How to Build a Window Seat

This storage bench is designed as a built-in window seat. It's a place to enjoy the sun or a great view. You can easily customize the seat to fit under any window just by adjusting the length of the top, side, front, and back pieces.

It's a built-in unit, so the chest doesn't need a bottom. You can add a bottom to make it freestanding -- ideal as a blanket chest at the foot of a bed or even as a child's toy chest.

Checklist

Time
About 4 hours to build plus 2 hours to finish

Tools
Tape measure, clamps, electric drill/driver, screwdriver, hammer, nail set, tablesaw or circular saw with straightedge jig, router with piloted 3/8-inch rabbeting bit

Skills
Sawing, gluing, clamping, routing

Prep
Prepare a work area

Lid supports are spring-loaded mechanisms that hold the lid open and make it close gently so it won't slam down on your head or fingers. If children are around, it's important to install a lid support on a low bench like this one.