Build a Metropolitan End Table

A Catalog Inspired End Table with a Classic Look

If I have enough room in what will become our new living room (or sitting room, if you will), I am definitely building this piece! The DIY furniture plans to build a Metropolitan End Table (inspired by Pottery Barn) features a rectangular top with tapered legs and two shelves. The end table is so incredibly easy to build using countersunk screws, and as an added accent, trim can be secured to the apron under the top.

build metropolitan end table

Materials:

  • 1-1/4″ screws (<– affiliate link!)
  • 1-1/2″ brad nails
  • Edge banding (<– affiliate link!)
  • Wood glue
  • Sandpaper (100, 150, 220 grits)
  • Finishing supplies (stain & sealer or primer & paint)

Lumber:

  • 1 – 1×2 at 8′
  • 2 – 1×3 at 6′
  • 1 – 4′ x 4′ sheet of 3/4″ plywood

Cut List:

  • 4 – 1×3 at 24-1/4″ – Legs
  • 2 – 1×2 at 15-1/2″ – End Aprons
  • 2 – 1×2 at 20-1/2″ – Side Aprons
  • 2 – 3/4″ plywood at 15-1/2″ x 15-1/2″ – Shelves
  • 1 – 3/4″ plywood at 18-1/2″ x 22″ – Top

build metropolitan end table dimensions

Notes about the project:

Edge banding will be applied to the exposed edges of the plywood prior to assembly.

Step One

Cut the pieces for the legs, as shown in the drawing. The taper can be cut using a tapering jig on a table saw (<– great read!) or by using a jigsaw.

build metropolitan end table legs

Step Two

Cut the pieces for the end aprons. Secure the end aprons to the tapered side edges of the legs using glue and countersunk 1-1/4″ screws.

build metropolitan end table end aprons

Step Three

Cut the pieces for the side aprons. Secure the side aprons to the flat faces of the legs (covering the ends of the end aprons) using glue and countersunk 1-1/4″ screws.

build metropolitan end table side aprons

Step Four

Cut the pieces for the shelves and cut the notches using a jigsaw. Secure the shelves to the legs using glue and countersunk 1-1/4″ screws through the flat faces of the legs into the shelves.

build metropolitan end table shelves

build metropolitan end table shelves secured

Step Five

Cut the piece for the top. Secure the top to the aprons using glue and 1-1/2″ brad nails. The top will overhang the aprons by 3/4″ on all sides.

build metropolitan end table top

Finish as desired.

This end table can be finished in a variety of ways to match any decor, and is the perfect weekend project! Have any questions about the DIY furniture plans to build a Metropolitan End Table? Leave a comment below!

Other Helpful How-To Posts to Make Table Legs: