Shoe Bench Front with Hidden Storage at Back
This bench is a shoe bench on the front... and hides a compartment in the back for boots or storage! This creates a generous bench seat, but shallow shoe storage (so shoes don't get lost in the back), and lots of hidden (but accessible) storage in the back. Step by step plans with video tutorial from RELATED: Board and Batten Wall Panel
Specifications
| Project type | Bench |
|---|---|
| Room | Storage Solutions |
| Style | Cottage Style Furniture Plans |
| Difficulty | Beginner Projects |
| Estimated cost | $20 - $50 |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 22 feet of 1x12 boards
- 2 - 1x3 @ 8 feet long
- 17-1/4" x 72" back (1/4" plywood or similar)
Cut List
- 1 - 1x12 @ 72" (bench top)
- 2 - 1x12 @ 16-1/2" (bench sides)
- 1 - 1x12 @ 70-1/2" (bench bottom)
- 2 - 1x12 @ 13-1/4" (dividers)
- 2 - 1x12 @ 21" (shelves)
- 2 - 1x3 @ 70-1/2" (bottom supports)
- 1/4" plywood for back is 17-1/4" x 72"
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- hearing protection
- kreg-jig
- drill
- circular saw
- nailer
- sander
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1
After cutting all the boards, we built this bench by first attaching the legs to the top shelf and the bottom shelf. These are the main structural joints, so we used 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws. Since we knew this bench would be covered on both sides by walls, we placed the pocket holes on the outsides of the sides. For the dividers, we just nailed and glued those in place with 1-1/4" nails.
Step 2
Then we added the 1x3 supports along the bottom with nails and glue.
Step 3
Next we added the shelves. We opted for pocket holes on the underside for added strength here.
Step 4
Finally we nailed the back on with glue and 3/4" nails.
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.
Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/shoe-bench-front-hidden-storage-back