Custom Retrofitted Desk

Personal Project · Grandpa’s Shop

Summary

I designed a rework of my 10 year old desk. I thought I could make something more functional for my lifestyle as an engineering student and tinkerer. I gave myself a larger space that could work as a benchtop, study area, notetaking, or playing video games. Oh and it had to look good!

I had a crazy idea and I executed. Sold my El Camino, bought a commuter car, and built this!

Constraints and Goals

Improve ergonomics by reducing head movement between tablet and primary display
Maximize usable surface area so the desk could function as both a workstation and benchtop
Retrofit an existing 10-year-old desk frame rather than starting from scratch
Integrate extensive electronics and power distribution within a small room footprint
Maintain a clean, cable-free appearance while preserving service access

Embedded a secondary monitor directly into the desk surface for improved ergonomics
Distributed power and USB connections to manage load and simplify device integration
Implemented internal cable routing using channels, trays, and pass throughs
Added custom storage including retrofitted drawers, hidden compartments, and a ventilated laptop drawer
Designed the system to be modular and expandable, allowing features to be added beyond initial CAD

`Build & Integration`

Designed in SolidWorks and executed as a woodworking project supplemented with custom 3D printed components, including faceplates, cable guides, and grommets. Electronics integration included LED lighting and a custom built physical audio mixer using an Arduino Nano. The project evolved iteratively during fabrication as new use cases emerged.

Laptop Drawer

Physical Volume Mixer and I/O Interface

Hidden Compartments

Embedded Monitor

`Outcome & Takeaways`

Served as my primary workstation for approximately four years
Significantly improved comfort, workflow efficiency, and daily usability
Reinforced the importance of designing for real-world use, serviceability, and iteration under retrofit constraints
A stronger bond with my grandpa