Work Spaces for Small Places: IKEA Expedit to DIY Standing Desk

Changing one’s workspace from a regular desk to a standing desk can be a big challenge, but I made the switch over a year ago and haven’t looked back. Attractive and affordable standing desks can be hard to find, but this DIY version from IKEA fits the bill nicely.

Using just two 2×2 Expedit bookshelves, a Linnmon tabletop, and some 6″ Capita legs from IKEA, IKEA Hackers user Sharon created a cute and functional standing desk that’s perfect for a small space, and came in at under $200.

The perfect height for a standing desk depends a lot on the person using it, of course. Sharon says she’s 5’6″, and this setup measures in at 39″ tall, which she says has been a very good height for her. (I am also 5’6″, and my 41″ standing desk is a smidge too high if I work in bare feet. It’s perfectly comfortable if I am in my running shoes, which is how I like to work, but then I’m really more like 5’7″ at least.)

The best thing about this hack is all the storage space it creates under the desk. Usually that area goes to waste, and in a small apartment losing that much space can be a disaster. The bookshelves under the desk make a clever storage area for books, and a stool for when the novelty of standing all day starts to wear off.

Check out the full instructions over at IKEA Hackers.