CPU Base Bookshelf with Drawer
Build this versatile CPU base bookshelf with drawer using, perfect for custom desk systems or stand-alone storage. Designed at 16” deep, this unit is ideal for supporting a desktop and storing deeper items like CPUs, large files, or books. Use it as the base for a desk or as a compact bookshelf in any room. Features: • Deep 16” design for larger bins, CPU towers, or deeper shelves • Integrated drawer with full-extension guides for office supplies • Vertical divider shelf for organizing papers or books • Solid top surface for supporting a desktop or monitor • Beginner-friendly design using plywood and 1x boards • Ideal for pairing with matching bookshelf base for a built-in desk setup The includes: • Full cut list and shopping list • Step-by-step instructions with photos and diagrams • Options for customizing height, width, or drawer depth • Finishing suggestions to match your room or desk Perfect for home offices, bedrooms, kids' homework stations, or anywhere you need compact, functional furniture. MATCHING PLANS: Wide Bookshelf
Specifications
| Project type | Desk, Desk Systems and Project Table Plans |
|---|---|
| Room | office |
| Difficulty | Beginner Projects |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 10 feet of 3/4" plywood, ripped insert strips 15-3/4" wide (about 1/2 a sheet)
- 1 - 1x4 @ 10 feet long
- 1 - 1x2 @ 6 feet long
- 1 - 1x6 @ 2 feet long
- 1/4" plywood for back and drawer bottom
- 16" bottom corner mount euro style drawer slides (white)
- knob or handle
Cut List
- 2 - 3/4" plywood @ 15-3/4" x 29-1/4" (sides)
- 2 - 1x4 @ 19-1/2" (bottom footers)
- 1 - 3/4" plywood @ 15-3/4" x 19-1/2" (shelf)
- 1 - 3/4" plywood @ 15-3/4" x 17-3/4" (divider)
- 2 - 3/4" plywood @ 15-3/4" x 9-1/4" (cubby shelf)
- 4 - 1x2 @ 19-1/2"
DRAWER
- 2 - 1x4 @ 16" (drawer sides)
- 2 - 1x4 @ 17" (drawer front/back)
- 1 - 1/4" plywood @ 18-1/2" x 16" (bottom)
- 1- 1x6 @ 19-1/4" (drawer face)
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- hearing protection
- kreg-jig
- drill
- circular saw
- nailer
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1
Attach sides to bottom footer pieces. We used 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws hidden on the inside.
Step 2
Set bottom shelf on footer pieces and attach. We used pocket holes again, but also attached to the footer pieces with 1-1/4" finish nails and glue.
Step 3
Build the divider piece separately (we again used pocket holes) and position inside cabinet. Then attach to side with glue and finish nails.
Step 4
Attach 1x2s to upper portion of cabinet - we again used pocket holes.
Step 5
Step 6
Install drawer into base with drawer slide, keeping a 3/4" space to front to allow for drawer face.
Step 7
Attach drawer face to drawer with 1-1/4" finish nails and glue. Also add a few 1-1/4" screws (we just used pocket hole screws) to ensure drawer face doesn't come off. TIP: You may wish to install handle/knob before attaching to drawer face. For the top, we used an 1" thick pine panel piece that spanned the entire length of the room, screwed through the 1x2s in the base.
Finishing
Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.
Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/diy-cpu-base-bookshelf-drawer-free-plans-desk-systems