Bar-Height Banquette Seating

A sun porch is updated with an L-shaped banquette seat.

More from Don't Sweat It
Filed under: Benches, Furniture, How To

The top of the banquette is stained while the face is given a faux-antique finish.

Materials and Tools:

air compressor and hoses
circular saw
electric miter saw
finish nailer
wood glue
level
speed square
table saw
wood filler
two sheets of 3/4" oak plywood
80 linear feet of oak panel molding
20 linear feet of oak half-round molding

Steps:

1. Draw the design and dimensions for banquette. Ours is an L-shape with a seat height of 29 inches to accommodate a tall, bar-height table. At this height, you may also want to include a rail on the face of banquette for a foot rest.

2. After making a cut list, begin cutting. Use the table saw for long rips, and the circular saw or miter box for crosscuts.

3 Assemble the banquette unit in two sections. Make sure each piece will fit through your door before you begin. Nail and glue all the plywood together. Use corner braces for extra support. Add molding as necessary.

4 Use wood filler to fill the nail holes. Sand smooth then stain or paint as desired.

5 Attach the bar foot rail to the banquette using matching screws. The banquette is made of 3/4" hardwood plywood, so screwing directly into the frame will provide plenty of support.