Build a Pottery Barn Inspired Murphy Entry Bench

An Easy and Inexpensive Bench for an Entryway

This elegant bench is easy to build! The DIY furniture plans to build a Murphy Entry Bench, inspired by Pottery Barn, feature cubbies for baskets or crates, and a slightly raised back with a rounded edge on the side. Instead of pocket holes, it is constructed with countersunk screws, and the legs can be made from pieces of 4×4 post or screw-in legs with plates.

Materials:

• 2” Screws
• 4″ furniture legs with plates
• Wood Glue
• Sandpaper (80, 120, 220 grits)
• Finishing Supplies

Lumber:

• 1 – 4′ x 8′ sheet of 3/4″ plywood

Cut List:

• 1 – 3/4″ plywood at 15″ x 34″ – Bottom
• 2 – 3/4″ plywood at 15″ x 15″ – Sides
• 1 – 3/4″ plywood at 11-3/4″ x 15″ – Divider
• 1 – 3/4″ plywood at 2-1/2″ x 32-1/2″ – Lower Back Stretcher
• 1 – 3/4″ plywood at 15″ x 34 – Seat
• 1 – 3/4″ plywood at 2-1/2″ x 32-1/2″ – Upper Back Stretcher

Notes About the Project:

Edge banding will be applied to the exposed edges of the plywood prior to assembly

Step One

Cut the pieces for the sides and the bottom. Cut the side pieces as shown with a 2-1/2″ radius as the curve. Secure the sides flush with the side edges of the bottom piece using glue and countersunk 2-1/2″ screws.

Step Two

Cut the piece for the divider as shown. Secure the divider to the bottom piece using glue and countersunk 2-1/2″ screws. The front edge of the divider (without the notch) will be flush with the front edge of the bottom.

Step Three

Cut the piece for the lower stretcher. Secure to the divider, sides and bottom using countersunk 2-1/2″ screws.

Step Four

Cut the piece for the seat as shown. Secure to the divider and sides using countersunk 2-1/2″ screws.

Step Five

Cut the piece for the upper stretcher. Secure to the sides and seat using countersunk 2-1/2″ screws.

Step Six

Finish as desired.

If using pieces of a 4×4 post as the feet, cut four pieces at 4″ each. Secure to the bottom using glue and at least three 2-1/2″ screws. If using regular furniture feet, install the plates on the bottom according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then screw in the feet.

Have questions about the DIY furniture plans to build a Murphy Entry Bench? Leave a comment below!

Originally posted 2018-11-21 08:00:46.