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Working from home often calls for a dedicated workspace. A well-designed office enhances productivity and creativity. Instead of simply placing a laptop on the kitchen table, crafting a tailored office setup can significantly improve the working experience.
As many integrate a home office into existing living spaces, challenges frequently arise. Balancing personal comfort with the technical requirements of a workspace can be difficult. However, with some ingenuity, it is possible to create a home office that harmonizes functionality with style.
Introducing the HAVSTA home office hack
A compelling approach to achieving this is through a DIY project inspired by CYRIL from @myhomelifeandstyle. This innovative hack incorporates hidden storage, a discreet desktop, and attractive display shelves, resulting in a workspace that is both practical and visually appealing. Notably, this transformation can be completed over a single weekend.
Materials you’ll need
To get started, gather the following supplies:
- 2 IKEA HAVSTA cabinets
- 3 IKEA HAVSTA shelves
- Beadboard
- Trim
- Crown molding
- Wood desktop
- Piano hinge
- Caulk
- Primer and paint
- Sanding block/sandpaper
- Wood glue
- Clamps
- Nailer
- Magnetic clasps
- Basic tools– screwgun, drill, saw, tape measure
Step-by-step guide to building your HAVSTA desk
1. Preparing the HAVSTA components
Begin by assembling the two HAVSTA cabinets and two of the shelves according to the instructions from IKEA. Skip the lower movable shelves, as these will be replaced with your desktop and monitors. Position the cabinets where you intend to set up your desk, then place the shelf units on top without securing them yet. Measure the space between the top of the shelf units and the ceiling to ensure a snug fit.
2. Adding beadboard for backing
Next, lay out all shelf units on the floor and attach the beadboard backing. Measure and cut the beadboard to fit, then secure it using wood glue and a nail gun. This addition will provide a polished look to your workspace.
3. Securing your setup
Once everything is positioned, it’s time to secure the cabinets and shelves together, as well as to the wall. Use hardware suitable for your specific wall type to ensure stability.
4. Installing the desktop
Now, prime and paint your wooden desktop. Cut the trim to the appropriate size to enhance the front of the desktop when it’s folded up. Attach the trim using wood glue and clamps, and reinforce it with a pin nailer.
Next, install the piano hinge to connect the desktop to the bottom of the shelf units. Remember to add magnetic catches to keep the desktop securely closed when not in use. You may also consider adding chains for additional support when the desk is in its down position.
5. Final touches
To complete your desk, add desired trim pieces to the front of the shelves and use crown molding around the top for a built-in appearance. Caulk any seams and nail holes before finishing with primer and paint to achieve a cohesive and polished look. Choose colors that reflect your style and complement your space.
Understanding the costs
As many integrate a home office into existing living spaces, challenges frequently arise. Balancing personal comfort with the technical requirements of a workspace can be difficult. However, with some ingenuity, it is possible to create a home office that harmonizes functionality with style.0
As many integrate a home office into existing living spaces, challenges frequently arise. Balancing personal comfort with the technical requirements of a workspace can be difficult. However, with some ingenuity, it is possible to create a home office that harmonizes functionality with style.1
The joy of DIY
As many integrate a home office into existing living spaces, challenges frequently arise. Balancing personal comfort with the technical requirements of a workspace can be difficult. However, with some ingenuity, it is possible to create a home office that harmonizes functionality with style.2
As many integrate a home office into existing living spaces, challenges frequently arise. Balancing personal comfort with the technical requirements of a workspace can be difficult. However, with some ingenuity, it is possible to create a home office that harmonizes functionality with style.3

