Let’s build a diy storage hutch with metal accents.
A DIY tutorial to build a desk storage hutch. Free plans to add compartment style cubbies above a desk for more organization.
Happy Friday friends.  Ana White and I are back with this week’s handmade holiday gift build, it is the most functional and practical of all the builds but still has great style points too. A storage hutch with magnetic metal strips and hardware cloth backing makes a great gift or the perfect place to set up advent countdown gifts!
Ana made the plans for this storage hutch very straightforward, no miter cuts, no fancy jigsaw work, just measure and assemble.  It’s built almost entirely from 1x10s which gives lots of depth.
Our storage hutch with metal accents was inspired by this:
Pottery Barn’s metal storage hutch (no longer available).
Their version is all metal and because I’m not a welder we built our storage hutch out of wood with metal accents.
And I’m loving the contrast between the warm wood and the cool metal accents.
I used lath screws to attach the metal strips, they are almost like a screw and washer in one and give a nice smooth finished look will securely holding the metal strip in place.
Add some magnets and the metal strips become a place to hang cards, notes, etc.
The metal accents on the hutch tie in beautifully with the wood and pipe bed.
Even though this hutch is nearly 10″ deep there is still plenty of work space on the desk surface.
And if you’re wondering if that’s a DIY desk you would be correct. You can build the desk too with Ana’s plans here. That’s one complete diy desk and hutch set.
Below are the a few process photos and details on how to build the desk hutch. As always read through the plans entirely before beginning and be sure to follow all tool safety guidelines.
For this project you will need:
- Ana’s plans
- lumber
- 1 1/4″ pocket hole screws
- 3/4″ lath screws
- 3 – 1/8″ thick x 3/4″ wide flat metal bar @ 48″l
- 1/2″ hardware cloth
- miter saw
- pocket hole jig
- drill & drill bits
- wood glue
- staple gun & staples
Step 1: Follow Ana’s plans and build the frame then start adding shelves.
Step 2: Sand and stain then staple 1/2″ hardware cloth to the backside. You could opt for a solid 1/4″ plywood backing if hardware cloth isn’t your style.
Step 3: Cut 3/4″ x 1/8″thick steel strips to length then predrill holes for lath screws and attach.
Place on top of desk and you’re ready to use. If you are concerned about tipping you can secure the hutch to the desk at the back using mending plates.
SHOP THIS PROJECT:
Don’t forget to check out all the handmade holiday gift builds from this series. We have many years worth of gift project ideas, you’re sure to find something for that special person on your list.
Be sure to follow along on social media as I share sneak peeks and project posts:
Jaime, I love this, and the way you styled it is soooo cute!
Question: are the metal strips are something you picked up at Lowes or Home Depot? What are they called?
This looks fantastic. I love it!