This project was built and designed by Nick Starrett of Nick’s Custom Woodworks. It’s a smart way to combine a classic outdoor planter with hidden storage that keeps your gardening tools tucked neatly out of sight.
Perfect for patios, porches, or backyard gardens, the design is clean, functional, and achievable in just a day. If you enjoy practical woodworking builds with a clever twist, this one’s worth checking out.
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Why Cedar Makes Sense
Cedar is a go-to material for outdoor furniture thanks to its natural resistance to moisture and bugs. It’s also easy to work with and gives off a great aroma while cutting and sanding.
This planter benefits from those qualities, offering durability and weather protection without the need for heavy-duty finishes. Over time, cedar weathers gracefully, adding to the planter’s rustic appeal.
Starting the Build
Nick begins by cutting down cedar boards to size. The sides of the planter are roughly 30 inches long, with shorter end panels measuring about 10.5 inches.
Each side is built by stacking seven cedar boards on edge, separated by small spacers. This method provides visual interest and gives the planter its signature profile.
Strengthening the Structure
Once the side panels are laid out, internal supports are added to strengthen the box. These are positioned upside down during assembly to avoid visible hardware on the exterior.
Pre-drilling and countersinking the screw holes prevents wood splitting and gives a clean look. The entire assembly comes together quickly with basic tools like a drill and brad nailer.
Building the Hidden Storage
One front panel is left partially unsecured to create a hidden door. Only the top two boards are fastened to the frame so the rest can swing open.
Using a folding saw, Nick carefully cuts the panel free to form the door. This allows easy access to the hidden storage compartment built into the bottom of the planter.
Adding the Storage Shelf
To make the most of the hidden space, a bottom shelf is added inside the base. This shelf holds gardening tools, gloves, or even small bags of soil or fertilizer.
With the shelf installed, Nick drops in a plastic tray that will hold the plants and soil. This tray can be removed for cleaning or replaced over time.
Assembling the Top Border
The top border of the planter is cut to size and glued into place. Brad nails are used to hold it securely without leaving visible holes.
This final trim adds a finished look to the planter and keeps the plastic tray seated correctly. It also ties the design together with clean lines and tight joints.
Finishing and Detail Work
After the build is complete, Nick sands the entire planter to remove rough edges. Sanding also preps the wood for stain and sealer application.
He applies an outdoor-grade stain and clear sealer to protect the cedar and bring out the grain. Allowing it to cure for 24 hours helps ensure a long-lasting finish.
Securing the Hidden Door
To keep the hidden door closed when not in use, small magnets are added inside the frame. These provide just enough tension to hold the panel in place without visible latches.
The result is a clean, functional feature that doesn’t give away the fact that storage is hidden inside. It’s a small touch that adds big value.
A Great Outdoor Project
This planter is more than just a container for flowers or vegetables. It’s a thoughtfully designed piece that adds charm and usefulness to any outdoor space.
With its hidden compartment and sleek cedar finish, it blends design and function seamlessly. It also offers a fun challenge for woodworkers who like a little problem-solving in their builds.
Want to See the Full Build?
Please support Nick by visiting his website here: https://www.nickscustomwoodworks.com/.