Standing Desk Conversion

Having experienced the benefits of a standing desk at my last job, I wanted to create a similar environment at home. With the restriction that it must be built upon my existing cherry desk, I wanted a solution that was not too out of place near my traditional living room.

I decided on a two-shelf approach, the first for the monitors and the second for the keyboard and mouse. Then I needed a way to support the shelves. On a previous project, I used concrete form tubes as a structural building material and was pleased with how easy they were to work with. In addition, my desk has cutouts for cords, and the hollow tubes would allow easy and hidden cord management.

Materials

• concrete form tube, 8" diameter (approximately)
• concrete form tube, 10" diameter (approximately)
• pre-finished shelf, 11.8" D x 35.8" W, black
• pre-finished shelf, 11.8" D x 47.8" W, black
• primer
• paint, Colonial Red, gloss
• wood glue
• GelPro anti-fatigue mat (optional)
• adjustable height stool (optional)

Tools

• razor knife
• router (woodworking kind, not internet kind )

Steps

1. Create prototype

   I used books to prop up the shelves so I could determine the right height for me while using the computer.

   
   full size
2. Cut tubes to size

   I cut the larger diameter tube to the height of the monitor shelf, and the smaller diameter tube to the height of the keyboard shelf. I cut notches in the larger tubes for cord management.

   
   full size
3. Prime and paint tubes

   The surface of the tubes is a loose paper printed with information which spirals around the tube. I just painted right over it, hoping the added texture would add a little interest.

   
   full size
4. Route grooves into shelves

   I traced the outline of the tubes onto the shelves, and routed the grooves free-handed. I could have done a more precise job, but the groove is on the bottom of the shelf and not usually visible.

   
   full size
5. Glue it together

   I filled the grooves with a liberal amount of wood glue, then set the tubes into the grooves and let them dry. Again, I wasn't much concerned with appearance since the grooves are underneath the shelves.

   
   full size
6. Install

   I routed the monitor cables through the notches and down through the tubes. My wireless keyboard and mouse were easier to install.

   
   full size

I am very pleased with the result. The mobility of the keyboard shelf is a benefit I hadn't really considered, but it sure is handy.