3 DIY Garden Corner Bench Ideas for Your Backyard

Ever wished you could relax and enjoy a cup of coffee in your garden, but felt cramped by the lack of seating? You’re not alone! Many of us crave a cozy nook in our outdoor space, but buying a pre-made bench can be expensive and feel impersonal. That’s where the magic of a DIY garden corner bench comes in – a simple, stylish solution that’s both affordable and uniquely yours!

From Bland to Beautiful: 3 DIY Garden Corner Bench Ideas to Level Up Your Backyard

Before: Imagine your backyard. Maybe it’s a haven of lush green grass, a canvas for summer BBQs and lazy afternoons. Or maybe it’s a little…empty. A blank slate waiting for your creative touch. You’ve got the vision, the desire to transform that space into a haven, but you’re missing that crucial element that will tie it all together. The missing piece? A cozy corner bench, tucked away amongst flowers and greenery.

After: Now, picture yourself relaxing on a DIY garden corner bench, the warm sun on your face, a gentle breeze whispering through the leaves. Birdsong fills the air, and the aroma of blooming flowers fills your senses. Your garden is a sanctuary, a place where you can unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Bridge: The good news? Creating that haven doesn’t require a hefty budget or professional help. You can easily build a beautiful DIY garden corner bench yourself. With some basic tools and readily available materials, you can transform your backyard into a tranquil retreat.

Ready to build your own DIY garden corner bench? Let’s dive in!

Idea #1: The Classic Pallet Corner Bench

Pallet projects are all the rage, and for good reason! They’re affordable, readily available, and lend themselves beautifully to a rustic, farmhouse aesthetic. A DIY garden corner bench built from pallets is a great way to add a touch of whimsy to your outdoor space.

For your first DIY garden corner bench, you can choose from a number of different pallet styles. Look for a sturdy pallet with a smooth, level surface. You can use a single pallet or combine two or three for a longer bench. For maximum seating comfort, add a cozy cushion or two, perfect for soaking up the sunshine and enjoying a good book.

Here’s a basic breakdown of the process:

1. Gather your materials: Pallet, wood screws, power drill, sandpaper, wood stain or paint (optional), cushion.
2. Prepare the pallet: Remove any loose nails or staples. Sand down the surface to create a smooth finish.
3. Cut and assemble: If necessary, cut the pallet to fit your desired dimensions. You can also use additional pieces of wood to create a backrest or armrests.
4. Stain or paint: Add a touch of color by staining or painting your pallet.
5. Add the cushion: Place a cushion on top of the pallet to create a comfortable seat.

Tip: If you’re using weathered pallets, consider leaving them as they are for a truly rustic, farmhouse look. If you prefer a clean, polished aesthetic, paint them a bold color or give them a fresh coat of stain.

Idea #2: The Elegant Cedar Corner Bench

Cedar is a fantastic choice for outdoor furniture, known for its natural resistance to moisture and decay. It creates a beautiful, warm, and inviting look. If you’re looking for a DIY garden corner bench that exudes elegance and durability, cedar is the way to go.

Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Cedar boards: Choose high-quality cedar boards in varying widths and lengths for the seat, backrest, and legs.
2. Wood screws: For secure assembly.
3. Wood glue: Add another layer of stability to your bench.
4. Power drill: For sinking screws smoothly.
5. Sandpaper: To create a smooth finish.
6. Cedar stain or sealant: Protect your cedar and add color.
7. Cushions (optional): For added comfort.

Follow these steps to build your elegant cedar corner bench:

1. Cut the boards: Use a saw or jigsaw to cut the cedar boards to your desired dimensions.
2. Assemble the seat: Attach the boards for the seat together, ensuring they are flush and level.
3. Build the backrest: Cut and attach the backrest boards, remembering to angle them slightly for comfort.
4. Construct the legs: Create strong and sturdy legs by attaching pieces of cedar to the bottom of the seat.
5. Secure the backrest: Attach the backrest to the seat using screws and glue.
6. Sand and finish: Sand the entire bench to smooth any rough edges and apply your chosen stain or sealant.
7. Add cushions: If desired, place cushions on the seat and backrest for extra comfort.

Tip: To add a touch of personality to your cedar bench, consider adding decorative elements like a carved detail on the backrest or legs. You can also use different colors of stain to create a unique, multi-toned design.

Idea #3: The Modern Concrete Corner Bench

If you’re in search of a contemporary look for your DIY garden corner bench, look no further than concrete. It’s sleek, durable, and surprisingly versatile. You can create a minimalist, modern design that complements the rest of your outdoor decor.

Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Concrete mix: Choose a high-quality concrete mix designed for outdoor use.
2. Mold: Create your own custom mold using plywood or foam.
3. Wood screws: For securing the mold.
4. Release agent: To prevent the concrete from sticking to the mold.
5. Level: To ensure your bench is straight.
6. Cushions (optional): For a touch of softness.

Follow these steps to build your concrete corner bench:

1. Build the mold: Create a secure mold using plywood or foam boards. Make sure the mold is sturdy and can withstand the weight of the concrete.
2. Apply release agent: Apply a release agent to the interior of the mold to prevent the concrete from sticking.
3. Mix the concrete: Mix the concrete according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Pour the concrete: Pour the concrete into the mold, making sure to level it evenly.
5. Smooth the surface: Use a trowel to smooth the surface of the concrete.
6. Let the concrete cure: Allow the concrete to cure for at least 24 hours, or longer as recommended by the manufacturer.
7. Remove the mold: Once the concrete is cured, carefully remove the mold.
8. Seal and finish: Seal the surface of the concrete to protect it from the elements.

Tip: For a truly unique look, use colored concrete mix or add decorative aggregates to the concrete mix. You can also paint the concrete after it has cured.

From simple to sophisticated, there’s a DIY garden corner bench out there for every style and budget. So, grab your tools, unleash your creativity, and transform your backyard into a welcoming, relaxing oasis. Your corner bench awaits!