This project was built and designed by Alex from Bevelish Creations. It turns an unused IKEA standing mirror into a sleek shoe bench and hallway console using custom woodworking techniques and clever problem-solving.
Driven by tight space constraints and a desire to repurpose unused materials, Alex designed a piece that combines practical storage with clean modern aesthetics. The result is a functional and eye-catching entryway solution built from both old parts and new craftsmanship.
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Repurposing the IKEA Mirror into a Hallway Console
The project began with an IKEA mirror that had sat unused since Alex moved into a new house. Instead of letting it go to waste, he decided to design a new home for it—anchored to a custom hallway console that could double as a shoe bench.
Initial digital sketches didn’t excite him, but once the physical build began, the idea came together in a way that exceeded expectations. Constraints on space and proportions pushed the design in a creative direction that ultimately worked better than planned.
Constructing the Case with an Angled Partition
The most notable design feature of the case is its angled center partition. This 45-degree element breaks up the symmetry of the case and adds strength to the horizontal shelves and vertical dividers.
Alex began by assembling the partition and horizontal shelving as a single unit to ensure clean alignment. The components were made from plywood with solid hardwood strips applied to conceal the edges for a more finished appearance.
To pull off the compound miters required for the angled partition, careful cuts were made using a combination of table saw settings and layout tools. The joints were reinforced with dominoes before being glued and clamped.
Installing Stop Dados for Vertical Support
Next, Alex turned to the left-side panel and bottom case piece. Both received stop dados to house the vertical partitions, which helped maintain structure and allowed for strong glue joints.
Dry fitting played a major role throughout this process. Each piece was checked before glue-up to catch minor issues and allow for fine-tuning. Clamping squares were used during dry fits to keep the panels aligned and square during assembly.
One hiccup came when a dado for the lower shelf was forgotten before gluing in the partition. Thankfully, Alex was able to get a trim router into the tight space and cut the dado after the fact—a good reminder to double-check your cut list.
Designing Asymmetrical, Tapered Legs
The stand’s legs are intentionally asymmetrical, with different lengths on either side to accommodate the console’s angled design. The shorter legs were built first using a 10-degree angled cut to set the stance.
To add visual lightness, the legs were tapered—wider at the top and narrowing toward the bottom. Alex used a crosscut sled for the smaller legs and a tapering jig for the longer set, ensuring precision and safety.
Each leg assembly was cut, shaped, and test-fitted before final sanding and joinery. The asymmetry was handled thoughtfully, making the piece look balanced even with its unconventional angles.
Using Cleats and Bolts for Leg Attachment
Because the console case didn’t allow for a traditional brace between the legs, Alex built cleats with dados to hold each leg securely. These cleats were then bolted into the bottom of the case using threaded inserts for a removable, solid connection.
To get the cleats to fit flush against the tapered legs, small angle adjustments were made using a digital angle gauge. The cleats were also reinforced with dowels, adding long-term strength and stability.
Building a Custom Frame for the Mirror
To match the look of the walnut legs and trim, Alex built a new walnut frame for the mirror. This involved cutting a rabbet along the inside of the frame stock to allow the mirror to sit flush within the frame.
The corners were joined with 45-degree miters, and the fit was tested repeatedly before gluing. Construction adhesive was used to secure the mirror into the frame, eliminating the need for brackets or exposed fasteners on the front face.
Mounting the Mirror to the Console
Because there was no back panel on the case, typical mirror hangers wouldn’t work. Instead, Alex used L-brackets, attaching them to the mirror frame’s bottom and side edges, then screwing them into the body of the console.
This mounting method was strong, discreet, and made the mirror feel like a seamless part of the piece. It also provided enough rigidity to keep everything square and stable during use.
Finishing the Console and Final Assembly
Once all parts were sanded and smoothed, Alex applied a finish that brought out the rich color of the walnut and enhanced the grain in the plywood and trim. After curing, the leg assemblies were bolted into place and the mirror was mounted.
The completed hallway console is compact enough to fit in tight entryways but substantial enough to serve as seating and storage. It combines clean design with thoughtful joinery, all while giving new life to a forgotten piece.
Learn more about this project here: https://www.bevelishcreations.com/projects/entryway-console/.