Building a coat rack with storage is a practical and rewarding project that combines functionality with style. Whether you’re looking to minimize clutter in your entryway or add a unique touch to your home décor, a DIY coat rack with storage provides the perfect solution. This guide will walk you through the steps of how to build a coat rack with storage space as your needs. With a few tools, materials, and some creativity, you can craft a piece that is both useful and personalized.
Benefits of a Coat Rack with Storage
A coat rack with storage offers numerous advantages that make it a valuable addition to any home. Firstly, it helps to reduce clutter by providing a designated space for coats, scarves, hats, and other items, keeping your entryway or living area tidy and organized.
Secondly, the added storage compartments or shelves can be used to store shoes, bags, or seasonal items, maximizing the use of limited space. Additionally, a coat rack with storage combines practicality with aesthetics, allowing you to enhance your home décor while maintaining functionality. It also ensures that essential items are easily accessible, saving time when heading out the door. Overall, this versatile piece of furniture can significantly improve the organization and style of your home.
Types of Coat Racks with Storage
Coat racks with storage come in a variety of styles to suit different needs and home designs. One popular option is the wall-mounted coat rack, which features hooks and small shelves, making it ideal for smaller spaces like entryways or apartments. Another type is the freestanding coat rack with built-in storage, often equipped with multiple tiers for hanging items and compartments or drawers at the base for additional storage.
For those seeking a more robust solution, hall tree coat racks combine bench seating with hooks and shelves, providing a multi-functional piece perfect for mudrooms or larger entryways. Lastly, over-the-door coat racks with storage are a great choice for maximizing unused door space, often including hooks and small baskets for compact organization. Each type offers unique benefits while keeping your space tidy and stylish.
10 Methods How to Build a Coat Rack with Storage
1. Choose a Suitable Location and Take Accurate Measurements
The first step in building a coat rack with storage is to assess where it will be installed. Entryways, mudrooms, or hallways are common spots. Once you determine the location, take precise measurements of the available space.
Consider the height, width, and depth you can work with—this will influence everything from how tall the rack can be to how deep the storage compartments should go. A good rule of thumb is to make the coat rack at least 6 feet tall to accommodate hanging garments, and the depth of the base should be sufficient to store shoes or bins, usually around 12 to 18 inches.
2. Design Your Rack to Combine Functionality and Aesthetics
Once you know your dimensions, sketch a simple design or use software to visualize the coat rack. Decide whether it will have cubbies, drawers, benches, or a combination of all. You might include open shelves above the hooks for baskets or closed compartments below for shoes and accessories.
Consider the number of hooks you’ll need and space them out to allow for bulky coats. The style should reflect your home—whether rustic, modern, or traditional—so think about finishes and trims accordingly. Planning your design carefully at this stage ensures a cohesive and functional final piece.
3. Select Quality Wood and Materials for Durability
Choosing the right materials can make your coat rack last for years. Solid wood like pine, oak, or poplar is ideal for structural strength and an attractive finish. For more budget-conscious builds, medium-density fiberboard (MDF) or plywood may be used for shelving or backing.
You’ll also need sturdy coat hooks, screws, wood glue, and brackets for reinforcement. If your design includes drawers or doors, you’ll require additional hardware like hinges or drawer slides. Picking durable, high-quality materials from the start will help your rack withstand daily use and resist warping or loosening over time.
4. Build the Frame and Base for Stability
Start your build by constructing the base and vertical frame of the rack. The base often serves as a bench or storage platform, so it needs to be stable and level. Use a circular saw or table saw to cut your wood pieces, and assemble them using pocket-hole screws and wood glue for strength.
Vertical support boards should be evenly spaced and securely attached to the base, as they’ll support both the hooks and any upper shelving. Check all corners with a square tool to maintain proper alignment. The more precise this step is, the easier the remaining build will be.
5. Create and Install Shelves or Cubbies
If your design includes shelving or cubbies, now is the time to construct them. Cut boards to size and attach them between the vertical supports using wood glue and screws. Pre-drill holes to avoid splitting, and use clamps to hold everything in place while drying.
Cubbies can be open for easy access or fitted with baskets for a neater look. You might even add dividers to keep items separated. Shelves above the hook area provide great storage for hats, gloves, or seasonal gear and enhance the visual balance of the rack.
6. Attach Coat Hooks and Ensure Even Spacing
Coat hooks are the heart of the coat rack. Measure and mark evenly spaced positions along the midsection of your frame, typically around 60 to 70 inches from the floor. Drill pilot holes before installing each hook to prevent wood splitting and to ensure secure attachment.
Staggering hooks in two rows can offer additional hanging space without cluttering the design. Choose sturdy, stylish hooks made of metal or hardwood, and screw them in tightly. Consider hooks with double arms for added capacity. The placement should allow for both long coats and smaller items like bags or scarves.
7. Sand All Surfaces for a Smooth Finish
Before painting or staining, sand every surface thoroughly using a sanding block or electric sander. Start with coarse grit sandpaper (e.g., 80 grit) to remove rough spots and then move to finer grits (120–220) to smooth the wood. Pay extra attention to edges and corners that may be touched frequently. Wipe down all surfaces with a tack cloth to remove dust. This step is critical not just for a professional look, but also for safety—smooth edges prevent splinters and give a more refined feel to the finished piece.
8. Apply Paint, Stain, or Finish for Protection
Now it’s time to apply your desired finish. Use wood stain for a natural or rustic look that enhances grain, or choose a durable paint that matches your room’s decor. Apply thin, even coats with a brush or roller, allowing ample drying time between layers. For a more polished look, apply a clear polyurethane sealant on top of the paint or stain to protect against moisture and daily wear. If using spray paint or lacquer, work in a well-ventilated area. This finishing step will define the final look of your rack and help it stand up to heavy usage.
9. Install Back Panel or Mounting Supports
Depending on your design, you might add a back panel made of beadboard, plywood, or decorative paneling. This not only adds structural support but also improves aesthetics. Cut the back panel to fit and attach it with brad nails or screws, making sure it’s flush with the frame. If the coat rack will be mounted directly to a wall rather than freestanding, now’s the time to install the wall anchors or French cleats. Locate wall studs and use appropriate hardware to ensure the rack is safely secured and won’t tip over when loaded.
10. Add Personal Touches and Organize Your Space
With the coat rack complete, it’s time to personalize and organize. Add labeled baskets or bins in the cubbies for each family member, or decorate the top shelf with greenery, framed photos, or seasonal decor. You might include a small chalkboard for messages or a mirror for last-minute touch-ups before leaving the house. Think of the rack as both functional furniture and a visual anchor for your entryway. Keeping it neat and curated will make your home feel more organized and welcoming from the moment you walk through the door.
Conclusion
Building a coat rack with storage is more than just a woodworking project—it’s a way to blend form and function in your home. Through thoughtful design, careful material selection, and attention to detail, you can create a piece that streamlines your daily routine and reflects your personal style. Whether rustic or modern, compact or expansive, a handmade coat rack with storage is a worthy addition to any well-organized entryway. Thanks for reading our blog post on how to build a coat rack with storage! We hope you found it helpful and informative.