Creating a Stylish Storage Bench: A DIY Guide

Before and After: Kitchen Makeover with Scandinavian Style Built-in Bench — Before and After: A Stale Kitchen Gets a Simple Scandinavian-Inspired Makeover with a DIY Built-in Bench.

DIY Built-in Bench with Extra Storage — Learn how to create your own simple built-in bench for stylish seating and extra storage.

Is your kitchen feeling outdated and lacking storage space? We were in the same boat! That’s why we decided to embark on a kitchen makeover, focusing on budget-friendly solutions to maximize both style and functionality. This DIY built-in bench project is a key part of our kitchen transformation, offering a practical and aesthetically pleasing way to add seating and valuable storage.

Simple Built-In Bench for Kitchen Storage — This built-in bench provides a cozy seating area while cleverly concealing ample storage.

Our biggest challenge was the lack of storage. Adding more cabinets would have blown our budget, so we brainstormed creative alternatives. The solution? A simple, yet elegant, built-in bench! This project provided a two-for-one benefit: comfortable seating and hidden storage. It was the perfect way to optimize our kitchen space without breaking the bank. Are you ready to transform your kitchen with this easy and affordable DIY project?

DIY Built-In Bench: Materials and Tools You’ll Need

Before you start building your own storage bench, gather the necessary materials and tools. Here’s a comprehensive list to help you get organized:

2×4 Lumber: (Approximately 6, depending on your desired bench size) These will form the frame of the bench, providing structural support.
1/2″ Plywood Sheet: This will be used for the sides, front, and top of the bench, creating a smooth and paintable surface.
Miter Saw: Essential for making precise angle cuts on the 2x4s.
Pocket Hole Jig: This tool creates angled holes that allow you to join wood pieces together securely and invisibly. A Kreg jig is a popular and reliable option.
Drill: Needed for drilling pilot holes and driving screws.
Right Angle Clamp: Helps hold wood pieces together at a perfect 90-degree angle while you assemble them. A Kreg right angle clamp is recommended for its ease of use.
Table Saw: Used for cutting the plywood sheets to the required dimensions.
Brad Nailer: A power tool that uses small nails (brads) to attach wood pieces quickly and easily.
Wood Glue: Provides a strong and durable bond between wood surfaces.
Round-Over Router Bit: Used to create rounded edges on the bench and lid, preventing splinters and adding a professional touch.
Palm Sander: For smoothing the wood surfaces before painting. You’ll need both medium and fine grit sandpaper.
Stud Finder: Helps locate wall studs for securely attaching the bench to the wall.
2.5” Wood Screws: For attaching the bench frame and plywood pieces.
Pocket Hole Screws: Specifically designed for use with pocket hole joinery.
Caulk: Used to fill seams and nail holes for a seamless and professional finish.
Paint: Choose a paint color that matches your kitchen walls for a cohesive look.
Hinges: For attaching the bench lid, allowing it to open and close easily. Be sure to purchase the necessary accessories, such as screws.
Screwdriver: For installing the hinges and other hardware.
Measuring Tape: Crucial for accurate measurements and cuts.
Tack Cloth: Used to remove dust and debris from the wood surface before painting.

Important Note: Before you begin, consider the final dimensions of your bench. Our finished bench measures 18”X18”X60”. Remember that the actual dimensions of a 2×4 are 1.5” x 3.5”. Account for the 1/2” plywood on the sides, front, and top when calculating the length of your 2×4 frame pieces.

Step-by-Step Guide: Building Your DIY Storage Bench

Now that you have all your materials and tools, let’s get started on building your own built-in storage bench! Follow these easy steps for a successful and rewarding DIY project.

Step 1: Cutting the 2x4s

Cutting 2x4s for the Bench Frame — Use a miter saw to accurately cut the 2x4s according to the dimensions listed below.

Using your miter saw, carefully cut the 2x4s to the following lengths:

4 X 59” (These will be the long horizontal pieces of the frame)
6 X 10.5” (These will be the vertical support pieces)
5 X 14.5” (These will be the horizontal support pieces inside the frame)

Accurate cuts are essential for a sturdy and well-proportioned bench. Take your time and double-check your measurements before cutting.

Step 2: Drilling Pocket Holes

Drilling Pocket Holes for Assembly — Use a pocket hole jig to create angled holes for secure and hidden joinery.

Using your pocket hole jig, drill pocket holes in the 2x4s that will be used to assemble the frame. These holes will allow you to attach the pieces together with screws, creating a strong and seamless connection.

Using a Right Angle Clamp — A right angle clamp will help stabilize the 2x4s during assembly.

For added stability and accuracy, use a right angle clamp to hold the 2x4s in place while drilling the pocket holes.

Attaching the Frame with Pocket Hole Screws — Secure the frame pieces together using pocket hole screws.

