Modern Cottage Mudroom

Step 1

Build the box. This is the basic frame for the upper shelf. It will be fully framed, so nailgun lovers, nail away. I used Kreg Jig pocket holes, but you can also use 2" screws or nails - just adjust for square and use glue.

Step 2

On your shelf, nail the tops and bottom on. One thing I don't like about my shelf is the bottom trim makes pulling baskets straight out impossible - there's a little lip. This could be a good thing for you, I'll let you make the call.

Step 3

Trim exposed shelf dividers as shown above.

Step 4

And tack on some moulding for an added touch of fancy.

Step 5

Step 6

Just the top gets trim. Attach to all dividers for added structure and support.

Step 7

Now trim legs too.

Step 8

Followed by a touch of decorative edge moulding.

Step 9

Carefully draw out pattern as shown above. Cut with a jigsaw and sand rough edge. Make sure your two match. We actually clamped the two together and cut to ensure a perfect match. Drill pocket holes along the top and bottom edge for assembly.

Step 10

Start assembling from the bottom up, installing bench and then dividers and then finally the top. Attach dividers to bench and shelf through pocket holes. For a freestanding mudroom, you can add end dividers but you MUST support that top shelf by hanging it to studs in the wall (see next step).

Step 11

Make sure your upper shelf is well supported, screwed to at least two studs in the wall at minimum, on each end. If you used a freestanding design (no side walls) you MUST add blocking as shown above and screw through the blocking. Attach the hook blocking as well. I used pocket holes to attach, and also nails and glue into the wall.

Step 12

And this is just to add a few more hooks. And a little more fancy.

Step 13

And this is not in the cut list, but with just 1 more 1x3, you could trim out the bench top as I did. Just in case your bench doesn't sit flush to the wall, or for a little extra color.

Finishing

Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.