ᐅ How can I build an IKEA Besta as a small desk?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to build a small desk using IKEA Besta units. The idea is to use the typical Besta cabinets as a base and mount a tabletop on top to create a compact but sturdy workspace. It is important to me that the desk is not too high and remains as space-saving as possible since I have limited room available.

My questions for the community:

- Which Besta dimensions (height, width, depth) are best suited for a small desk?
- What are practical (and stable) methods to connect the Besta frame to the tabletop?
- Are there any tips for choosing and securing the tabletop that will hold up well over time?

I look forward to your experience and advice, especially if you have done something similar before.

For a small desk, Besta cabinets with a depth of 38 cm (15 inches) are ideal. A 100 cm (39 inches) wide tabletop fits well on top. You need to adjust the height to your sitting height, usually around 73–75 cm (29–30 inches).

For assembly, I recommend using screws through brackets that you attach on the inside. This keeps everything stable.

lubla schrieb:

For a small desk, Besta cabinets with a depth of 38 cm (15 inches) are ideal. This also fits well with a tabletop that is 100 cm (39 inches) wide. You need to adjust the height to your sitting height, usually about 73-75 cm (29-30 inches).

I wonder if a depth of 38 cm (15 inches) is really enough for a desk — usually, at least 60 cm (24 inches) depth is recommended for comfortable working and enough space for a keyboard and monitor. A small desk, yes, but not at the expense of usability. Does anyone have practical experience whether 38 cm (15 inches) really works well or if it feels too cramped?

Also, it would be interesting to know how to ensure long-term stability when the tabletop is only attached at specific points.

theo63 schrieb:

I wonder if a desk depth of 38cm (15 inches) is really enough

I agree, 38cm (15 inches) sounds quite tight for a desk – it might be a bit cramped, but if you mainly work with a laptop and have a minimalist setup, it could work. I once made a temporary desk from Besta with 40cm (16 inches) deep boards, and it was surprisingly stable.

lubla schrieb:

For fastening, I recommend screws through brackets

A quick tip: adding wood glue can significantly strengthen the joint. Also, a switchable desk lamp or a cable tray under the tabletop can help keep things organized – making clever use of the small space. 😉

38cm (15 inches) depth is absolutely standard for Besta units. If you need more space, you have to choose systems like Ivar or others.

Regarding stability: Standard Besta carcasses support sufficient load due to their construction; a continuous tabletop on two carcasses is stable enough. Screws and brackets are the best solution.

Here is a brief guide on how to use Besta as a small desk:

- Choose dimensions: Besta cabinets with a depth of 38 cm (15 inches) and a height of 64 cm (25 inches) are standard and usually suitable for desks.
- Adjust height: The ideal working height is around 72-75 cm (28-30 inches), while Besta is normally 64 cm (25 inches) high. Use table legs (e.g., from IKEA) or raise the Besta units with a worktop that is about 8-10 cm (3-4 inches) thick.
- Select tabletop: A sturdy wood or MDF panel at least 2 cm (1 inch) thick is recommended. For a narrow space, I suggest a width of max. 80-100 cm (31-39 inches).
- Fixing: Connect the cabinets with metal brackets inside and attach the tabletop to the cabinets with screws. Wood glue provides extra strength.
- Reinforcement: For more stability, you can mount a small wood frame under the tabletop.

Common mistakes:
- Tabletop too thin
- Missing connection between tabletop and cabinet
- Desk height not ergonomic

By keeping these points in mind, you will get a small, stable desk made from Besta.