DIY Column Pedestal Table: Turning Fluted Cabinet Doors Into a Custom Accent Piece
There’s something so satisfying about taking something old, damaged, or forgotten and giving it new life—and this project might be one of my favorites for that reason alone. This DIY column pedestal table came together with salvaged cabinet doors, a thrifted wood table, and a little creative thinking.
The fluted doors were saved from a damaged cabinet, and instead of tossing them, I transformed them into a timeless, architectural side table that now lives in our living room. It’s beautiful, functional, and filled with meaning—especially because this was the very last project Cody and I worked on together.
Why I Love This DIY Column Pedestal Table
This project combines everything I love: budget-friendly DIY, repurposing old materials, and giving new life to something otherwise headed for the dump. With just a few tools, some glue, and a vision, I turned a plain thrift store find into a piece that feels high-end and custom.
And the best part? I had everything on hand. The fluted doors came from a broken cabinet I couldn’t save, and the table base was a $10 thrifted find. That made this DIY column pedestal table a zero-cost project—and one that now holds so much sentimental value.
Supplies I Used
Here’s what I used to build this DIY column pedestal table:
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1 tall, narrow wood table (thrifted)
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Fluted cabinet doors from a damaged piece {top damaged, you just can’t see it in the photo.}
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Wood glue + finish nails
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Clamps
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Saw to trim the doors to size
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Paint (Graphite by Benjamin Moore}
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Optional: wood filler or caulk for seams
This concept could easily be adapted with different materials like beadboard, trim pieces, or even reeded panels—anything with some texture that can be attached to the sides of a base.
Linen covered book boxes can be found here.
Similar antler dish can be found here.
How to Make a DIY Column Pedestal Table
Step 1: Measure and Trim
Cody and I measured the fluted cabinet doors and cut them to size so they would fit perfectly between the legs of the table. The goal was to wrap the sides of the base in texture and turn the silhouette into a column shape.
Step 2: Attach the Panels
Once trimmed, I used wood glue and finish nails to secure each panel to the table base. I clamped everything tightly and let it dry overnight. This is what gives the piece its structure and transformation into a DIY column pedestal table.
Step 3: Embrace the Happy Accident
I only had enough fluted material to cover three of the four sides. At first, I thought I’d need to come up with a new plan—but it turned out to be a happy accident. The open side now faces the wall, and I can actually use the inside of the pedestal for hidden storage. No one sees it, and it gives the piece even more function.
Step 4: Paint and Finish
After filling a few small gaps and lightly sanding the edges, I painted the entire piece in a soft neutral tone that works with the rest of our living room. The paint pulls it all together and lets the fluted texture shine.
Where This Table Lives Now
Our DIY column pedestal table sits in the living room, right next to the sofa. The height is perfect, the style is classic, and the added texture from the fluted doors gives it so much interest. It’s the kind of piece that looks far more expensive than it is, and it could easily be used in other rooms—a hallway, an entryway, or even as a unique nightstand.
It’s the kind of DIY that feels timeless and flexible, and it reminds me every day that creativity (and a little effort) can turn scraps into something beautiful.
The Sentimental Side of This Project
This was the last project Cody and I worked on together, and every time I look at it, I remember that moment. It’s not just a table—it’s a memory built into our home. And I think that’s the real beauty of DIY. It’s not always about perfection. Sometimes it’s about the process, the meaning, and the story behind the finished product.
More DIY Inspiration
If you liked this DIY column pedestal table, you’ll love our basement where I also made a DIY table out of 2 thrifted pieces! It’s another creative project that turns something simple into a designer-looking piece on a budget. Click here to take you there.
Also, if you’re looking for more ways to reuse what you have and style your home beautifully for less, check out my From Trash to Treasure e-book. It’s filled with tutorials, before-and-afters, and sourcing tips for transforming secondhand finds.
Save and Share This Idea
If this project inspired you, I’d love for you to pin your favorite images to save the idea for later. Sharing helps others discover how to reuse and repurpose materials in meaningful ways too.
And be sure to follow me on Instagram @mysweetsavannah, where I’m always sharing more affordable DIYs, thrift flips, and behind-the-scenes home moments. I also posted a how-to video of this pedestal table project there so you can see it in action!
And a quick reminder that you can easily shop our home and our favorite new finds right here on LTK!
