5 Small Coastal Entryway Bench Ideas with Storage for Beach Cottages
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Oh, the eternal struggle of the small entryway! If you live in a charming, cozy beach cottage like mine, you know the drill. Keys, sandy shoes, mail, dog leashes, that forgotten beach towel... it all piles up right inside the door. For years, my entryway was a chaotic landing strip for all the things, threatening to trip us every time we came home.
But fear not, fellow coastal dwellers! I’ve embarked on a mission to conquer the clutter, and along the way, I’ve discovered (and created!) some brilliant small entryway bench solutions that offer both style and much-needed storage. From DIY flips to clever finds, these ideas will help you wrangle the mess and welcome serenity into your home.
Ready to transform your entryway from chaotic to coastal chic? Let's dive in!
Key Takeaways from this Post:
Space-Saving Designs: Discover benches under 14" deep that fit the narrowest cottage hallways.
Storage Secrets: The pros and cons of hidden flip-tops versus easy-access cubbies.
Budget DIY Projects: How to turn thrift store finds into high-end coastal furniture with just paint and nautical rope.
Styling Tips: How to use a "neutral-first" palette to make a small entryway feel larger and breezier.
1. DIY Coastal Flip-Top Storage Bench
At a Glance:
Space Needed: Narrow (Under 14" deep)
Budget: $ (Under $75, if repurposing)
Skill Level: Beginner-Intermediate DIY
Best For: Hiding shoes, dog toys, or smaller items.
This was my very first entryway victory, born out of a "DIY disaster" involving an old, forgotten chest from my grandmother’s attic. It was solid wood, but seven shades of peeling paint and a broken hinge made it an eyesore. But I saw potential!
A little sanding, some fresh coastal white paint, and a sturdy new hinge transformed it into a flip-top storage bench that now hides all our dog walking essentials.
How to Recreate It:
Source your bench: Look for an old cedar chest, a sturdy wooden trunk, or even a basic flip-top storage bench from a discount store.
Prep and paint: Sand any rough surfaces, prime for adhesion, and apply 2-3 coats of coastal-inspired paint (think crisp white, soft grey, or a light seafoam green). Distressing the edges can add character!
Hardware update: Replace old, rusty hinges with new, sturdy hinges (I recommend soft-close for safety!). Add decorative handles like nautical rope or aged brass pulls for that authentic beach house feel.
Cushion comfort: Top with a simple bench cushion in a washable fabric (stripes or a solid linen work perfectly) for added comfort and style.
Buy it option:
My friend Emily bought the Prepac Monterey White Storage Bench when it was on sale and loves it
My sister went with the Beachcrest Leyburn Fliptop bench that's a bit pricier but looks incredibly authentic
The rope trim that looks best costs about $8 at craft stores (avoid the really cheap stuff—it frays)
My designer friend says quick-dry foam from fabric stores is worth the extra money for benches near doors
Styling tips for beginners: When I first tried this, I went overboard with seashells, rope, and every blue item I owned. It looked like a souvenir shop exploded! Now I stick to neutral colors with just one or two coastal touches. My favorite combo is a white bench, one blue pillow, and a small driftwood art piece above. Oh, and I learned the hard way to keep a small basket beside the bench for wet umbrellas rather than storing them inside!
2. Slim-Profile Hall Tree with Bench
At a Glance:
Space Needed: Narrow (Under 15" deep), taller vertical space.
Budget: $$ (Mid-range, around $100-$250)
Skill Level: Easy Assembly
Best For: Hanging coats, bags, and storing shoes/small items.
For entryways with limited horizontal space but plenty of vertical wall, a slim-profile hall tree with a built-in bench is a game-changer. These pieces often feature hooks for coats and bags, shelves for hats, and a small bench for sitting (or just dropping items). It’s like a mini mudroom for your beach cottage!
How to Recreate It:
Measure carefully: Ensure the width and depth fit your specific entryway without blocking traffic flow. Look for designs that are under 15 inches deep.
Opt for integrated storage: Many hall trees have a bench with cubbies, drawers, or open shelves underneath for shoe storage. Woven baskets can slide into cubbies for a tidy look.
Coastal styling: Choose one in white, natural wood, or a light grey finish. Add nautical hooks (boat cleat style!) if they aren't already part of the design.
Practical additions: A small mirror above the bench is perfect for a last-minute check before heading out, and boot trays underneath will catch sand and water.
