Build a Cheap Standing Desk with IKEA - Guide & Review
The Rise of Standing Desks and a DIY Solution
A growing trend involves the use of standing desks – work surfaces designed for use while standing. As a freelance writer working remotely for the past five years, I’ve personally encountered issues like back pain and repetitive strain injury, common ailments for those who spend extended periods seated.
The potential benefits of a standing desk led me to consider one as a possible remedy.
The Cost Barrier and Search for Alternatives
However, commercially available standing desks often come with a significant price tag. I lacked both the financial resources and the inclination to invest in an expensive piece of furniture without a guaranteed positive outcome.
This prompted a search for more affordable options online, inspired by solutions like the one previously adopted by Bakari.
Building a Budget-Friendly Standing Desk
Ultimately, I opted for a cost-effective standing desk solution from Ikea. The following details a step-by-step guide to constructing a similar setup, alongside my personal experiences using it.
This approach allows for the exploration of the benefits of a standing workspace without substantial financial commitment.
My Experience
The goal was to find a way to alleviate discomfort and improve well-being while maintaining productivity. A DIY standing desk offered a practical and accessible path toward achieving this.
The following sections will detail the construction process and provide insights into the practical application of this budget-friendly solution.
A Source of Inspiration
My search for viable standing desk options led me to an insightful article featured on Colin Nederkoorn's Blog while browsing online. After evaluating numerous pre-fabricated, adjustable standing desks available, I determined their cost was prohibitive.
Nederkoorn ingeniously constructed his own solution, leveraging his current desk and supplementary components sourced from Ikea. This approach offered a significant cost advantage.
Cost-Effective Construction
The total expense for Nederkoorn’s DIY standing desk amounted to only US$22. This affordability makes experimenting with a standing desk setup accessible to a wider audience.
Inspired by Nederkoorn’s design, I resolved to create a similar standing desk. While my final cost exceeded $22 slightly, it remained considerably less expensive than the $500 to $1,000 typically required for a commercially available, high-quality standing desk.
The potential benefits of a standing desk, coupled with the low investment, made the project particularly appealing.
Initiating the Project
Prior to commencing construction, a thorough assessment of existing resources and required materials is crucial. Consequently, a visit to Ikea was undertaken to evaluate available options and inform purchasing decisions.
During this exploration, the realization dawned that replacing the current desk entirely would be more beneficial than attempting to adapt it. A tabletop and four legs were therefore added to the necessary items. The sole deviation from Nederkoorn’s original design involved selecting a smaller shelf for the keyboard and mouse; his measured 28cm in depth, while an 18cm depth was deemed sufficient for this project.
NB: Should you choose to replicate this standing desk build, determining the ideal shelf size is paramount. Purchasing a smaller unit, as done here, can potentially reduce overall expenses. Furthermore, if a suitable desk is already available, the table legs and tabletop can be omitted from the shopping list.
A subsequent trip to Ikea resulted in the acquisition of the following components (prices indicated in parentheses reflect U.S. costs):
VIKA ADILS Table Legs (Set of 4) = £10 ($14)
VIKA AMON Table Top (1) = £9 ($11)
LACK Side Table (1) = £8 ($10)
EKBY VALTER Brackets (Pair) = £4 ($6)
EKBY JARPEN Shelf (1) = £8 ($10)
Total Expenditure = £39 ($51)
For under £40 (approximately $51), a functional standing desk was obtained, readily convertible to a conventional desk by simply separating its components. The assembly process then became the next step.
NB: The small, gray brackets visible in the image were previously owned and initially intended for securing the LACK table to the desk. However, they ultimately proved unnecessary. Individuals with young children or active pets might consider additional securing measures for enhanced stability and safety. Failure to do so is at the user’s discretion.
Construction Process
Ikea furniture is typically delivered in flat pack form, but assembly is generally straightforward. This proved fortunate, considering my limited practical skills.
The initial step involves constructing the primary desk. This is accomplished by simply attaching the four VIKA ADILS legs to the underside of the VIKA AMON table top using screws. The resulting desk is robust and minimalist, fulfilling its intended purpose.
