Multi-device charging station built into an IKEA bench

We made a multi-device charging station dock for our laptop and tablet.

For our project, we used the very inexpensive IKEA LACK TV bench, which costs only $15.99.

It was also our object of choice because:

You can cut holes into it.

Easily.

The docking station tucks neatly away beside our sofa and is easily accessible.

IKEA items used:
LACK TV bench
LACK TV bench | IKEA.com
Materials and tools:
  • Electrical socket outlet (I used the “Gewiss Chorus” Flush Socket Outlet)
  • Electrical cable
  • Drill
  • Electric saw
  • Plastic wall corner guards/protectors
  • Glue
  • Foam or another soft sheet material

Hack instructions for DIY multi-device charging station:

Outline the slots for the socket outlet, and for the electronic devices (Tablet/Laptop).

DIY multi-device charging station - IKEA hack

Drill a hole in each of the corners of the outlined slots (these holes will be used as an entry point for the electric saw).

DIY multi-device charging station - IKEA hack

Cut out the outlined slots using the electric saw.

Wire the electrical cable to the socket outlet.

DIY multi-device charging station - IKEA hack

DIY multi-device charging station - IKEA hack

Cover the rough sides of the cut-out slots using the plastic corner guards; Cut out a frame (similar to the shape of a picture frame) from the plastic corner guards; Use glue to attach them to the TV bench.

Measure the height of your electric devices, allow the shortest device to extend about 6-8cm (3 inches) from the top of the table.

Remove the bottom shelf of the TV bench; measure and mark the new height and reinstall the shelf.

DIY multi-device charging station - IKEA hack

Cover the shelf using the foam (the electric devices will rest on this foam).

Multi-device charging station done!

DIY multi-device charging station - IKEA hack

DIY multi-device charging station - IKEA hack

The station is not visible from the main areas of our living room.

DIY multi-device charging station - IKEA hack

Quietly filling up our devices with juice in the corner.

DIY multi-device charging station - IKEA hack

DIY multi-device charging station - IKEA hack

More info:

If you have access to a 3d printer – then you should print the cover frame for the slots – this will save you tons of time cutting them accurately from plastic corner guards.

DIY multi-device charging station - IKEA hack

Since this project involves electricity, please make sure you know what you are doing; if in doubt – use a professional to wire the outlet socket.

~ by Alon