IVAR Computer Cabinet

[u/LukasLuchtloper]

Wanted to create a dedicated and compact retro gaming station that could be closed when not in use. Inspired by old school computer desks.

• All wood is from extra IVAR shelves (discount corner <3)
• Top shelf has a USB power COB LED strip, with the cable embedded in the shelf's side, routed through the back and into a cutout to the computer. Completely invisible!
• USB cable for the light is hooked up to a momentary door switch, so only turns on when the doors are open!
• The cabinet sits on slats, which are then mounted to the brackets,. This is so it could sit flush with the IVAR frame sides (giving the doors space to fully open)
• The keyboard drawer sits on regular drawer sliders, a finger groove was routed in the front to make it easy to pull out
• Added small horizontal support slats to the sides, so the game cases don't fall through.

Tools used:

• Circular saw
• Drill
• Router with profile bit

Depending on the level of detail you want, this is pretty straightforward to do. Hope this inspires a side project ☺️

[u/Squirrelking666]

LMAO, first thought when I saw it was "the 90s called, they want their stuff back".

Good work, really looks the part.

[u/Danoli77 → u/Squirrelking666]

I’m glad I read first because I was about the day the same thing

[u/Cheesetoast9 → u/Squirrelking666]

Grandma's 90's computer desk vibes.

[u/Baconshit → u/Squirrelking666]

Looks like the computers they have in model homes. Or, yeah, the 90s.

[u/DunkyKingCounter]

Looking good! I like the attention to detail with the lighting, keyboard drawer and door trim.

[u/LukasLuchtloper → u/DunkyKingCounter]

Thank you! 😊

[u/baconcow]

I wouldn't want the doors to be opened like that while I'm on the computer.

[u/LukasLuchtloper → u/baconcow]

I did like it more before they went on, but that wasn't the plan. An ideal design would have doors that slide sideways and then flip onto the sides 😄

[u/lurksFromToilet → u/LukasLuchtloper]

Have you looked into 180 or 270 degree hinge replacements? You might be able to find one that fits your door profile

[u/LukasLuchtloper → u/lurksFromToilet]

I haven't, thanks for the tip! That could be an improvement 🙂

[u/myfriend92 → u/LukasLuchtloper]

You could als saw the doods lengthwise and apply another set of hinges, so they’re only half size

[u/Sp6rda → u/baconcow]

Nah the doors become privacy walls so ther rest of the family cant see your screen.

[u/-darknessangel-]

Oh my god! A gentleman of refined tastes!

[u/leutnant13]

Cool setup! 😍 But make sure to NOT connect the PC to the internet while running Windows XP!

[u/gravespy720]

The only callout I’ll make is to find a little more sturdy for the pc itself. You can see that board is already starting to flex under the weight. Between the heat from the machine and the weight, it might give out sooner than later and I’d hate to see that PC fall. Also, if there are vents on the side of the PC make sure there’s space for it to breathe. It might start getting too hot and shutting down on its own.

Edit: how do I know all this? I’ve worked in IT Help Desks since 2007.

[u/LukasLuchtloper → u/gravespy720]

Absolutely! That didn't pan out as hoped. It's completely repurposed from an IVAR drawer, which doesn't have the studiest bottom.

There's a big cutout in the back for cables and ventilation, running temperature seems in check!

[u/AdPristine9059]

Could use this as a server hideout as well... Pretty cool idea!

[u/Tasty-Meaning1190]

How did you do the retractable keyboard?

[u/LukasLuchtloper → u/Tasty-Meaning1190]

It's a board that's mounted on drawer slides that are mounted flat.

I would recommend using slides that mount to the sides though, which is far studier. Currently there's a bit of flex.

[u/bucket_of_swans]

I like what you've done with the setup. Haven't seen that monitor size and aspect ratio in such a long time. Windows XP brings back so much fond memories of my childhood.

[u/AltruisticFilm4466]

Please tell me that PC isn’t connected to the Internet