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A bench seat with dual planter boxes made using treated Pine.
The project
This great little bench is a fantastic feature for our front garden. Made with a variety of Pine, it adds a touch of style to the front window. The dual planters on either side also allow for additional foliage to protect the window from the summer sun.
Steps
Step 1
Using the 35mm x 70mm treated Pine, cut out eight identical legs at the height you would like. Use the same type of timber to cut your two frames. The size and height of your pots will be dependant on the size of pot you would like to pop in them, or the overall size of the planter. Remember that frames with diagonal joins look better when completed so ensure they have a 45 degree angle so they fit together perfectly.
Step 2
Using the 75mm timber screws, pre-drill holes that cross over the diagonal of the wood and secure the screw in place to hold the frame together. Repeat with the second frame.
Step 3
Attach the legs to the frame by using easy spacers made from your off cuts. This will ensure the spacing remains consistent. Be sure to work on opposite sides so that the two sides mirror each other.
Step 4
Using the Pine lining board, line the outside of the planters by securing the board to the frame using 40mm timber screws. Ensure to measure carefully before cutting and again, work on opposite sides (eg. front to back is the same).
Step 5
Once your planters are lined, it’s time to putty up the screw holes using exterior timber filler and a paint scraper. This will allow for a smooth surface finish without any visible screws.
Step 6
While the filler is drying, move onto making the bench seat section. This will require three slats of equal length. I made my seating area 1500mm long as it was made to fit the window but you can adjust this to suit your area. Deciding how tall you would like the seat to be and then remove 35mm to allow for the slats. Build a small rectangular frame to fit this height that will act as a support in the centre. Connect the two parts together by using the 40mm screws through the frame and up into the bottom of the slats.
Step 7
Add a support beam for connecting your seat section safely. I used some off cuts of the 35mm x 70mm Pine and secured these into the planter frames using the 75mm screws for extra strength.
Step 8
Sand all sections and begin by painting the under side so that the lining board is protected from moisture. Paint underneath the bench seat as well as this is much easier while it is not attached.
Step 9
Attach the bench seat using 75mm timber screws from within the planter into the bench seat slats. It’s time for a coat (or two) of paint! I used a combination of a small roller and brush for this which made the process nice and easy.
Step 10
Head to Bunnings and choose your plants and potting mix to pop in your planters. Step back and enjoy!
Tools and materials
Materials used in the project:
- Treated Pine 70mm x 35mm
- Pine lining boards 140mm x 12mm
- Countersunk timber screws 10-8 x 75mm
- Countersunk timber screws 10-8 x 40mm
- Exterior paint
- Exterior timber filler.
Tools used in the project:
How to build an outdoor bench
The Bunnings team has shared a full step-by-step guide How to build an outdoor garden bench.
Bunnings Workshop member Rob has also shared a guide How to build a Besser block bench seat based on a popular project by fellow community member Sandy.
More inspiration for your outdoor bench project
Experienced contributor Poppop made his own outdoor bench seats with planter boxes.
Community member cadsman made a bench seat using Pine sleepers.
Get more inspiration from our collection of Top 10 most popular outdoor bench projects.
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