If there’s one thing you need to add to your backyard this summer, it’s outdoor benches with storage. Benches add extra seating in your outdoor space and double as storage for your outdoor gear.
The question is: how do you choose the right bench in a sea of options? We’ve rounded up 15 of the most stylish outdoor storage benches to help you get started.
15 Most Stylish Outdoor Benches with Storage
1. Built-in Deck Bench
If you have a deck at your home, you can build outdoor benches with storage space. A built-in bench like this will provide you with plenty of space for storing all of your outdoor gear, kids toys and more.
This is a simple DIY project, and you can stain your bench to match the rest of your deck. And you can add onto it in the future if you have the space and need.
Check out this tutorial on how to build this style of outdoor bench:
2. Planter Bench with Storage
Who doesn’t love multi-purpose furniture? This DIY bench has storage, and it has built-in planters. It’s surprisingly easy to build yourself. While this particular bench is made with cedar boards, you can also use pressure treated wood.
The center seat has a lid that lifts up to reveal a storage space underneath. It’s a beautiful way to add some storage to your outdoor space and a little beauty. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that you built the bench yourself, which is quite an accomplishment.
The Handcrafted Haven has a complete tutorial on how to build this gorgeous bench, and the project comes together quicker than you think.
3. Country Wooden Bench with Backrest
If you love the old-timey, country style furniture, this bench is for you. It’s a gorgeous seat with a large storage space that’s great for holding your outdoor gear, or even for your package deliveries.
You can add outdoor cushions or leave it as-is. You’re only limited by your imagination with this bench.
While 100things2do.ca has a tutorial on how to build this bench from scratch, you can also find similar models online, like this outdoor bench from Amazon.
4. A DIY Modern Wooden Bench
We love simple outdoor benches with storage like this one because there are so many ways to make it your own. It’s a simple project that any level DIYer can tackle, even if you’ve never picked up a tool in your life.
The interior storage has enough space for kids’ toys, outdoor pillows and more.
You can see the tutorial for building this bench over at BetterRemade.com, or you can buy a similar wooden bench on Amazon. It’s not quite as big, but it’s a great alternative if you can’t or don’t want to build your own.
Related: Best Neutral Home Décor That Is Elegant and Chic
5. Teak Bench with Backrest and Storage
Teak is an excellent outdoor material because it’s exceptionally strong and highly durable. It can last for generations without any maintenance.
We love this teak bench – which you can grab at Walmart – because it’s a generous size and has plenty of room for storage.
You can place this five-foot long bench anywhere you want – near the pool, on your deck, near the fire pit. While teak does come with a higher price tag, it’s important to remember that this is a piece of furniture that will last for decades with zero maintenance.
6. Banquette Bench
This banquette bench looks so cozy in this outdoor space. The cushioned backrest and pillows make it a comfortable place to relax or entertain. Plus, there’s storage space to keep your backyard items hidden from sight.
To make this bench idea come to life, you’ll need two teak wooden benches. You’ll also need two sets of cushions to create a comfy seat. If you don’t have a solid surface to sit the bench up against, you can use backless cushions instead.
You can try your hand at making your own cushions if you have the skill and time. Between these two benches, you’ll have plenty of storage space for your outdoor items.
7. Weathered Bench
Here’s a simple but beautiful weathered bench that looks like it belongs on a ship. Inside, you’ll find loads of storage for outdoor cushions, pillows, gardening gear and more.
We like the fact that this bench has a backrest to give you a little extra support when you’re outside relaxing. And the seat lifts right up to reveal a large storage space for all of your items.
You can build a bench like this yourself, but if you’re not a DIYer, we found a similar one on Amazon.
8. Firewood Storage Bench
Most outdoor benches with storage are designed for storing cushions, pillows, toys and other items. But if you have a fire pit, you’ll love this idea – a bench with firewood storage.
This bench has an open cubby shelf along the bottom for stacking wood. It makes your firewood easily accessible and also serves as a nice place to sit.
If you don’t have a firepit or need firewood, you could still use this bench to store outdoor items.
Lowe’s has a great tutorial on how to create this exact bench, which only takes about a day to build.
9. Rattan Storage Box
Rattan is another great material for outdoor use, and this bench storage box is great for patio or deck use.
Unlike most storage benches, which just have one big internal space for storage, this box has two shelves. You can open up the top seat to access the top shelf, or you can open the cabinet doors to access everything inside.
The shelves can hold about 100 lbs., so you have a lot of flexibility in what you can store inside.
Related: 17 Chic Dining Table Benches to Make the Perfect Dining Room
10. Storage Bench with Drawers
Most storage benches have lift-top seats with internal storage spaces, but this bench has pull-out drawers instead. Drawers are great for storing small items and can be a good option for anyone who doesn’t need a whole lot of storage space.
You can build your own bench like this, but we found a similar one on Overstock for anyone who isn’t a big DIYer.
11. Simple DIY Bench with Hidden Storage
If you’re not afraid of a little DIY project, benches are such a rewarding project. The seat lifts up to reveal a storage space underneath. Hardware cloth allows for drainage and circulation.
If you don’t have the time, space or tools for a job like this, we found a similar bench on Overstock.
12. Rustic Bench with Pull-Out Drawer Storage
We love rustic outdoor benches with storage like this one, which have pull-out drawers for easy storage. Drawers are a nice alternative to conventional bench storage, especially if you only need a small amount of storage space.
This particular bench is made from reclaimed teak. We found a similar one on Overstock that has faux drawer faces and an open-top seat that offers lots more storage for all of your outdoor items.
13. Cedar Bench with Storage
Cedar is one of the best materials for outdoor use. It’s highly resistant to rot and termites, so it’s the perfect material for your outdoor bench.
And building your own cedar chest is easier than you think. This project has two big interior compartments where you can store totes and other items out of sight.
You can find the tutorial for building this bench on Our Handcrafted Life. If you’re not a fan of DIY projects, then we found a similar bench on Amazon that’s just as stylish.
14. Concrete Bench with Lift-Top Storage
Here’s a different take on the outdoor storage bench idea. Instead of wood or heavy-duty plastic, this bench is made from concrete. It features an open cavity inside, with wooden lift-top seats for easy access to the storage space. These fancy benches even have built-in lights to make the space a little cozier.
An idea like this is great because it’s low-maintenance and long-lasting. But it’s really best suited for anyone who is building a new patio or outdoor space.
15. Outdoor Storage Bench
Here’s a really simple outdoor bench that can hold all of the kids’ outdoor sports equipment, outdoor cushions and more.
This plastic bench has a hinged seat, so you can lift it up and easily access the items stored inside.
And because it’s made from heavy-duty plastic, you don’t have to worry about maintenance. It’s water-resistant and takes just minutes to assemble. The interior features a 50-gallon storage capacity, so you’ll have plenty of room for your items.
These are some of the most stylish outdoor benches with storage that we’ve found. You’ll find options for all budgets and needs, whether you prefer something compact or a big bench.
Related: 17 Best Folding Dining Chairs That Are Full Of Style
