Creating A Cozy Bedroom Nook With A Window-Side Bench

Adding a bench nook under a bedroom window is a great way to create a cosy reading nook or additional storage space. This DIY project can be challenging but rewarding, and can even increase the value of your home. The first step is to measure the space where the bench will be installed, ensuring that you choose a comfortable height. You will then need to cut your chosen wood to size, taking into account any necessary angles. The frame can then be built and secured to the wall, before adding any finishing touches such as paint or trim.

Measure the area and cut your wood to size

Building a bench nook under a bedroom window is a challenging but rewarding project. To ensure a perfect fit, it is crucial to carefully measure the area and cut the wood to size. Here is a detailed guide to help you through this process:

Firstly, measure the space where you plan to install your bench. Consider the desired height of the bench, ensuring comfort and functionality. Once you have these measurements, cut your 2x4s to size. A miter saw or a hand saw can be used for this step, depending on your available tools. Remember to account for any baseboards or trim that may affect the placement of the bench.

Next, create vertical holes for your screws using a Kreg jig. This step will provide a sturdy foundation for your bench. If you are attaching the bench to the wall, use screw hooks or anchors for a secure hold. It is essential to ensure that your screws are long enough to provide adequate support without compromising the structure of the wall.

Now, attach the plywood to the front and sides of the bench frame. Measure the front and sides of the frame to cut the plywood to the appropriate size. If you have a baseboard, you can cut the plywood to fit around it, ensuring a seamless finish. Alternatively, you can remove the baseboard and fill any gaps with additional boards.

For a polished look, add trim to the bench. Measure and cut the trim at 45-degree angles to hide the ends of the plywood and give your bench a finished appearance.

Before installing the bench, it is crucial to measure the area again, as walls may not be perfectly straight, and minor adjustments may be necessary. Once you are confident with your measurements, attach the bench to the wall, ensuring it is securely fastened.

Finally, you can add the finishing touches. Sand the plywood and apply paint or stain to achieve your desired aesthetic. Don't forget to add cushions or pillows to make your new bench nook a comfortable and inviting space.

Build the frame

Building a bench nook under a bedroom window can be a challenging but rewarding project. Here is a step-by-step guide to building the frame:

Measure the Space:

Before starting construction, carefully measure the area under the window where the bench nook will be installed. Consider the desired height and length of the bench to ensure a comfortable seating area.

Gather Materials and Tools:

For the frame, you will need 2x4 boards. The number of boards will depend on the size of your project. Ensure you have a Kreg jig, screws, a drill, a saw, a tape measure, a spirit level, a square, and any other necessary tools.

Cut and Assemble the Frame:

Using your measurements, cut the 2x4s to size. A miter saw or hand saw can be used for this step. Assemble the frame by joining the boards together. The vertical supports should be attached to the bottom of the horizontal pieces with screws. Ensure the corners are square, using a square tool to check for 90-degree angles.

Secure the Frame to the Wall:

Attach the frame to the wall using screw hooks or other appropriate fasteners. If your wall is concrete, you may need to use heavy-duty anchors and a hammer drill. Ensure the frame is level and securely fastened before proceeding to the next step.

Add a Top Frame:

Create a mirror image of the bottom frame by adding 2x4s to the top. This will provide additional support and a surface to attach the bench top later.

Optional: Create Drawer Space:

If you plan to include drawers in your bench nook, you will need to add additional vertical supports to the frame for the drawer slides. Measure and space these supports accordingly.

By following these steps, you will have a sturdy frame for your bedroom window bench nook. Remember to take your time, measure twice, and always prioritize safety when using power tools.

Add a board to the wall to close the gap

Adding a board to the wall to close the gap is a crucial step in building a bench nook under a window. This step ensures that the nook is securely attached to the wall and fills any unsightly gaps. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

First, measure the gap between the wall and the bench frame. You will need a board that is slightly larger than this gap. Cut a board to size, using a table saw or a circular saw. Make sure you wear eye and ear protection when cutting the board. Sand the edges of the board to smooth out any rough spots.