Buy it option:
The ClosetMaid Cubeicals bench goes on sale fairly often.I grabbed mine for 30% off
My mom loves her Better Homes & Gardens organizer bench that looks more expensive than it is
After destroying two cheap baskets, I finally invested in water hyacinth ones with liners that have survived countless sandy toys
My best tip: wait for end-of-season sales on outdoor cushions—I got mine for 70% off in October
The hooks that have held up best for me are simple wooden or metal ones without too many decorative details that can break off
Styling tips for beginners: The first set of baskets I bought had no liners and became dirt magnets. Learn from my mistake and get washable liners! Also, when I first set up my bench, I went with seven different shades of blue and it looked chaotic. Now I stick to just white, navy, and one accent color (currently a soft sage green) for a much cleaner look. Oh, and after stumbling in the dark once too often, I added those stick-on motion lights under the bench—total game-changer for under $10!
3. Built-In Window Seat Bench with Hidden Storage
At a Glance:
Space Needed: Wider wall, ideally under a window.
Budget: $$$ (Higher, often custom or skilled DIY)
Skill Level: Advanced DIY or Professional Install
Best For: Maximizing an underutilized wall, creating a cozy nook, ample hidden storage.
If you’re lucky enough to have a window in your entryway, a built-in window seat bench is the ultimate blend of style and function. It provides a charming spot to perch, enjoy the view, and (the best part!) offers incredible hidden storage underneath. This was my dream project when we renovated our sunroom, and it added so much character and utility.
How to Recreate It:
Custom build or IKEA hack: If you're handy, you can custom build a bench frame with hinged tops or pull-out drawers. A popular shortcut is using IKEA SEKTION kitchen base cabinets as the foundation, adding a custom top and trim.
Seating comfort: Invest in a well-made custom cushion that fits snugly. Choose a durable, washable fabric in a coastal print (stripes, solids, or subtle patterns).
Pillow talk: Layer with decorative throw pillows in varying textures (linen, knit) and coastal colors (navy, sand, coral) for an inviting look.
Functional storage: Design the storage to suit your needs – deep drawers for blankets, beach towels, or out-of-season gear, or lift-top sections for larger items.
Styling a coastal window seat: Add a small stack of beach-themed books, a seashell collection, or a cozy throw blanket draped over the side.
Buy it option:
My sister has the Vasagle narrow bench with coat rack that's perfect for her tiny hallway
For something more natural looking, my friend loves her Homfa bamboo rack
After destroying two cheap cushions, I found machine-washable ones on sale for about $25
Styling tips for beginners: In my first apartment, I painted my tiny bench bright blue and it visually chopped my small entryway in half. Now I always paint narrow benches a color very similar to the wall so they almost disappear. Also, forget those cute little signs and decorative items—in truly small spaces, they become clutter magnets. I've found that one tiny plant or a single framed photo provides personality without crowding.
4. Vintage Trunk or Chest Entryway Bench
At a Glance:
Space Needed: Varies depending on trunk size.
Budget: $ (Bargain finds) to $$$ (Antique shop treasures)
Skill Level: Zero DIY (unless restoring)
Best For: Unique character, storing bulkier items, instant coastal charm.
This is where the treasure hunt begins! A beautiful old trunk or chest can instantly become a stunning and functional entryway bench. I adore the character a vintage piece brings; each one tells a story. Look for sturdy wooden chests, old sea trunks, or even antique steamer trunks at flea markets, antique stores, or online marketplaces.
How to Recreate It:
The hunt: Keep an eye out for sturdy, flat-topped trunks that are comfortable to sit on. Don't worry about perfect condition; a little wear and tear adds to the character!
Clean and restore (optional): Give it a good clean. You can polish the metal, condition the wood, or leave it as is for a truly rustic look.
Add comfort: Top with a simple, flat cushion or a soft throw blanket for sitting.
Decorate: Style the top with coastal accents like a hurricane lamp, a stack of ocean-themed books, or a bowl of collected seashells.
Buy it option:
Custom cushions are worth saving for—mine was $200 but has lasted five years and counting
If custom isn't an option, try the storage benches from discount furniture stores and cut them to fit your space
Those fancy coastal drawer pulls can be found for a fraction of the price at big box hardware stores
IKEA's sheer curtains work perfectly for that breezy coastal vibe without breaking the bank
Don't waste money on fancy storage containers inside the drawers—shoe boxes covered in pretty paper work just as well
Styling tips for beginners: When I first created my window seat, I crowded the windowsill with so many little treasures that I couldn't set down a coffee cup. Now I keep it simple with just three blue glass bottles that catch the light beautifully. I also learned to use waterproof liners under any plants after one overwatering incident ruined some stored magazines. And remember that your window seat will fade in direct sunlight—either embrace the weathered look or invest in UV-resistant fabrics.
20 Coastal Home Decor Entryway Ideas to Create a Seaside Haven
5. Stackable Cubby Bench for Small Spaces
At a Glance:
Space Needed: Minimal (Under 12" deep)
Budget: $ (Under $100)
Skill Level: Easy Assembly
Best For: Shoe storage, small item organization, very tight entryways.
