How to create a compact cloakroom storage solution

Cutting list

From 1200mm x 600mm pine panel:

Plinth

TOP: 600mm x 305mm

FRONT AND BACK: 600mm x 200mm (2)

Header

TOP: 600mm x 323mm

BATTEN: 600mm x 50mm

Tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

For the plinth (base), on the top piece mark six holes 10mm from the edges at each corner and centred on the long sides, then predrill using a countersinking bit. Apply a bead of woodworking adhesive to top edge of front and back pieces, clamp in position against the plinth top and secure with 40mm screws; leave to set. Apply timber filler to the screw holes with a scraper, leave to dry, then sand plinth all over, wiping away dust with a cloth. Spray the plinth with two coats of clear gloss sealer, leaving to dry after each coat. Put the plinth in the mini cloakroom’s final position and place the coat rack centred on top to check for fit; remove coat rack. 

For the front panel, on the 1800mm x 600mm pine panel mark two holes 100mm from the base and sides. On the header top mark six holes 10mm from the edges at each corner and centred on the long sides, and on the header batten mark two holes 100mm from the ends centred on the front face. Predrill all marked holes using a countersinking bit. Apply a bead of woodworking adhesive to the top of the front panel and batten, position against the header top, clamp in place and secure with 40mm screws; leave to set.

Enlist another pair of hands to lift the assembly into position against the plinth. Check the header for level, then mark the location of the batten holes. Secure the batten to the wall using suitable fixings, then secure the base of the front panel to the plinth using 40mm screws through the predrilled holes.

On the centre of the coat rack base, predrill a hole using a countersinking bit. Slide the coat rack into position on the centre of the plinth and secure the base with a 40mm screw. 

For the front cladding, measure the finished height of the front (ours is 1818mm) to mark on the acoustic panel. Following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, cut the acoustic panel to size using a circular saw with straightedge, then sand cut edge and wipe away dust with a cloth. Apply construction adhesive to the back of the acoustic panel. With the factory-finished edge at the top, lift acoustic panel into place and press against the front panel. Secure through the felt using button-head screws, fixed at 300mm spaces across the width and 600mm along the length. Measure and cut the end caps to length, and install using construction adhesive; leave to set.

For the mirror, mark your desired position on the cladding with painter’s tape. Following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, apply mirror mounting tape and adhesive to the back of the mirror and press into position. Install self-adhesive strip lights along edge of the cladding, run the cable under the plinth and plug in.

Assembly and cutting tips

• “Measure twice, cut once” is an old tradie adage that’s very sound advice! For any D.I.Y. project, check and recheck the measurements that apply to your space and premade elements of the build, such as the coat rack we used, before cutting.
• Our mini cloakroom plinth sits flush against the wall. If you need to make allowance for a skirting board, adjust the header top dimensions.
• To cut the plinth and header pieces, mark the timber using a combination square, and cut to size using a circular saw with a straightedge clamped to the workbench; sand cut edges and wipe away dust.

Tip: Did you know you can take advantage of our cutting service for many timber products? Enquire at your local store.