Next, you will need to attach the board to the wall. If your wall is made of drywall, you can use screws and drywall anchors. Drill pilot holes in the board and mark the locations of the wall studs. Line up the board with the studs and screw it into place. If your wall is made of concrete, like in the blog post, you will need to use heavy-duty Tapcon concrete anchors and a hammer drill.

Now, it's time to attach the board to the bench frame. You can use wood screws or pocket holes and screws to secure the board. Make sure to countersink the screws so that the heads are below the surface of the board. Fill the screw holes with wood filler and let it dry. Sand the area lightly after it has dried to ensure a smooth finish.

Finally, you can paint or stain the board to match the rest of the nook. If you plan to paint it, use a primer first to ensure that the paint adheres well. Apply several thin coats of paint with a foam roller, sanding lightly between coats. This will give you a smooth, professional finish.

By following these steps, you will have successfully added a board to the wall to close the gap and create a secure and polished-looking bench nook under your bedroom window.

Secure the bench to the wall

Securing your bench to the wall is a crucial step in ensuring the safety and stability of your bedroom window nook. Here is a detailed guide on how to securely attach your bench:

Selecting the Right Fasteners:

The type of fasteners you choose will depend on the material of your wall and whether your bench will be placed indoors or outdoors. If your wall is made of concrete, consider using concrete anchors such as drop-in anchors, sleeve anchors, or wedge anchors. For brick or block walls, you'll need to select the appropriate anchors specifically designed for those surfaces.

If your bench is going to be placed outdoors in a moist environment or an area with chemicals, opt for stainless steel anchors to prevent rust. For indoor settings, standard zinc-plated concrete anchors are typically sufficient.

Attaching the Bench:

Before securing the bench, ensure that you've built a sturdy frame using 2x4s. Measure the area where the bench will be installed, and select a comfortable height. Cut your 2x4s accordingly, and use a Kreg jig to create vertical holes for your screws.

Now, you're ready to attach the bench to the wall. Here are some recommended methods:

• Screw Hooks: If you've left your baseboard on the wall, attach a 3/4-inch thick board onto the wall to close any gaps. Then, use screw hooks to securely fasten the bench frame to the wall.
• Concrete Anchors: If your wall is concrete, use concrete anchors appropriate for your wall type (drop-in, sleeve, or wedge anchors). Drill holes into the wall, insert the anchors, and then attach the bench using bolts or screws.
• Lag Screws: For standard stud walls, consider using lag screws. Drill pilot holes into the studs, and then screw the lag screws through the bench and into the studs.
• Through-Bolts: If you prefer a more heavy-duty option, consider using through-bolts. Drill holes through the bench and the wall studs, insert the bolts, and secure them with washers and nuts.

Final Touches:

Once your bench is securely attached, it's time for the finishing touches. Measure the top of the bench again to ensure everything is level and make any necessary adjustments.

Fill any screw holes with wood filler and let it dry completely. Paint the bench with several coats of paint and sealer for a smooth finish.

If desired, add trim to the wall to hide any remaining gaps and give your nook a polished look.

By following these steps and selecting the appropriate fasteners, you can confidently secure your bench to the wall, creating a safe and inviting bedroom window nook.

Cut and attach plywood to the front and sides

To cut and attach plywood to the front and sides of your bedroom window bench nook, follow these steps:

First, measure the front and sides of your bench frame. Cut the plywood to size, using a table saw or a hand saw. If you have a baseboard, you can cut the plywood to fit around it. Alternatively, you can remove the baseboard before attaching the plywood.

Next, attach the plywood to the frame. Use screws or nails to secure the plywood in place, depending on your preference. If you plan on adding a removable top, you can use hinges instead. Fill in the holes created by the screws with wood filler and let it dry for 2-8 hours, depending on the size and depth of the holes.

Once the wood filler is dry, add trim to the wall to hide any gaps and give the bench a finished look. Cut the trim at 45-degree angles to fit around the edges of the bench. Use white semi-gloss trim paint or polyurethane to finish the trim and give it a cohesive look.

If you want a smoother finish, use an electric sander to sand the plywood before painting. Apply 3-4 coats of paint and 1-2 coats of sealer to the bench. Allow the paint and sealer to dry completely before using the bench.

Frequently asked questions