Build a DIY Entryway Bench: Stylish and Practical
Looking for a simple way to upgrade your entryway? A DIY bench is the perfect solution. Itās functional, customizable, and adds a touch of style to an otherwise awkward or underutilized space. This guide walks you through how to build a sleek, modern DIY entryway bench using leftover wood and basic tools.
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Why Build an Entryway Bench?
Does anyone else have an awkward area you have no idea how to fill? For us, itās the dead space walkway right as you enter our front door. Great. Not the very back guest room where few people ever go, itās the glaringly obvious spot when you enter our humble abode and walk right into the back of a couch.
Because of the layout of our living room, itās kind of unavoidable to have the couch where it is. It really does look good and fit well in every way except for the weird entryway area it creates.
Luckily for us, we recently had a free day and hadnāt done a project in a while so whipped up this quick and easy entryway bench.
It was actually a pretty fun idea ā we wrote out a list of quick projects that we already had the materials for or could fashion out of scrapwood and put them on little pieces of paper in a mason jar, then picked out this little bench as our project of the day!
For us it was completely free because we had the wood leftover from our outdoor table, and we already had the paint and stain.
A DIY entryway bench isnāt just about filling an empty space; itās a functional and stylish addition to your home. It offers a convenient spot to sit while putting on shoes and adds a welcoming touch to your entryway. Best of all, this project can be completed in just a few hours with minimal costs.
DIY Entryway Bench Tools & Materials
Wood:
- 1 piece of 2×10 (48 inches long) for the seat
- 4 pieces of 2×4 (15 3/4 inches) for the outer legs
- 2 pieces of 2×4 (8.5 inches) for the lower leg supports
- 2 pieces of 2×4 (3.5 inches) for the upper leg connectors
Hardware:
- 2-inch wood screws
- Pocket hole screws (optional)
Finishing Supplies:
- Paint or stain (we used Behr Dark Secret for the legs and Early American stain for the seat)
- Polycrylic for sealing
Tools:
- Miter saw
- Drill
- Pocket hole jig (optional)
- Sandpaper or sander
Step-by-Step Instructions
Measure and Cut the Wood
Use a miter saw to cut all wood pieces to the dimensions listed above. For the leg components, make 10-degree angle cuts at each end. This gives the bench a clean, modern look while ensuring stability.
Assemble the Leg Frames
Lay out the longer 15 3/4-inch pieces parallel to each other. Place the 3.5-inch piece at the top and the 8.5-inch piece at the bottom, aligning the angled cuts. Use screws to secure the pieces together, or use a pocket hole jig for a cleaner finish.
Paint or Stain the Pieces
Before attaching the legs to the seat, apply your desired finish. Painting or staining the pieces individually ensures even coverage and avoids messes. Allow the finish to dry completely.
Attach the Legs to the Seat
Flip the 2×10 seat upside down and position the leg frames six inches from each end. Secure the frames by driving screws through the top of the leg pieces into the underside of the seat. Double-check that your screws are the right length to avoid puncturing the seatās surface.
Seal the Wood
Apply a coat of polycrylic to protect your bench and make it easier to clean. Let the sealant dry according to the manufacturerās instructions before moving the bench into place. Youāve probably only invested a couple of hours at this point and now have some furniture that looks like it took wayyy longer.
DIY Entryway Bench FAQs
What type of wood works best for this bench?
Pine is an affordable option, but hardwoods like oak or maple are more durable and long-lasting.
Do I need a pocket hole jig?
No, but itās helpful for creating clean, professional-looking joints. If you donāt have one, you can still assemble the bench using standard screws.
How much time will this project take?
With the right tools and preparation, you can complete this bench in 2-3 hours.
Can I customize the size?
Absolutely! Adjust the dimensions to suit your space and needs. Just ensure the proportions stay balanced for stability.
What’s the weight capacity?
Properly built, this bench supports 300+ pounds.
Customization Ideas
- Add a cushioned top
- Paint two-tone design
- Add decorative brackets
This DIY entryway bench is proof that simple projects can have a big impact. Whether you use it for seating, storage, or decor, this bench is a versatile addition to any home. Plus, building it yourself means you can tailor the design to perfectly match your style.
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