A wall mounted desk saves up to 50% of floor space compared to traditional desks while providing a fully functional workspace that folds away when not in use.
These space-saving desks work best in small rooms, apartments, and multipurpose spaces where you need flexibility without sacrificing productivity.
What Is a Wall Mounted Desk?
Think of a wall mounted desk as a Murphy bed for your workspace. It attaches directly to your wall and can fold up or down when needed. You get all the benefits of a regular desk without eating up precious floor space.
These desks come in two main styles: permanent fixtures that stay open, and folding versions that tuck away. Both mount securely to wall studs for safety and stability.
Major Benefits of Wall Mounted Desks
Space Efficiency
You’ll free up massive amounts of floor space. A standard desk takes up about 12 square feet. A wall mounted version uses zero floor space when folded up.
This makes them perfect for studio apartments, kids’ bedrooms, or any room that serves multiple purposes.
Clean, Modern Look
Wall mounted desks create a floating effect that makes rooms feel larger and more open. They eliminate the visual bulk of desk legs and supports.
You can choose from sleek modern designs or rustic wood styles to match your decor.
Adjustable Height Options
You control exactly where to mount your desk. Want it higher for standing work? Lower for kids? You decide during installation.
Budget-Friendly Solution
Most wall mounted desks cost 30-50% less than comparable traditional desks. You’re paying for the desktop surface, not expensive legs and supports.
Drawbacks to Consider
Weight Limitations
Most wall mounted desks support 50-100 pounds maximum. That’s fine for laptops and papers, but heavy desktop computers might be too much.
Always check the weight rating before loading up your desk with equipment.
Installation Requirements
You must mount these desks into wall studs for safety. This means finding studs, drilling holes, and potentially patching walls if you move.
Renters might face restrictions from landlords about wall mounting furniture.
Limited Storage
You lose the drawers and shelves that come with traditional desks. Storage becomes your responsibility through separate organizers and shelving.
Stability Concerns
Wall mounted desks can wobble more than four-legged desks, especially when typing or writing. The longer the desktop, the more potential flex you’ll experience.
Types of Wall Mounted Desks
Drop-Down Folding Desks
These fold flat against the wall when not in use. Perfect for guest rooms or multipurpose spaces where the desk disappears completely.
Fixed Floating Desks
Permanently mounted shelves that serve as desks. Simple, sturdy, and always ready to use.
Corner Wall Desks
Designed to fit into corners, making use of often-wasted space. Great for small rooms where every inch counts.
Adjustable Wall Desks
Some models let you adjust height even after installation. These cost more but offer flexibility as your needs change.
Installation Guide
Tools You’ll Need
- Stud finder
- Drill with bits
- Level
- Measuring tape
- Pencil for marking
- Safety glasses
Step-by-Step Installation
1. Find Your Wall Studs
Use a stud finder to locate at least two studs where you want your desk. Studs are typically 16 or 24 inches apart.
Mark the stud locations with light pencil marks. Double-check by knocking on the wall – studs sound solid, not hollow.
2. Measure and Mark
Decide on your desk height. Standard desk height is 29-30 inches from the floor. Standing desks work well at 38-42 inches.
Use your level to draw a horizontal line across both studs at your chosen height.
3. Drill Pilot Holes
Drill pilot holes slightly smaller than your mounting screws. This prevents the wood from splitting and makes screwing easier.
4. Mount the Brackets
Attach the mounting brackets to the wall first, then connect the desktop. Most desks come with heavy-duty brackets rated for the desk’s weight limit.
Use the screws provided – they’re designed for the bracket’s weight rating.
Safety Tips
Never mount into drywall alone. You must hit solid wood studs for safety. A falling desk can cause serious injury.
If you can’t find studs in the right location, consider using a different wall or hiring a handyman.
Choosing the Right Size
Width Considerations
Measure your available wall space and subtract 6 inches for clearance. A 48-inch desk needs at least 54 inches of wall space.
Most people find 36-48 inches wide gives enough workspace without overwhelming small rooms.
Depth Requirements
Standard depths range from 16-24 inches. Deeper desks hold more but stick out further from the wall.
I found that 18-20 inches works well for most laptop users, while desktop computer users prefer 22-24 inches.
Height Planning
Consider who will use the desk most. Kids need lower heights (24-26 inches), while tall adults might want 31-32 inches.
Best Materials and Durability
Solid Wood Options
Oak, maple, and walnut offer the best durability and appearance. They cost more but last decades with proper care.
Engineered Wood
MDF and plywood cost less and work well for light use. Look for thick options (at least 1 inch) to minimize sagging.
Metal and Glass
Modern materials that clean easily and look sleek. Metal brackets with wood or glass tops offer good strength-to-weight ratios.
Laminate Surfaces
Budget-friendly and easy to clean. They resist stains and scratches better than raw wood but don’t look as premium.
Organization Solutions
Overhead Shelving
Add floating shelves above your desk for books and supplies. Keep them 18-24 inches above the desk surface to avoid head bumping.
Side Storage
Wall-mounted storage cubes or small cabinets on either side of your desk create the storage you’re missing.
Under-Desk Options
Rolling carts that slide under your desk give you drawer space that moves with you. Perfect for folding desks that need to clear completely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Ignoring Wall Type
Plaster walls, drywall, and concrete all need different mounting approaches. Research your wall type before buying brackets.
Overloading Weight Limits
That 75-pound rating includes everything – computer, books, lamp, and any pressure from leaning on the desk.
Poor Cable Management
Plan for power and data cables before installation. Drilling holes for cables after mounting is much harder.
Maintenance and Care
Check mounting screws every 6 months for looseness. Wall movement and daily use can gradually loosen connections.
Clean surfaces regularly to prevent stains from setting in. Wood surfaces benefit from occasional conditioning to prevent drying and cracking.
Conclusion
Wall mounted desks offer an smart solution for small spaces and modern homes. You’ll gain floor space, create a clean look, and save money compared to traditional desks. The trade-offs include weight limits, installation requirements, and reduced storage.
Success comes down to proper installation into wall studs and realistic expectations about weight limits. With careful planning and quality materials, your wall mounted desk will serve you well for years while keeping your space flexible and organized.
Can wall mounted desks hold a desktop computer?
Most wall mounted desks can support desktop computers if they’re within the weight limit, typically 50-100 pounds total. Measure your computer’s weight plus monitor, keyboard, and other items to ensure you stay within limits.
Do wall mounted desks damage walls when removed?
Removing a wall mounted desk leaves screw holes that need filling and painting. The damage is minimal and easily repaired with wood filler or spackle, similar to removing any wall-mounted furniture.
What wall types work best for mounting desks?
Drywall over wood studs works perfectly for most wall mounted desks. Concrete and brick walls can also work but need special anchors and drill bits. Avoid mounting on plaster walls without professional help.
How much weight can I safely put on a folding wall desk?
Folding wall desks typically support 30-75 pounds when properly mounted to studs. Check your specific model’s rating and remember that this includes everything on the desk surface plus any downward pressure from use.
Can renters install wall mounted desks without damaging their deposit?
Many landlords allow wall mounting with proper repair upon move-out. Get written permission first and budget for professional patching and painting. Consider temporary solutions like leaning shelf desks if mounting isn’t allowed.