When space is really at a premium, a compact cubby bench is your best friend. These are typically narrower and shorter, designed specifically for shoe storage. They might not offer a full seating experience, but they are perfect for quickly stashing footwear and keeping your entryway tidy. Plus, many are stackable, allowing you to customize the height as needed.
How to Recreate It:
Pre-made convenience: Brands like Prepac or those found at Target/Walmart offer many affordable options. Look for a distressed white or light wood finish to match your coastal decor.
Woven baskets: To hide clutter, use fabric bins or woven baskets that fit snugly into the cubbies. Striped bins in navy and white are perfect for a nautical touch.
Top it off: The top surface can hold a small plant, a key bowl, or mail. Consider adding a small, round mirror above it to expand the sense of space.
Stack 'em high: If you need more storage but still have a narrow space, look for modular or stackable cubby units to build vertically.
Buy it option:
Wall-mounted shelving systems can be repurposed as benches—just make sure they're rated for adequate weight
Heavy-duty decorative brackets are worth the investment—I learned this when my first bench collapsed during a party
Custom-cut cushions are expensive, but I found an online foam company that cut to my specifications for half the price of local shops
The maritime decal above my bench was under $20 and adds personality without requiring any artistic skill
Those motion-sensor lights for under the bench? Under $10 at big box stores and they run forever on batteries
Styling tips for beginners: My first floating bench was beautiful but sagged in the middle the first time two people sat on it. Make sure your brackets hit solid studs and don't overload the bench with decorative items. I also found that positioning the bench at standard height (18" from the floor) makes it much more comfortable than the lower height I initially tried. And resist the urge to hang too many small pieces above it—one statement piece creates a cleaner, more spacious feel than a gallery wall in a tight space.
20 Coastal Home Decor Entryway Ideas For Your Cottage
What I’ve Learned…
I've moved three times since creating my first coastal entryway bench, and each time I've adapted these ideas to fit new spaces and challenges. What I've learned is that you don't need a mansion-sized foyer or interior designer budget to create a welcoming, organized entryway with coastal charm. Sometimes the most creative solutions come from the tightest constraints.
Top 3 Mistakes to Avoid When Styling a Coastal Entryway
Over-Cluttering Surfaces: The goal is storage, not display everything. Resist the urge to fill every flat surface with decor. A few curated items (a key bowl, a small plant, a framed photo) are perfect; a mountain of mail and random knick-knacks defeats the purpose of your new storage solution.
Forgetting Vertical Space: Small entryways often mean you need to think UP! Don't just focus on the bench. Add hooks above for coats, a high shelf for baskets, or a tall, narrow mirror to reflect light and create the illusion of more space.
Mismatched "Coastal" Elements: While my "seven shades of blue" story turned out okay, a truly cohesive coastal look requires a bit of restraint. Stick to a core palette of 2-3 main colors (whites, sandy neutrals, blues/greens) and introduce texture through natural materials like rattan, jute, distressed wood, and linen.
A small entryway doesn't have to mean a cluttered entryway. With a little creativity and these smart storage solutions, you can transform that high-traffic zone into a welcoming, organized, and beautiful introduction to your coastal cottage.
Which solution are you most excited to try? Do you have any genius entryway hacks I missed? Share your thoughts in the comments below! I'd love to hear them!
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Small Coastal Entryway Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How deep should an entryway bench be for a small space?
For narrow hallways or small cottage entries, look for a "slim-profile" bench that is between 11 and 14 inches deep. This provides enough room to sit comfortably while leaving at least 30 inches of walkway space so the area doesn't feel cramped.
What is the best fabric for entryway bench cushions?
Since entryways in beach homes deal with sand, salt, and damp swimwear, outdoor performance fabrics (like Sunbrella) or heavyweight linen blends are best. Look for fabrics labeled "moisture-resistant" or "machine-washable" to make cleaning up after a beach day much easier.
How can I make a dark entryway feel more "coastal"?
Paint your bench a crisp white or a very light "sea glass" blue. To brighten the space further, hang a mirror above the bench to reflect light and stick to light-colored natural textures like jute rugs or seagrass baskets for storage.
Are flip-top benches better than cubby benches?
It depends on your needs! Flip-top benches are better for hiding "ugly" clutter like dog leashes or bulky tools. Cubby benches are better for high-traffic shoe storage because they allow air to circulate around the shoes, helping them dry faster and preventing odors.
How do I protect a wooden bench from wet shoes?
If you are DIY-ing a bench, apply 2–3 coats of a water-based polyurethane or a marine-grade sealer. This creates a moisture barrier that prevents water from shoes or raincoats from warping the wood or ruining your paint job.