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How to make a trendy cafe-style bench seat

By Bunnings magazine /

A cushioned bench seat with a ‘floating’ coffee table next to a green plant in a basket

Overview

This cafe-inspired bench seat setting is a real space-saver: a table for two fixed to a timber bench to create a multipurpose zone. Use off-the-shelf items to make and paint the table and bench, then add a cushion pad. The rest is paint-led decoration with an abstract vibe.

For the seat cushion, we used 125mm high-density foam for comfort and longevity, but upcycling a preloved bench cushion would work just as well – simply adjust the dimensions of the timber box and the table height to suit.

Safety tip:

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

Steps

  1. 1

    Cut the timber

    On one pine panel, measure, mark and cut two 369mm-long bench sides using a circular saw and guide. The other three panels form the bench front, back and top. Sand cut edges and wipe away dust using a damp cloth.
    A hand using a circular saw to cut timber to make the bench seat
  2. 2

    Build the box

    Use a 6G countersinking bit to predrill three evenly spaced holes 9mm in from the ends of the front, back and top, with six along the top sides. Position the front and back against the sides, joining with adhesive and 40mm screws, then attach the top.
    A hand using a drill to join the timber panels to make the bench seat
  3. 3

    Prepare, sand and paint timber

    Fill screw holes with timber filler, let dry, then sand smooth and wipe away dust. Working on a drop sheet, apply primer and two coats of paint to the round panel and the bench box using rollers; let dry after each coat.
    A gloved hand painting a round timber panel using a roller in brown
  4. 4

    Paint the pipes

    Twist the elbow onto the 100mm base pipe, then twist each pipe onto a flange. Using a cardboard box as a booth, spray on metal primer and leave to dry. Use a brush to apply two coats of paint to the flange assemblies; let dry after each coat.
    A black gloved hand spray painting a pipe with metal primer using a cardboard box as a spray booth
  5. 5

    Attach the pipes

    Centre the base flange 100-200mm from the box base, elbow up; secure with 20mm screws. Centre and secure top flange on the underside of the table; twist it onto the elbow. Secure bench to the wall (see Stable table, below).
    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: Mark flange holes and predrill.
    A close up of a hand holding brown-painted pipework and flange in place against the bench seat
  6. 6

    Make the cushion covers

    Paint designs on fabric in the two colours; let dry. Use a utility knife to trim noodles to 1200mm. Cut fabric to fit noodles and seat pad, wrapping and folding neatly; secure hidden edges with cloth tape. Position seat pad. Secure noodles to wall 200mm above the seat with double-sided tape.

    A close up of a hand painting a blue and brown swirl design for the bench seat cover on a canvas drop sheet
  7. 7

    Secure your bench to a wall

    The bench should be secured to the wall for safety and stability. Use a stud finder and position the bench to match the spacings (usually 450mm or 600mm). Secure 20mm angle brackets to the top, using 6G x 40mm timber screws, 300mm from the ends (adjust for stud spacings). Position the bench and screw into wall studs through the angle brackets; the seat pad will cover them. Or, to leave a gap for skirting, secure furniture anchors into studs and make the seat pad deeper to cover the gap.

  8. 8

    Keep in mind...

    • When using power tools, always wear the recommended safety gear (such as gloves, mask, and eye and ear protection), follow the manufacturer’s instructions and work in a well-ventilated area.
    • If painting behind a wall light, turn off the power before working, avoid getting paint on any electrical parts and allow it to dry thoroughly before use. Any hardwired electrical work must be carried out by a licensed tradie.
    • Before drilling into walls, use a stud finder to check for wiring or pipework, and turn off the power before working. If unsure, call a professional.
    • When painting or spray-painting, wear eye protection, a mask and gloves and work in a well-ventilated area, covering surrounding areas with a drop sheet to avoid overspray.
    • Keep all paint and chemicals out of reach of children and pets.
    • When choosing indoor plants, always read the label as some can be toxic to children and pets.
    • Do not place food directly on a painted surface; always use a platter or plate.
    • 9

      After more space-saving seat design ideas?

      Learn how to make an outdoor storage bench.

       

      Photo credit: Guy Bailey, Artemis Gouros and Eunice Oh.

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    Health & Safety

    Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

    When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.