DIY Desk
Have an old door sitting unused in your garage or attic? Instead of letting it collect dust, repurpose it into a stylish, functional desk. This simple project turns a reclaimed door into a charming workspace that adds character and personality to any room.
I discovered this lovely home office and studio on Meredith Perdue’s blog and was inspired by her creative use of materials. She kindly allowed me to share photos of her studio and the DIY desk she built. The finished piece feels airy and inviting while remaining practical for everyday use.
This project is straightforward and uses just a few elements:
- An old door (any style you like)
- A sheet of glass cut to fit the door surface
- Two sawhorses or another set of sturdy supports
Placing the door across two sawhorses creates a spacious, open desk. The glass top protects the door’s surface while adding a clean, polished look. If you need storage or prefer a more enclosed base, you can swap the sawhorses for file cabinets, dressers, or shelving units to create drawers and hide cables.
This approach works well in home offices, studios, and multipurpose rooms. The reclaimed door brings texture and architectural interest, and the raised glass surface makes the desk easy to clean and maintain. It’s an ideal solution for renters or anyone who wants a distinctive workspace without committing to built-in furniture.
Other creative ways to use old doors
Doors are versatile reclaimed materials that work in many home projects beyond a desk. Here are some ideas that preserve the character of the door while giving it new life:
- Mount a door horizontally behind a bed to create a unique headboard.
- Lean a door against a wall as a decorative backdrop or room divider.
- Attach hooks and hardware to convert a door into a coat rack or entryway organizer.
- Use door panels as shelving backers or to create a customized shelving unit.
- Repurpose a door into a café-style table by shortening its legs and adding a base.
These projects highlight how reclaimed doors can introduce vintage charm and architectural detail into modern interiors. They’re also eco-friendly options that reduce waste and add a personal, handcrafted touch to your space.
Tips for working with an old door
- Inspect the door for structural issues, loose hardware, or rot before beginning.
- Sand and refinish the surface if you want a smoother look; seal with a clear coat to protect the wood.
- If you use glass on top, have it professionally cut to size and consider rounded or polished edges for safety.
- Secure the door to the supports so it won’t slide—adhesive pads or small brackets work well and are removable if you want to disassemble later.
Repurposing a door into a desk is an accessible and rewarding DIY project. It combines practicality, style, and sustainability, and it’s flexible enough to adapt to different room sizes and design preferences. Whether you prefer the open look of sawhorses or the added storage of cabinets beneath, this idea makes a memorable and functional addition to any home.
Thanks to Meredith Perdue for sharing her inspiring studio and workspace.