The Manta Desk

I crafted this custom desk for a client who was searching for a piano desk for his daughter. Unhappy with the options available on the market, he reached out to me to create something unique. We collaborated to fine-tune the dimensions, select the right materials, and finalize the overall aesthetic. His goal was to have a piece that would eventually be passed down to his grandkids.

The construction features 2x2-inch thick Walnut legs and 1.25-inch thick Walnut for the base, sides, and top. I joined the sides to the base using half laps reinforced with Walnut dowels, while dados connect the sides to the legs. The base is attached to the legs with four Maloof joints, and the top is secured to the rear legs using two Maloof joints. The lid is mounted to the top with three SOS hinges, which include a soft-close feature. For the back, I used hardboard, painted it black, and integrated a cable management system for the piano.

The desk measures approximately 55" wide, 18" deep, and 32" high.

One of the key design elements is the live edge on the front of the lid. I matched its natural contour with a subtle indent at the bottom to create a convenient slot for opening and closing. For added strength, the lid is doweled into the top and back, giving the desk its distinctive “Manta Ray” look.

To enhance the visual appeal, I added a touch of contrast with jet-black resin, accentuating the organic lines of the front.