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How to make a dining bench seat?

SarahK1996

Hey legends!

Every DIY I have done since being part of this community has worked amazingly so I would love your help on the next one in our new home we just bought!

We aren’t moved in just yet so I have time to gather ideas and suggestions. Our new dining area is just screaming at me for a banquette dining seat along the wall (like an L shape). I was getting quotes for cabinet makers but it’s so expensive so I think I could potentially DIY now that I’m getting more confident. I don’t have exact measurements as of yet but once I do I will post here. I will attach photos of the current dining area and also my inspo!

I even was thinking to make life easier potentially using toy box benches for storage or clever cubes for the base with MDF covering the openings and then grabbing some specrite for the top of the bench. Then was going to grab some foam and create my own cushioning. But I wasn’t sure if just having the toy boxes on the ground will be okay with weight of multiple people etc? Please help me! I have seen a couple DIYers on here use different types of flat packs etc. but wanting to know exactly how to do it. Also, would love to include the curving but if it’s really complex happy to not do it!

Would love your thoughts on some hacks/easiest ways for a DIYer to do this project successfully!

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EricL

Hello @SarahK1996

After a bit of thinking, I propose building a classic square box "L" seat with timber moulding to create accents or using castellated cover sheets at the bottom. I propose leaving space at the footing about 50mm and adding LED lighting to enhance its evening appeal. I recommend using standard Specrite 2200 x 600 x 26mm Timber Multi Use Pine Panel for seating and building a high back seat with a shelf at the top. You can make your own seat cushions for the build.

Let me call on our experienced members @AlanM52, @Nailbag, @Remarka6le and @Noyade for their recommendations.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

SarahK1996

Hi Eric!

Okay amazing, so you think it would be best to just make it from scratch as opposed to using a 'flatpack' style kaboodle or ikea cabinets? I think it probably would be cheaper the way you say anyway, but it is just having all the tools! Love the idea of the LED lighting though! If I were to call upon a trade for the base, do you think just a carpenter? As I know that changes to policy for timber cuts has changed is that correct?

MitchellMc

Nothing like adding a few more tools @SarahK1996! It could just about be all done with a drill driver, circular saw and jigsaw. A carpenter could do the work, but I'm pretty confident that you could too. I've created a couple of renderings below to help. It looks a bit complicated, but it's all really just a matter of taking your time and cutting timber to the correct length.

Mitchell

SarahK1996

Well I do have all those things!! Even more so better that you have given me confidence legend! I'll have to give it a go, and then nail gun as well? Those renderings are unreal! EXACTLY WHAT I WANT!!!!

MitchellMc

Yes, a nail gun would work, but you can also screw everything together, @SarahK1996. You're doing an amazing job, and I think a more challenging project like this is well within your skill set.

Mitchell

SarahK1996

You rock! Well,. I may be back here for some help with measurements once I get the space measured up right if that's okay!

MitchellMc

Shout out anytime you need a hand; we're here to help.

On the cutting, you're correct that at stores, they'll typically cut timber to fit the length in your vehicle. For this type of project, I feel it would probably be best to take home as long lengths as possible and cut the timber up as needed. For the frame, I wouldn't get too caught up in the measurements. Have some rough ones ready, but then go with the flow. This looks about right here, this place looks like it could use another support there, etc. No one is going to see the frame once it's all enclosed, so it doesn't actually matter what it looks like as long as it's solid and is the shape you're going for.

Mitchell

SarahK1996

Okay amazing! Thanks Mitch! Im sure I’ll be back with questions!

JacobZ

Hi @SarahK1996,

It'd be amazing if you could work in some recycled materials, and that looks perfect for the backrest or top of your bench seat.

As it is chipboard, it would be best to use something more solid, like some framing pine for the weight bearing structure, but I reckon it would be perfect as the seat top or the backrest.

You could then attach some plywood over the top and add your cushions.

Let me know what you think, and please reach out whenever you need help.

Jacob

SarahK1996

Thanks Jacob!

Appreciate your help so much! Sounds perfect. Might be a bigger DIY this time but will take my time for sure!

Thankyou so much!

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