LE INTERIORE

Hidden Storage Bench for Entryways or Bedrooms — Stylish Seating with a Secret

Are you always tripping over shoes and bags in your entryway? Or perhaps your bedroom can use some stealthy storage, provided it doesn't spoil the aesthetic? Then this Hidden Storage Bench DIY is your new best friend. Pretty, practical, and just perfect for the weekend-who wouldn't savor a cozy sitting spot with a secret compartment inside?

Let’s make a bench that can conceal your throw-and-go clutter while bringing in some charm! 

🧱 What You’ll Need:

Materials:

Plywood or MDF board for frame & top (3/4″ thick)

Lumber, 2×2, or 2×4? Internal support

Piano hinge (for the lid)

Wood screws

Wood filler

Paint or stain

Foam cushion + fabric (optional, for a padded top)

Handles or pulls (optional)

Tools:

Circular saw or hand saw

Drill + screwdriver

Measuring tape

Wood glue

Clamps

Staple gun (for upholstery)

Sander or sandpaper

🪚 Step-by-Step Build Guide:

  1. Measure & Cut

Determine the size of your bench. Standard dimensions for an entryway bench are about:

Height: 18–20 inches

Depth: 14–18 inches

Length: 36–48 inches

Cut:

2 side panels (height x depth)

1 back panel (length x height)

1 front panel (length x height)

1 bottom panel (length x depth)

1 top panel (the lid–same size as the bottom)

  1. Assemble the Box Frame

Assemble all components together using screws and wood glue, attaching the side panels to the back and front. Screw in the bottom panel so it’s flush with the bottom edge.

For added stability, add internal support braces using 2x2s.

  1. Attach the Lid

Attach the piano hinge to the rear edge, allowing the lid to come up for seating.

Optional: Put soft-close hinges on, or a support arm to keep it from slamming shut. 

  1. Sand & Fill

Sand all edges smooth. After that, use wood filler to fill in any screw holes. When it dries, sand again for a perfectly smooth finish.

  1. Paint or Stain

Now paint or stain to match the decor-it’s really your choice. For a clean modern look, probably a matte white or charcoal gray. For rustic charm, stain it walnut or espresso.

  1. Optional Upholstered Cushion Top

Do you want to add more comfort? Put a cushion on:

Cut the foam to size

Wrap it with some fabric

Staple the fabric underneath the lid with a staple gun

Boom! Instant comfort and style

💡 Bonus Innovation

Place handles on the side for easy moving

Add small feet or casters so that it is elevated above the ground

Line the inside with felt or fabric for a soft look

Add internal dividers for organizing shoes or toys or linens

🧡 Things That Make This Truly Awesome

Functions as both storage and seating

Ideal for small spaces

Can be customized to match anything in terms of color or style 

Less costly than anything on the market 

An excellent weekend project for any beginner!

🌟 Styling Inspiration:

Room ID Ideas

Entryway White cane-weave panel with shoe organizer within

Bedroom Upholstered in linen or velvet for blanket storage

Kids Room Bright paint to go with soft-close hinges and toy bins

Bohemian       Rasana with rattan panels, mustard cushion, and brass handles