Next, the LACK table is assembled, a process even simpler than the first. The provided double-headed screws are inserted into the base of each of the four legs, and then these legs are secured to the square tabletop.
The image below displays both the assembled sitting desk and the side table, ready for use. It's important to note that the LACK table will be modified with brackets, but the sitting desk remains unaltered and can be utilized independently if needed.
The following picture illustrates the side table positioned atop the sitting desk, allowing you to visualize the final outcome. Once completed, the desk reaches a height of 118cm, potentially requiring a laptop to be elevated for comfortable use by most individuals. Shorter users may consider shortening the LACK table legs before bracket installation.
Note: The LACK table measures 55cm by 55cm; therefore, your existing desk must have at least this surface area to accommodate the standing desk configuration.
Determining the ideal height for your keyboard and mouse is now necessary. A common guideline suggests positioning them at approximately elbow height to minimize wrist strain. Seeking assistance from another person to hold the shelf at various heights until a comfortable position is found is advisable.
The next step involves marking the bracket locations on the LACK table legs, drilling pilot holes, and then securing the brackets with screws.
Important: Utilize screws with flat heads to ensure the shelf sits flush against the brackets.
The FIXA screw set was purchased at Ikea, but it's likely you already possess the four screws needed to attach the brackets to the side table. A drill, or at least a tool to create starter holes in the LACK legs, will also be required.
Attaching the shelf to the brackets with screws is completely optional. I opted not to do so, preserving the flexibility to adjust the setup as needed. Instead, adhesive putty was used under the shelf where it meets the brackets to level and stabilize it. This allows for easy repositioning of the brackets and removal of the table if a return to sitting is desired.
Following the first day of use, I found it necessary to increase the shelf height to reduce the angle of my wrists while typing. Therefore, I recommend carefully determining the optimal height before attaching the brackets to the table.
Initial Impressions
Following a couple of hours dedicated to assembly – a process I approach with considerable care – my affordable standing desk acquired from Ikea was finally prepared for use. It was then relocated to its designated space upstairs.
My laptop was positioned, followed by the addition of essential peripherals: the keyboard, mousepad, task lighting, and speakers, all of which are indispensable to my workflow. A cup of coffee was added subsequently, proving equally vital to the setup.
NB: Please note that the footstool visible beneath the standing desk in the accompanying images is not an integral component of the described configuration.
Ten days have now passed since the completion of my inexpensive Ikea standing desk, and it has been utilized daily. Usage has varied, ranging from brief periods to several hours each day.
A noticeable increase in productivity is experienced when working in a standing position, resulting in greater task completion within a shorter timeframe. This improvement is likely attributable to the inherently less relaxed nature of standing, prompting increased focus and reduced time spent on non-work related activities.
Furthermore, maintaining a more upright posture is observed while using the desk, which is anticipated to positively impact my overall posture.
However, this benefit is somewhat offset by discomfort in my knees that arises after extended periods of standing. This previously unknown sensitivity is triggered by prolonged static positioning. It's important to note that this experience may not be universal, and my knees may simply require an adjustment period.
Reflections on Standing Desk Use
My experience has shown me that a consistently standing work setup isn't the ideal solution for me. I function best with versatility, requiring the freedom to transition between standing, sitting, and reclining positions based on my comfort and physical needs.
I am glad I invested the effort in constructing this standing desk to evaluate its suitability, as a permanent, custom-built solution would likely have resulted in dissatisfaction and a significant financial loss.
The Ikea standing desk presents a compelling concept. It’s affordable, visually appealing, and offers the flexibility to revert to a traditional seated desk if standing proves unsuitable.
Benefits of the Ikea Model
I intend to retain this desk, though future modifications to better align with my individual requirements are anticipated. The entire undertaking has been beneficial, prompting a reassessment of my work habits and resolving my inquiries regarding standing desks.
It’s evident that standing desks won’t suit everyone. Anyone contemplating a full-time switch should first conduct a trial period to assess its impact.
Potential Applications in Office Environments
Furthermore, this specific Ikea standing desk holds promise as a viable option for offices employing a hot-desking system. It could serve as an instantly available workstation for all employees, accessible as needed.
This provides a convenient and adaptable solution, promoting employee well-being and offering a choice in work posture.
