DIY built-in bench

Built-In Benches are a great way to utilize those small corners that are to tight and awkward for chairs. The concept is simple but the execution can be frustrating! I learned from a trial and error on my own built-in bench before putting a few together for clients. 

Here are a few things that you need:

• 2x4 Studs (for frame of bench)

• ¼” Plywood (to finish outside of bench)

• ¾” Plywood (for bench top)

• Baseboard

• Primer & Paint

• 4ft Level

• Wood Shims

The first thing that you want to do is construct the structure out of the 2x4 studs. My approach is similar to how you would construct a wall—have a top plate and bottom plate (horizontal pieces) and then install vertical supports every 12-16”. To join the pieces you can either use screws or nails. If you want an “L” shaped bench, leave the sections separate until putting them into their final spot. 

The next step is to cover the outsides of you structure with the ¼” plywood (note: if you want everything on the inside finished as well then when constructing the frame use 2x4’s instead of 2x2’s to allow for more space inside). 

 THE CORNERS

You can approach this a couple of ways. If you want more of a cabinet look, the best way would be to miter the corners at a 45 degree angle so that you do not see the plywood edge. This can get tricky though with ¼” plywood so you might want to switch to a ½” instead. What I like to do to save myself the hassle of 45 degree miter cuts on large pieces of plywood is to just use trim to conceal the corners instead! It also adds some depth and dimension the the base as well.

For the top a typical seating depth is between 16-18”, but if you want to add cushions or pillows I pull it out to 20”. But the fun thing about built-ins is that they are custom, so do whatever you want!

The first bench we did was in such an awkward corner that I made the depth of one side really deep so that it would join the other side and still allow for everyone to sit comfortably around our circle table. Do what makes sense for your space and how you are going to use it. 

If you want to utilize the empty space beneath, install a piano hinge!  Keep the top disconnected from the base until everything is put in place.

INSTALLING THE BENCH

Ok, here is where the level and shims come in. Similar to how you would install cabinetry, place the bench where you want it and most likely your floor is out of level, so things will not line up where they are supposed to…. no worries, place the level on the top and use the shims under the frame until the level is where you want it. Pre-drill some holes through the stud framing where you want to anchor it to the wall. Then move the bench back and add drywall anchors if needed. Move it back into place, check the shims, level and attach the frame to the wall!

Now that the frame is in and level attach the top to the frame and if the wall is not straight a few hacks

• Add a quarter round from the wall to the bench top to hide any gaps

• If the gaps are not too big, just caulk and paint

Now it’s time to install the baseboard around the bottom. If you did a shaker style frame and don’t want to add a baseboard on top of that then just use quarter round. This will make it feel more seamless and connected to the baseboard, and give it more of a built-in look than just placing a bench in the corner. 

At the end, caulk and paint cover a multitude of sins. Fill in any nail holes, dings or cracks and gaps with caulk and then paint over it. It’s amazing when your trim is not lining up right on the corner or your base trim looks like swiss cheese cause you got a little overzealous with the nail gun. You fill it in and paint it and the world will never know!

Ok so you have a Built-In Bench! Now go grab some pillows from Home Goods and invite someone over for brunch!