How to Build a Plan for a Bench and Shoe Cubby

Benches are often used on enclosed porches, mud rooms, and foyers to provide a place to remove and put on footwear. You may choose to design a plan for a bench that serves a dual purpose, entryway seating and an organizational space for your shoes. A bench in general is a rectangular box. You can adapt the basic bench to include an open front with a series of divisions where the shoes and other footwear can be placed. Final design considerations such as choice of trim molding and wood finish will complete the plans.

Instructions

1. Measure the dimensions of the room, using a tape measure, to determine an appropriate size for the bench. The length and width of the bench are both variables that you can adapt to suit your needs. On average, the height of the bench should be 18 inches, as this is the standard height of seating.

2. Write down the measurements onto a piece of paper. Draw a rectangular box. The bench should consist of sides, back, bottom and seat. Mark the dimensions of each part as a reference on the plan. The sides are placed between the top and bottom, and the back covers the ends of the sides. The front edges of the assembly are covered with a wood trim.

3. Calculate how many divisions you would like for the cubbies underneath the seat based on the length of the bench. The divisions will be the same size at the sides and fit between the top and bottom in the same manner. They are located between the sides. An average pair of adult shoes will take up approximately 12 inches side-by-side. Take the size of shoes into consideration when designing the size and number of divisions. Sketch the divisions into the rectangular bench drawing and note the spacing and dimensions of each cubby division.

4. Select a trim for around the exterior front opening of the bench and shoe cubby design based on the existing trim in the room. Draw the trim into the bench and shoe cubby design and include the dimensions required to trim around the seat, sides and bottom on the front side. This will add decorative detail and integrate the style of the bench with the rest of the room.

5. Pick a wood finish and color for the bench and shoe cubby design. Write down the selection or attach a paint chip to the paper for later reference.

6. Select a seat cushion for the top of the seat. Include a fabric swatch or picture of the cushion with the plan as a point of reference.

Tips & Warnings

• Provide alternative options for paint color and seat cushion fabric in case you are unable to get an exact match when the bench and cubby is actually constructed.

• Double check your room measurements prior to starting the construction process.

References

• Outdoor Life: Boot Bench
• Workbench Magazine: Backdoor Boot Bench

Resources

• Popular Mechanics: How to Build a Wooden Storage Bench