DROP-FRONT DESK

Set up a handy workspace anywhere with this wall-mounted desk. The desktop drops down to create a first-class workstation when you need it, and an elegant wall accent when you don't.

- BRYAN NELSON

Working from home shouldn't mean plopping down at the kitchen table. Bring your executive lifestyle into a work-from-home form factor with this elegant desk.

The divided interior features compact drawers for odds and ends along with easy-access open areas for a laptop and larger items. Done with work? Store everything away and flip up the door for a clean, contemporary look.

And the dovetail keys not only add a decorative look, but also strengthen the corners. Bonus: The jig you build to rout the slots for the keys will always be handy for future projects.

START WITH A STURDY SHELL

Beginning with the outside case provides the exact measurements needed for the interior parts. Then, once you've cut the shelves and dividers to size, you'll assemble the desk from the inside out.

1 Cut the top/bottom (A) and sides (B) to width and overlength (31" for the top/bottom and 21" for the sides) [Materials List, Drawing 1]. Then cut a rabbet along the back edge of each piece [Drawings 1, 1a].

2 Bevel-cut the ends of the top/bottom and sides to final length. Dry-fit the case using a pair of band clamps and check the fit of the miters, adjusting as necessary for tight, seamless joints.

3 Measure inside the case side-to-side to confirm the actual length of the shelves (C), then cut the shelves, drawer dividers (D), and vertical divider (E) to size [Drawing 1].

4 Lay out and cut the biscuit slots [Drawings 1, 1a], then finish-sand all the parts.

5 Assemble the shelves and dividers with glue and biscuits [Drawing 1,  Photo A].