One of the main difficulties in our new house is the shortage of storage space. There isn’t a closet near the front entrance to contain shoes and other belongings, so we are finding ways to create plenty of practical storage!
I teamed up with Kreg Tools and their project-plan website, dopten.com, to build a straightforward upholstered storage bench that fits wonderfully in our entryway.
Now that we have this storage bench along with our fantastic mudroom storage lockers, we have addressed a major storage issue in our home. Isn’t an organized house wonderful?
Ways to Use the Upholstered Bench
Our storage bench is being used in the entryway. It should provide space for the shoes that are constantly creating clutter, as well as umbrellas, work gloves, and other items!
However, this bench’s uncomplicated design makes it suitable for countless purposes! No matter how you use it, the spacious storage compartment will be a favorite feature.
I thought I would share several different spots where this storage bench could work well in your home:
- Coffee table: the compartment inside would be great for storing spare throw pillows, blankets, and more.
- Window seat: position it beneath a window in your children’s room to create a comfortable reading spot with toy storage inside.
- Game bench: keep your favorite board games in a playroom, then use the bench as seating around a game table or even as a surface for playing.
- Bedroom bench: set it at the end of your bed for convenient seating and storage for linens and blankets, or use it to hold decorative pillows overnight.
- Storage chest: place it in any room corner that could use additional seating or storage.
A Bench That’s Simple to Build
The bench has a basic construction, though I especially like the subtle detail of the raised sides. Combined with the upholstered top, this creates an attractive silhouette.
You can make this bench from nearly any type of wood. Reclaimed lumber would look especially lovely with its clean, uncomplicated style.
Because I didn’t have reclaimed lumber available, I built my bench using affordable, though not flawless, 2×2 and 1×4 furring strips. I then treated it with an aged wood accelerator to create the appearance of reclaimed timber.
Best of all, the bench wood, excluding the plywood because I used a leftover piece, totaled under $30.
Easy Upholstery
If furniture upholstery is new to you, there’s no need to be concerned—the upholstery for this bench is incredibly easy!
The most important step in any upholstery project is beginning with high-density foam (this is the foam I used for this bench). This helps it withstand regular use. Next, cover it with quilt batting, which will cushion the foam and wooden edges.
For the bench top, I chose faux leather left over from last year’s Halloween costumes. It gives the bench a polished appearance and wipes clean easily, making it an excellent option for homes with children!
I use a basic stapler to fasten the fabric and batting around the plywood top. There’s no need for specialized upholstery equipment!
Because the top is simply rectangular, covering it is much like wrapping a gift. It’s an ideal upholstery project for someone just starting out.
Additional Storage Inspiration
Designing attractive storage solutions for our home brings me so much joy. Practical pieces truly make me happy.
Take a look at these other excellent storage projects:
Woodworking Plans for a Storage Bench
When you are ready to bring extra storage into your home, I am offering the plans free of charge at ondopten.com.
Click here to view the full construction plans.
Looking for a bench without built-in storage? This straightforward DIY X-leg bench is one of my favorites.
Enjoy building!
