DIY L Shaped Breakfast Nook Bench Project

Tucked away breakfast nooks are the perfect spot for a cozy morning meal. With some simple DIY handiwork, you can customize the space by building your own L-shaped bench to fit your room's unique layout. Read on for how to plan, build, and style your dream breakfast bench on a budget.

Designing and Building a DIY L Shaped Breakfast Nook Bench

The first step to creating your custom L-shaped breakfast nook bench is deciding on the right size and style to suit your needs. Here are some important considerations when choosing your layout:

Choosing an L Shaped Corner Bench Design

Take measurements of your breakfast nook area, being sure to account for baseboards and potential cabinetry. Think about how much seating capacity you need - a smaller bench around 36-42 inches on each side can fit 2 people, while a larger 60+ inch size can comfortable seat 3 or more.

Also decide if you want integrated storage like lift-up bench seats or an open design. Upholstered cushions provide padding, while an all-wood bench matches a natural material aesthetic.

Planning Your Custom L Shaped Breakfast Nook

Sketch out bench dimensions to scale on graph paper, keeping at least 36 inches of walkway space in mind. Mark stud locations on your walls and include potential outlets or light fixtures in your plans.

Think creatively about bench height as well - standard counter height stools are 24 inches, while a dining bench may be 18 inches. Choosing a height in between at around 20-22 inches can provide comfortable, casual seating.

DIY L Shaped Corner Bench Materials

2x4 stud lumber makes a sturdy base for securing your bench frame to the wall. Use 3/4 inch plywood for the bench front and sides. A smooth 1x4 inch trim piece finishes edges nicely.

Opt for durable, hardwoods like pine boards over particle board for longevity. Waterproof glue, wood screws, and an electric drill are all the tools you'll need.

Step-By-Step Building Your DIY L Shaped Breakfast Bench

Follow these simple construction steps:

• Cut 2x4 boards to frame size and screw into wall studs as base
• Measure and cut plywood front, back, and sides to size
• Attach plywood pieces to 2x4 frame with glue and screws
• Use wood putty to fill holes, sand, and paint/stain as desired
• Add trim border to finish off edges for a polished look

The end result is a custom bench perfectly sized to your unique nook space. Feel free to get creative by adding built-in storage or an outlet to the side of your bench!

Get Creative with Your L Shaped Breakfast Nook Bench

Beyond just seating, your DIY breakfast nook bench can also double as clever storage and display. Here are some ways to make it both functional and stylish:

Storage Solutions and Organization Ideas

Built-in bench compartments are great for tucking away extra dishware or table linens. Or, create a lift-up bench seat to neatly conceal baskets and bins.

For an eclectic look, decorate the bench top with cute canisters, ceramic planters, or a long runner as a tablecloth alternative.

Rustic and Modern Design Inspirations

The simple lines of a DIY plywood bench effortlessly work in both rustic cabin or modern aesthetics. Accent with plush pillows and sunlight-reflecting pendant lighting for a cozy effect.

Or, paint the bench a sleek charcoal gray and pair with metal stools for an edgy, contemporary vibe. The styling options are endless!

Customizing Your L Shaped Corner Bench

Make the bench your own with fun, personalized details like:

• Paint or stain a lively accent color
• Mix and match printed throw pillow fabrics
• Stencil on a inspiring quote or pattern
• Attach corner greenery like trailing ivy

Adding your unique handcrafted touch with make enjoying breakfast in your nook even more special.

Save Money Building Your Own L Shaped Breakfast Nook Bench

Purchasing a pre-made breakfast nook bench can cost a minimum of $600 - and usually doesn't come in the perfect custom L-bench size and shape you need.

By gathering materials from your local home improvement store and putting in some DIY elbow grease, you can create a breakfast nook bench on a budget.

Ways to Build On a Budget

Save money by using less expensive wood types like pine boards over pricier maple or hickory options. Check secondhand construction stores for deals on lightly used 2x4 studs or plywood sheets.

Thrift vintage fabric tablecloths make great upholstery material once given an iron-on adhesive back. Repurpose old wooden crates or fruit boxes underneath bench seats rather than buying storage cubbies.

Budget-Friendly DIY Tips and Tricks

Craft quick DIY seat cushions by wrapping firm foam in cotton batting then stapling decorative fabric to the bottom. Or opt for a simple seat cover style by custom-cutting tablecloths secured with Velcro(r).

Save electricity by forgoing built-in bench outlets, and use a powerstrip extension cord when needed plugged into a nearby wall socket instead.

Maximizing Your Small Breakfast Nook Space

L-shaped corner bench seats are great breakfast nook space savers. Here's how to make the most out of your tiny dining area:

L Shaped Corner Bench Space Saving Solutions

The minimal footprint of an L-bench along the walls leaves plenty of open floor space for multiple chairs or stools on the end. Built-in storage underneath removes clutter from the room.

Curving booth-style bench seats on both sides of a bistro table is another roomy layout. Friends can slide around the rounded edges with ease during conversation.

Add leaves or fold-down elements to your bench to expand table space for holiday gatherings and dinner parties. Under-seat storage cubbies with cushion tops can act as extra impromptu seating.

Dual-height island counters styled with dangling pendant lanterns overhead create ambient mood lighting and a casual bar-height dining option.