The Bench - Built-ins Part 5

The Bench: DIY Built-ins Part 5

How to Build a Sturdy, Legless Wall-Mounted Bench

I wanted to share the bench details with you all before we head into the holiday break! If you're joining this project in progress, welcome! You can catch up on all the work done in this room by checking out the project links at the bottom of this post.

To be honest, the bench was a surprisingly easy build—actually, much easier than I anticipated. I have a habit of overthinking things, and this was no exception.

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The Design: Overthinking vs. Reality

Initially, I was convinced I needed two or three legs to support the weight of anyone sitting on a 70" span. I was worried about sagging and structural integrity. However, when my brother-in-law stopped by, I asked for his take.

His solution? Keep it simple! 

He suggested a basic 2 X 4 structure attached directly to the wall studs and the base cabinets.

Me: "Wait, won’t it sag? It’s 70 inches long!"

Him: "Nope. To make those 2 X 4s on their side to sag, you’d need an elephant to sit on them. The studs and the cabinet bases are more than enough support."

I'll take "easy" over "complicated" any day! Here is how the process went down.

Step 1: Locating the Studs

The most crucial step for a floating bench is finding your anchors. I went the "old school" way by poking holes with an awl to ensure I was hitting the dead center of each stud. Since this bench carries a load, those screws need to be perfectly placed.

Step 2: Building the Frame

For the main structure, I used 2X4 lumber connected with pocket holes.

Pro-Tip: The "Extra Set of Hands"

Since I was working alone, I used scrap plywood to support the frame while I drove screws into the wall studs and side cabinets. It acted like a temporary ledge, keeping everything level while I worked.

Step 3: Finding the Right Screw Depth

I have a specific trick to make sure I'm using the correct screw size. I grabbed a piece of scrap molding to simulate the thickness of the sheetrock. 

By holding the screw up against the 2X4s and the "sheetrock," I could see exactly how deep the screw would penetrate the wall stud.

Step 4: Installing the Seat

For the bench top, I used 1/2" plywood. I secured it to my 2X4 frame using 1" screws.

Note: I'll be adding a decorative "face" board to the front later to give it a finished, professional look.

RYOBI DRILL/DRIVER COMBO

Step 5: The Planked Wall Treatment

Once the bench structure was in, I moved on to the wall. I used 8" underlayment planks for a custom look.

• No Glue? I decided skip the construction adhesive on this part.

• Why: I might want to change the wall treatment down the road. By using only nails driven into the studs, the planks are secure but will be much easier to remove later without damaging the drywall.

RYOBI Brad Nailer (Tool-Only)

What's Next?

The above picture shows the last plank I installed that day! I had to hit the brakes there because I needed to finish the ceiling before I could complete the top part of the shelving units. 

If you missed the ceiling transformation, [check out that post right HERE].

The Rustic Coffered Ceiling

And here is the look of the bench all done:

Check the following links for complete details about this project:

Part 1: The Starting Point
Part 2:  The Base Cabinets

Part 3:  The Decorative Toekick
Part 4: The Shelves
Part 5: The Bench

Part 6: The Table Makeover
Part 7: The Ceiling
Part 8: The Cabinet Doors

Part 9: DIY Pull-out Drawers
Part 10: The Final Reveal

For more Home DIY ideas, check these out:

How to Build a Range Hood

DIY - Spiral Christmas Tree Ornaments

Kitchen Table Makeover

*This post contains affiliate links.

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