step 2: Cut and prepare the deskptop

Your desktop will need to span the entire width and depth of the built-in cupboard. Take your measurements to the team at your local Mighty Helpful Mitre 10 and ask them to cut 16mm Marine Ply to size for you. Also cut a 100mm strip the same width as the desk. Alternatively, you can cut your 16mm marine ply to size yourself using a circular saw.

Using Wood Glue, secure the 100mm strip to the underside of the desktop to double the width at the front, ensuring the edges are flush. Secure it using aqadhere glue and 15mm timber screws, every 23mm then sand your desktop using a fine-grit sandpaper.

Step 3: Paint a feature wall

Once your space is clear, mask off your skirting and corners with ScotchBlue Original Multi-Surface Painter’s Tape and begin painting your feature wall. We’ve used Dulux Salmon Slice, allowing at least 2 hours between coats.

Step 4: Attach floating shelves

When the paint is dry, install your Painted Floating Shelves according to package instructions. Use a level to make sure they’re on straight.

Step 5: Install the desktop

We’ll be using an aluminium angle to hold up the desktop on three sides for maximum support and durability. With a hacksaw, cut your aluminium angle into one long and two short pieces according to the size of your space. Using a 3mm drill bit and drill, make holes in each piece every 250mm.

Mark out your wall at 700mm high and attach your aluminium angle pieces to the wall using a drill and 30mm screws. If the wall is brick, use wall plugs. For plasterboard, use screw in plaster plugs.

Place your desktop onto the aluminium angle with the 100mm strip facing down and away from the wall. Secure it with a drill and 15mm screws and style as desired.

Step 6: Finish it off

Once complete you can oil it with Organoil Wax and Polish to bring out the natural grain of the timber.

For more Mighty Helpful service and advice, speak to the team at your local Mighty Helpful Mitre 10.