Once the pocket holes are drilled, attach the 2x4s together using pocket hole screws to construct the frame of the bench. Refer to the image below for the correct arrangement of the pieces.

Completed Bench Frame — The completed 2×4 frame will provide a sturdy base for your storage bench.

Repeat this process until the entire frame is assembled. Ensure that all connections are tight and secure.

Step 3: Cutting the Plywood

Cutting Plywood for the Bench Walls — Use a table saw to cut the plywood sheets to the dimensions specified below.

Using your table saw, cut the 1/2” plywood sheets to the following dimensions:

Sides: 2 X 17.5X17.5″
Front: 1 X 17.5X60”
Top: 1 X 62X19” (This allows for a 1” overhang on the sides and front)

Accurate plywood cuts are crucial for a professional-looking finish. Double-check your measurements and use a sharp blade for clean cuts.

Step 4: Creating the Hinge Strip

Cutting a Hinge Strip for the Lid — Cut a strip of plywood to accommodate the hinges for the bench lid.

Cut a 3/4” strip off the top piece of plywood using your table saw. This strip will accommodate the hinges that attach the lid to the bench. We chose 3/4” hinges to ensure that both sides of the joint are supported by the 2×4 underneath. Trim the overhang off this thin strip so that the ends are flush with the sides of the bench (60”).

Step 5: Attaching the Plywood Walls

Attaching Plywood with Glue and Brad Nails — Use wood glue and a brad nailer to attach the plywood sides, front, and hinge strip to the frame.

Apply wood glue to the frame and attach the plywood front, sides, and the 3/4” hinge strip using a brad nailer. Ensure that the plywood pieces are flush with the frame before securing them with nails.

Plywood Attached to the Bench Frame — The plywood should be securely attached to the frame, creating the bench’s walls.

Step 6: Routing the Edges

Routing the Edges for a Smooth Finish — Use a round-over router bit to smooth the edges of the bench and lid, preventing splinters.

Use a round-over router bit to rout all edges of the bench and lid. This will prevent splintering and give the bench a more finished and professional look.

Step 7: Sanding

Sanding the Bench for a Smooth Surface — Sand the entire project with medium and fine grit sandpaper for a smooth and paintable surface.

Use a palm sander to sand the entire project, starting with medium grit sandpaper and finishing with fine grit sandpaper. This will create a smooth surface for painting. Wipe down the bench with a tack cloth to remove any dust or debris.

Step 8: Anchoring the Bench to the Wall

Anchoring the Bench to the Wall Studs — Securely attach the bench to the wall studs for stability and safety.

Use a stud finder to locate and mark the studs in the wall. Place the bench in its desired location and mark and drill pilot holes for the screws. Use 2.5” wood screws and a pocket hole drill bit for pilot holes. This will ensure that the bench is securely anchored to the wall studs and sub-floor.

Step 9: Caulking

Caulking Seams and Nail Holes — Caulk all seams and nail holes for a seamless and professional finish.

Apply caulk to all seams and nail holes and wipe clean with a damp cloth. Allow the caulk to dry completely.

Step 10: Painting

Painting the Bench and Lid — Paint the bench and lid separately, allowing each coat to dry completely.

Paint the bench and lid separately, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Choose a paint color that complements your kitchen décor.

Step 11: Marking Hinge Locations

Marking Hinge Locations on Bench and Lid — Carefully mark the locations for attaching the hinges to the bench and lid.

Mark the locations for attaching the hinges to both the bench and the lid. Accurate placement is crucial for smooth operation.

Step 12: Drilling Pilot Holes for Hinges

Drilling Pilot Holes for Hinge Screws — Drill pilot holes for the hinge screws to prevent splitting the wood.

Drill pilot holes at the marked locations for the hinge screws. This will prevent the wood from splitting when you attach the hinges.

Step 13: Attaching the Hinges

Attaching Hinges to the Bench and Lid — Use a screwdriver to carefully attach the hinges to the bench and lid.

Use a screwdriver to fasten the hinges to the bench and lid. Avoid stripping the screws or tearing out the wood. Ensure that the hinges are securely attached.

Step 14: Adding Baseboards

Adding Baseboards to the Bench — Finish off the bottom of the bench with painted baseboards to match the wall.

Finish off the bottom of the bench with painted baseboards that coordinate with the rest of the wall. Attach the baseboards using a brad nailer. Caulk any seams and nail holes and touch up with paint.

Finished Built-in Bench with Storage — Enjoy your newly built-in bench, offering both seating and ample storage!

The finished built-in bench is a game-changer for our little kitchen nook. It provides extra seating for 2-3 people and plenty of storage for all our pots, pans, and more. This DIY project is one you don’t want to miss before the big reveal!

Stylish and Functional Built-in Bench — Our new built-in bench adds both style and functionality to our kitchen.

Transform your kitchen with this easy and affordable DIY built-in bench! It’s the perfect solution for adding extra seating and maximizing storage space.