A few weeks ago I shared with you our newly built bench and shelf for our back entryway. Today I thought I’d share a little more detail that went into the making of this system. First, as I mentioned in my original post, here, I got the original plans for this system from Ana White. I used these plans, but then tweaked them a bit for our space. I needed to make my bench a little shorter because of space constraints. I also chose to make one of the cubbies a little smaller.
I was afraid that if I made them all the same size, that I wouldn’t have enough room for the items I was planning on storing here. So I made two of the cubbies the same spacing that Ana recommended, but then made the middle one quite a bit smaller. This space is perfect for the dogs leashes and extra collars.
I chose to make my bench and shelf out of select pine. Because I planned on painting them white, I knew I could afford to use a less expensive wood. Also, to be honest, since I hadn’t built a lot of furniture, it seemed foolish to me to spend a lot on wood. I mean, what if it hadn’t turned out? Thankfully, that wasn’t the case, and I love the result. And because it’s painted, no one can tell I used a less expensive wood.
I also made the shelf shorter than the original plans.
This time I kept the cubbies uniform in size. This plan worked for the way we intended to use them. Plus, I liked the way it looked this way.
I think most of my baskets were from Target, although one might have come from Lowes. I actually built the bench last spring, before my daughter’s graduation open house, so I don’t remember exactly where those baskets came from.
I love the added storage we have with this new system. And the white paint really helps brighten up this windowless room.
I found this to be a fairly easy project that resulted in bringing organization and cheer to this much used room. The total cost of making this system? Less than $100. Definitely money well spent. Tomorrow I will share with you another new addition to this back entryway. You’re gonna love it! 
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I absolutely *love* that bench! Adorable and functional…what else could a girl want? (c: Genius idea!
Wow! I’m amazed at how profession that looks!