Do you have a small, narrow space in your home or office that needs a little bit of extra seating and storage? A seating bench with storage can be the perfect piece of furniture to maximize functionality for any area.
Not only does this type of bench provide comfortable, convenient places to sit, but it also offers hidden storage beneath its surfaces for items like linens, books, toys or other household items.
In this blog post — we’ll explore how to build a seating bench with storage capabilities! Learn about gathering all the materials needed for building a DIY seating bench with storage plus get detailed instructions on putting together every step along the way. So give yourself some time and let’s dive right into building our own unique piece of furniture today!
The Functionality and Versatility of a Seating Bench with Storage
A seating bench with storage can be a great addition to any space. Not only does it provide a comfortable place to sit, but it also offers plenty of storage for books, blankets, toys and other items. The versatility of this piece makes it an ideal choice for entryways, bedrooms, living rooms, offices and more.
With the right design and materials, you can create a seating bench that is both stylish and functional. Here are some of the advantages of having a seating bench with storage:
1. Versatility:
Seating benches with storage provide extra seating in any room, which can be used to entertain guests, or provide additional space for family members when needed. Additionally, they also offer plenty of storage for items you want to keep out of sight.
2. Space-Saving:
Seating benches with storage offer both seating and storage, making it a great space-saving option for small spaces. It is also ideal for homes that have limited storage or do not have room for large pieces of furniture. This type of seating bench can be used as extra seating around a dining table, or as an accent piece in any room.
3. Comfort:
Seating benches with storage are usually designed with comfort in mind and are often padded or cushioned so they provide extra support when sitting or lounging on them. Additionally, many come with armrests and backings which provide additional comfort and stability while seated.
4. Style:
Seating benches with storage come in a variety of styles and materials, which allows you to find the one that fits your existing décor. Whether you are looking for a modern design or a traditional style, there is sure to be one that will fit your needs.
Benefits of Building Your Own Bench
Building your own bench with storage is a great way to add seating and storage space to any room. Not only does it provide an organized and functional area to relax or work, but it also adds a unique aesthetic.
By creating your own seating bench with storage, you can customize the size, material, and style of the bench—allowing you to create something that perfectly fits your space.
You can also save money by building your own seating bench with storage. Buying pre-made furniture can be expensive; but by making it yourself, you can control how much you spend. You will only need basic tools and materials for most DIY benches—meaning even if you’re a beginner DIYer, this project is an achievable goal.
Plus, since many benches are easy to assemble and disassemble, they are great for renters who want to add extra seating without committing to a long-term design.
Another benefit of building your own bench is that you can tailor the storage to your needs. You can customize the number and type of shelves, drawers, or cubbies—making it easy to store items like books, games, toys, blankets, and more. Plus, benches make for great multipurpose pieces—allowing you to use them as seating one moment and storage space the next.
Overall, building a custom seating bench with storage offers numerous advantages. By taking on this do-it-yourself project, you can create an attractive and functional piece that perfectly fits your home—all while saving money in the process.
So if you’re looking to add some extra seating and storage space to your home, building a seating bench with storage is an excellent option.
Determining the Size and Design of the Bench
Before you start building the bench, it’s important to determine how large and what design you want your seating bench with storage to be. Consider how many people you want the bench to accommodate, as well as its intended purpose (i.e., outdoor seating, mudroom storage).
Once you have these specifications in mind, it’s time to decide on a design for your bench. You can choose from a variety of styles including classic, modern, or rustic depending on the overall look you’re going for and the available space.
Additionally, if you plan to use cushions or pillows on top of your seating bench with storage, make sure to measure and select appropriately sized materials.
Finally, don’t forget to factor in any relevant safety considerations such as weight capacity limitations due to flooring type or storage height if using drawers. Once you’ve determined all of the necessary measurements and design elements, it’s time to begin building your seating bench with storage.
Selecting Suitable Materials and Tools
Once you have your design and measurements figured out, it’s time to select the materials and tools necessary to build the seating bench with storage. Consider the type of wood or other materials that will best fit within your budget and chosen design.
For instance, if you want a classic look, pine or cedar are both great options. However, if a contemporary style is more your preference then consider materials such as birch, maple, or oak.
Additionally, think about what additional items may be needed to complete the project such as screws, nails, hinges for drawers/doors, bolts/nuts for any legs/brackets attached to the bench frame. In addition to these supplies, make sure to gather all necessary power tools such as saws (hand saws or miter saws) and drills (electric or cordless).
Finally, don’t forget safety gear like protective eyewear and gloves. With all of these items in hand you’re ready to begin building your beautiful seating bench with storage!
