Big L Desk

Problem

This project redesigned a space from a makeshift desk into a multifunctional workspace. Day job on the left, hobby on the right. No more competing for real estate or unnecessary barriers to entry.

Design

• Birch plywood for the top and trim.
• Plywood edges left exposed to let the material “be what it is.”
• 4x4 pine legs, cleaned up on the table saw and sanded to 220 grit.
• Finished with 3 coats of satin polyurethane.

Before

The original setup was cramped and felt temporary. The client needed a workspace that supported both focused work and creative hobby time without feeling like one activity had to win.

After

The final desk is a balanced, purposeful layout with a dedicated side for the day job and a separate side for hobby projects. It keeps both zones open, accessible, and visually unified.

Details

The goal was to make the desk itself part of the solution. By letting the plywood edges show and keeping the structure simple, the desk feels honest and durable rather than overbuilt. The result is a clean, functional workspace that supports the way the client actually works.