Storage Solutions

Featured Storage Projects

Hand-picked plans from the August 2015 archives by Dale, focused on building functional storage into beds, benches, and small living spaces.

Build Inspiration

From bedside storage to garage shelving, the projects below share a common goal: turning unused volume into organised space. Each plan links back to the source tutorial so you can follow the original author's step-by-step.

Project Snapshot

A quick comparison of the storage builds featured in this category.

Storage projects are a popular corner of the woodworking community because they solve real household problems with simple materials and clear joinery. Many builders start with platform bed frames that double as hidden drawers, combining sleeping space and clothing storage in one piece of furniture. The appeal lies in making two functions work together without sacrificing the clean lines of a modern bedroom. Plans that break the bed into two manageable pieces also make transport and assembly easier for hobbyists working in small shops or shared spaces.

Bench seating with built-in compartments is another favorite among DIY woodworkers who want practical furniture for entryways and mudrooms. Lifting lids or hinged seats reveal space for shoes, blankets, and seasonal items, turning a simple bench into a high-use organizer. Because the projects rely on common lumber and straightforward cuts, they are approachable for builders still developing their skills. Finishing choices, such as painted fronts or natural wood tops, let the piece blend with farmhouse, contemporary, or industrial interiors without major redesign.

Under-bed storage has long been a quiet hero of small-space design, and reclaimed wood makes the solution feel both rustic and responsible. Reusing planks from pallets, old decking, or dismantled furniture keeps material costs low while adding character through knots, nail holes, and weathered grain. Wheels or low-profile casters can be added so the drawers slide easily across hard floors. When sealed and finished, reclaimed wood storage can match the durability of new lumber while telling a more interesting visual story in the bedroom.

Workshop storage follows a similar philosophy, turning walls, ceilings, and under-bench space into organized homes for hand tools, router bits, and small machinery accessories. Pegboards, French cleats, and shallow cabinets keep frequently used items visible and within reach, reducing the time spent searching for the right clamp or jig. Mobile bases on stationary machines make cleaning and reconfiguring the shop far easier, especially in shared community spaces. Good workshop storage is really an investment in smoother, safer, and more enjoyable project time.

Online plan databases make it easy to compare storage projects side by side and choose builds that match available tools and skill levels. Readers often look for clear measurements, accurate cut lists, and photos that show how joinery comes together at each stage. Comments and reader follow-ups add a second layer of guidance, pointing out clever modifications or common pitfalls to avoid. Over time, that shared knowledge turns a single plan into a starting point for many personalized storage builds across the woodworking community.

Tips for Building Storage Pieces

• Measure the room twice before finalising internal drawer or compartment dimensions.
• Choose plywood grades and finishes that match the humidity of the room where the piece will live.
• Plan access first — lids, drawers, and doors should open fully without hitting walls or other furniture.
• Reinforce high-load areas like bench lids and bed slat supports with secondary bracing.