My Favorite Studio Table (Made from IKEA + a Little Ingenuity)
My favorite studio table ever!
There are a few things in my studio that I use every single day—and this table is one of them.
I built it using a combination of IKEA pieces, and it works so well because it’s flexible. Instead of forcing me into one setup, it adjusts to the task (and the day).
Why this table works: flexibility = less friction
When my work surface can change quickly—height, layout, angle—I spend less time adjusting my environment and more time actually making work.
3 features that make the difference
1. Adjustable height (standing-friendly) I can lower or raise it depending on what I’m doing. Right now I have it at 36.5 inches, and I think it can go a little higher. I prefer to stand, so this is a key feature for me.
You can lower and raise the table by moving the round pegs into the holes on the sides.
2. Two tables pushed together (or split apart) This setup is actually two tables side by side. I can keep them together as one large surface, or separate them if I want two separate workstations.
These heavy-duty tables are still fairly light, and you can move them easily.
3. Adjustable ends (angle options) I can adjust the ends of each table, so I can change the working angle when that’s useful.
How I use it (real studio workflow)
This table is my home base for:
collage (space to spread out materials and cut up paper)
painting prep + mixing
staging works-in-progress
keeping tools within reach without cluttering my painting area
Quick specs
Table top size when both pieces are together: 47.5 x 55 inches
Current height: 36.5 inches (adjustable)
IKEA parts list
Want the DIY version?
If you want to build your own version, I made a one-page PDF with everything you need - you can take this with you to the IKEA store or when you're ordering online. This will also sign you up for my twice-a-month newsletter, and you can always unsubscribe at any time, if you wish.
You can probably tell if you look at the images carefully on this post that I have a lot of IKEA furniture. I've accumulated it over the years, but I can tell you, hands down, this has been the best investment I've ever made.