Gathering the Necessary Measurements and Supplies
Before you can begin constructing the seating bench, it is essential to gather all of the necessary measurements and supplies. This includes measuring the desired length, width, and height of the bench, as well as acquiring the necessary tools and materials.
Tools:
- Circular saw with a miter box
- Table saw (optional)
- Drill with drill bits
- Hammer and nails/screws
- Level or straight edge
- Tape measure
Materials:
- 2×4 lumber
- Plywood or particleboard
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper (for a smoother finish)
- Stain/paint of your choice
- Hinges and latch (optional) for the storage compartment lid
Once all of these measurements and supplies are gathered, you can begin constructing the seating bench. Start by measuring the pieces of lumber and cutting them to size.
You may need to use a miter box and circular saw for some of the angles, or a table saw for more precise measurements. Connect the pieces of lumber together with screws, nails, and wood glue to create the frame.
10 Steps How to Build a Seating Bench with Storage
Step 1: Gather Materials and Tools:
Before starting the construction process, gather all the necessary materials and tools. This includes plywood or lumber for the frame, backrest, and seat, screws or nails, a saw, a drill or screwdriver, a measuring tape, sandpaper, and paint or stain for finishing. Ensure that you have all the required materials and tools readily available to streamline the building process.
Step 2: Design and Measure:
Decide on the dimensions and design of your seating bench with storage. Consider the available space and the intended use of the bench. Measure and mark the dimensions on the plywood or lumber, ensuring accuracy for a precise fit. Use a straightedge and a measuring tape to ensure straight and square cuts.
Step 3: Cut the Pieces:
Using a saw, carefully cut the plywood or lumber according to the measurements. This will include cutting the pieces for the frame, backrest, seat, and storage compartments. Take your time and use appropriate safety measures when operating the saw.
Step 4: Assemble the Frame:
Begin by assembling the frame of the bench. Place the side panels vertically and attach the top and bottom panels horizontally using screws or nails. Ensure that the corners are square and the panels are securely attached. This frame will serve as the base for the seating bench.
Step 5: Build the Backrest:
Attach the backrest panel to the frame using screws or nails. Ensure that it is centered and securely fastened. The backrest can be either straight or angled, depending on your preference and comfort.
Step 6: Create the Storage Compartments:
Measure and mark the desired locations for the storage compartments within the bench frame. Cut the necessary pieces for the storage compartments and attach them securely using screws or nails. Consider adding hinges and a lid to allow easy access to the storage space.
Step 7: Build the Seat:
Cut the seat panel to the desired size and attach it to the top of the bench frame. Ensure that it is centered and securely fastened. The seat panel can be either solid or slatted, depending on your design preference.
Step 8: Sand and Finish:
Once the basic construction is complete, sand all the surfaces of the bench to smooth out any rough edges or imperfections. Pay extra attention to the seat and backrest areas for comfortable seating. Apply paint or stain to enhance the appearance and protect the wood. Allow sufficient drying time according to the product instructions.
Step 9: Add Cushions and Upholstery (Optional):
To enhance the comfort and aesthetics of your seating bench, consider adding cushions and upholstery. Measure and cut foam or cushion inserts to fit the seat and backrest areas. Choose fabric that complements your décor and carefully upholster the cushions, attaching them securely to the bench.
Step 10: Install Hardware and Final Touches:
Install any desired hardware, such as drawer pulls or handles, to the storage compartments. Ensure that they are securely attached. Perform a final inspection, checking for any loose screws or nails, and make any necessary adjustments. Clean the bench thoroughly, removing any sawdust or debris.
Things to Consider When Building a Seating Bench with Storage
When it comes to building a seating bench with storage, there are a few things to consider. First, think about the size of your space. Measure the area you will be working with so that you can create a bench that is the right size for your needs. You should also consider how much storage you need, as well as what materials you will use to construct your bench.
Another important factor to consider when building a seating bench with storage is the style of the piece. Consider whether or not you want to match the rest of your decor, or if you prefer something more contemporary and modern. Additionally, think about colors and textures of fabrics that may be used on cushions and other accents that will make up this piece of furniture.
Finally, take into account any potential safety issues when constructing your seating bench with storage. Make sure all nails are securely in place and that all the pieces are properly aligned.
Conclusion
Congratulations on completing this project on how to build a seating bench with storage! Having your own built-in storage seating bench can be a great addition to any room; from bedrooms to living rooms.
Not only will it provide comfortable seating, but it’s also useful for storing anything you usually need. This tutorial has gone over all the steps required to create an eye-catching and functional seating bench with drawers.
So grab your tools, find the right spot in your home, and get building! If you’re looking for more storage solutions, be sure to check out our other helpful how-to articles. Thank you for joining us today and we hope that this article helps you build the perfect seating bench with storage of your dreams. Good luck and have fun!
