Tools and Materials

Note

Items may be Special Order in some stores. Product costs, availability, and item numbers may vary online or by market. Paint colors may vary slightly from those shown. Availability varies by market for lumber species and sizes.

Instructions

A pair of kitchen wall cabinets is the basis for this project. You’ll need to remove and replace a section of baseboard trim to install this cabinet. You can cut and replace most of the existing trim around the seat, or purchase matching moulding.

Shop Cabinets Shop Tools Shop Moulding and Trim

Finish Before You Start

A diagram showing how to remove baseboards from a wall.

To remove the baseboard, mark a line 18 inches away from where the bench will be placed. Cut the baseboard with an oscillating multipurpose tool fitted with a wood-cutting blade, and carefully remove the baseboards between the two cuts and the corner using a small pry bar. You can also remove the entire piece of existing baseboard and replace as needed.

Good to Know

To spread the load and protect the wallboard when prying the baseboard off the wall, place a 3/4-inch-thick scrap board under the heel of the pry bar.

Build the Base

A diagram showing how to fasten the bench frame together.

Cut the long base front/back (B) and base dividers (C) to length (refer to the cutting list in the previous steps). Clamp the parts together with the top edges flush, drill countersunk holes, and fasten the parts with 2-inch drywall screws. The frame could also be nailed together with 6d common nails.

Good to Know

When making a base for a project, size the base frame to match the cabinet that will be resting on it. Also match the width of the parts to the height of the base trim you are installing over the base.

A diagram showing how to attach the base to the wall.

Use pieces of tape 18 inches above the floor to mark the locations of wall studs. Position the base against the wall. To avoid distorting the base along uneven walls, insert wood shims between the base and walls over each stud location. Drill countersunk holes and screw the bases to the wall studs with 2 1/2-inch drywall screws. Cut the shims even with the top of the base with a utility knife.

Add the Cabinets and Top

Finish Up

Make It Cozy

Here are a few ideas for decorating your bench once it’s built.

Cushions and pillows create soft surfaces to sit and lean on. Choose from a variety of solid colors to exciting patterns to give the seat the look you want.
A throw blanket is a perfect addition to this cozy corner, offering a combination of comfort and warmth when you want to snuggle up with a good book, a cup of coffee or to just simply relax.
Consider adding a side table where you can rest a drink, a book, a plant, a picture frame or other small décor items.
An area rug can further define this corner bench seat, really allowing it to stand out as its own space while giving your feat a soft landing.
Decorate the walls around the bench with wall art or pretty accents. If you built it in a corner that has a window, add a curtain and a curtain rod with a decorative finial.
A floor lamp could pair nicely with the bench, depending on how much space is available. If you choose to add a side table, a table lamp can make the perfect lighting option.

View more creative bench ideas:

Related Tags:

Home Décor

Built-in Bench Seat from Stock Cabinets