I want to make my own furniture for my home. Im looking for ideas for materials/construction techniques with regards to sturdyness. I want strong shelving, a bookshelf, an entertainment center, a nightstand, a bedframe.

But my first project is a general desk/work table. Suitible for office use such as a computer, reading, writing/drawing, as well as workshop uses (re)building, repairing anything i need. A lot of pics i see have crossbeams all the way around the bottom, but i need to leave one out so i can slide left and right with my chair.

I like dark, but honestly this is a trial run to learn the ropes, so i dont want to get super expensive if i dont need to. In a few years i can do a better set for a new home. I have a decent tool set and can buy what i need.