How I created more storage in my kid's bedroom with this simple upcycle

Storage in my kid’s bedroom has always been an issue. The room is by no means small, but there was always an overflow of books or toys that ended up piled high in a plastic storage box in the corner, taking up valuable floor space and making the room feel cluttered and cramped. In one particular window nook I wanted to create a seating area that contained storage, so it was both functional and aesthetically pleasing at the same time. While I contemplated building a window seat, I felt something freestanding would be more appropriate and set about looking on eBay and Facebook Marketplace for something budget-friendly that I could upcycle to fit in with the blue and red design scheme of his bedroom.

I was lucky enough to find this timber box with a carved-out area on top for seating on eBay for £10. It was heavy and structurally sound, but it was just a little rough around the edges.

I set out filling the cracks, nail heads and dented area with a wood filler. Once the filler was dry, I used a palm sander to sand the whole box back so it was smooth with no jagged surface area.

After a wash down with soapy water, I let the storage bench dry before applying two coats of wood primer so that my topcoat of paint would adhere well and have a great finish. Once the primer was dry, I then painted the bench in two coats of Ashley Blue eggshell paint, before sticking on some bobbin trim that I had leftover from a wardrobe upcycle on the front to add some detailing.