Introduction
If you’re looking to refresh your patio or backyard with something both useful and beautiful, this wooden garden bench with integrated planter boxes is a perfect choice. It combines a generous, comfortable seating area with two planter boxes that bring color and life to the space. This is a copy-paste ready long blog post with clear image placeholders—you don’t need to delete or modify anything.
Why This Design Stands Out
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Smart use of space: Central bench for seating + planters on both ends = decor and function in one footprint.
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Soft privacy & framing: Plants create a natural screen in front of fences or walls.
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Modern, tidy lines: Straight edges, warm wood tones, and clean faces.
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Easy to customize: Adjust length, height, and wood species to match your yard and budget.
Suggested Dimensions (Guidelines)
These are reference numbers—adapt them to your space and comfort:
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Overall bench length: 240–300 cm (94–118 in)
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Seat depth (usable): 45–50 cm (18–20 in)
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Seat height: 43–45 cm (17–18 in)
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Each planter (exterior): 45–55 cm (18–22 in) wide/long with 35–45 cm (14–18 in) soil depth
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Drainage gap at the bottom: 10–15 mm (3/8–5/8 in) plus drilled drain holes
Recommended Materials
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Weather-resistant wood: Cedar, Meranti, or pressure-treated pine
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Exterior-grade screws (galvanized or stainless)
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Exterior wood glue
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Planter liner (landscape fabric or plastic) + staples/tacks
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Exterior oil/stain or outdoor varnish/sealer
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Small gravel + quality potting mix
Useful Tools
Circular/table saw, drill/driver, sander, tape measure, square, clamps, pencil, brush or cloth for finish.
Anatomy at a Glance
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Left planter box + central bench structure + right planter box
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Outer frames from thicker stock; faces clad with clean boards
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Seat surface made from straight boards over sturdy interior joists
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Inside each planter: liner + drain holes + gravel layer + soil
Step-by-Step Build
1) Plan & Prepare
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Measure the installation area and decide your final length.
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Choose whether you want a backrest (the pictured version is backless).
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Draft a cut list based on your chosen dimensions.
2) Build the Planter Boxes
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Assemble four sides and a slightly raised base to allow drainage.
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Fasten with glue and exterior screws; keep corners at 90° with a square.
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Drill several drain holes in the base and leave a small underside gap for airflow.
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Install the inner liner and re-open the drain holes through the liner.
3) Construct the Central Bench Frame
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Build a long lower frame, then add internal joists every 30–40 cm (12–16 in).
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Skin the front and sides with clean, straight boards for a modern look.
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Align the top edges with the planters so the whole assembly reads as one line.
4) Install the Seat Boards
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Cut the seat boards to equal length; leave 3–5 mm (1/8–3/16 in) gaps for ventilation/drainage.
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Screw the boards down to the joists; avoid over-tightening to prevent splitting.
5) Tie the Modules Together
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Fasten each planter to the bench frame from the inside so screws are hidden.
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Check for level and straightness end-to-end and front-to-back.
6) Sanding & Finish
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Ease all edges for comfort and safety.
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Apply an exterior oil/stain; let it penetrate, then apply a second coat as needed.
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Quality finish protects against sun and rain and enhances the wood grain.
Filling the Planters
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Add a thin base layer of gravel or clay pebbles for drainage.
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Fill with a light, rich potting mix and plant your favorites (daffodils, marigolds, lavender, etc.).
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Water thoroughly and ensure excess water exits through the drain holes to avoid root rot.
Safety & Quality Tips
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Wear safety glasses and gloves while cutting and sanding.
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Test your chosen finish on an off-cut before applying to the project.
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For full-sun locations, prefer an exterior oil/stain with UV protection.
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Maintain small ventilation gaps between boards to reduce swelling.
Customization Ideas
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Add a low backrest for extra comfort.
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Include a narrow storage bay under the seat for outdoor cushions.
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Tuck a waterproof LED strip under the top lip for evening ambiance.
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Choose darker or lighter finishes to match your outdoor style.
Seasonal Maintenance
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Every 6–12 months, wipe down and refresh the protective finish if needed.
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Re-tighten any screws that loosen with temperature changes.
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Refresh planter soil once a year to keep plants healthy.
FAQ
Can I build it from budget pine?
Yes—use pressure-treated pine and a robust exterior finish.
How do I prevent water pooling in the planters?
Drain holes + breathable liner + gravel base = reliable drainage and airflow.
What’s the most comfortable seat height?
43–45 cm (17–18 in) suits most people; adjust to taste.
Can I install it tight against a fence?
Yes, but leave a small gap for airflow, cleaning, and to avoid blocking drainage.
Conclusion
This garden bench with side planters blends comfort, style, and utility in one approachable project. With straightforward materials and clear steps, you can transform your outdoor space and enjoy calm seating wrapped in greenery. Tailor the dimensions to your area, don’t skip the finish, and keep up simple maintenance for years of good looks and durability.
Download the plan
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