This project is by Ale from Ale’s Everyday, who designed a practical and stylish indoor/outdoor storage bench. If you need a way to keep outdoor spaces tidy while adding extra seating, this build is a great solution.
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Why Build a DIY Storage Bench?
A storage bench is a versatile piece of furniture that combines seating with hidden storage. It’s perfect for stashing away outdoor cushions, toys, or gardening supplies while keeping your space organized.
Inspired by the discontinued IKEA Applaro bench, this DIY version offers a similar design with more flexibility in materials and customization. With the right wood and finish, it can be built for either indoor or outdoor use.
How Ale Built the Storage Bench
Ale designed this bench as a simple box with a hinged lid, making it both functional and easy to construct. The key to durability was choosing a hardwood that can withstand outdoor conditions, ensuring the bench remains sturdy over time.
Building the Lid
To create the lid, Ale used wooden slats and reinforced them with dowels for added strength. Each slat had two evenly spaced holes drilled into the center, allowing the dowels to hold everything securely together.
Taking extra care during this step helped ensure a precise fit. Aligning the pieces before applying glue was important for creating a smooth, even surface.
Assembling the Sides
Once the lid was completed, Ale moved on to the bench’s side panels. These were built using a similar dowel joinery method but required only one dowel per slat since they didn’t bear as much weight.
By dry fitting the pieces before gluing, Ale ensured that everything lined up properly. This step helped prevent gaps and kept the structure solid during assembly.
Final Assembly and Structural Reinforcement
With the sides and lid ready, Ale carefully assembled the bench by fitting all the dowels into place. Clamps were used to hold the structure square while the glue dried, preventing any misalignment.
For additional stability, Ale reinforced key joints, making sure the bench would hold up well over time. Attention to detail during this phase helped achieve a strong and professional-quality build.
Sanding and Applying the Finish
After the glue dried, the entire bench was sanded to remove any rough edges and prepare it for finishing. A smooth surface not only enhances the look but also makes the bench more comfortable to use.
For a final touch, Ale applied a rich espresso stain to bring out the wood grain and add a warm, rustic feel. However, this project allows for creative finishing options, so the color and style can be customized to match any space.
Protecting the Bench for Outdoor Use
If used outdoors, a protective sealant is essential for longevity. Ale applied a weather-resistant finish to protect the wood from moisture and sun exposure, ensuring the bench remains in great condition for years.
A Functional and Stylish Storage Solution
The finished storage bench provided both extra seating and hidden storage, making it a valuable addition to any home. Its clean design and solid construction made it a great alternative to store-bought options.
For a full walkthrough of the build, including detailed techniques and finishing tips, check out Ale’s video. Watching the project in action will help ensure a smooth and successful build.