How to Install a Mudroom Bench with Shiplap

When David and I began house hunting, one of our top priorities was having a designated mudroom. With two dogs (and muddy paws), we knew we needed a functional space to serve as a catch-all for coats, bags, and everything in between. While I was away for work, David found this house—and one of the first things he said was, “It has a mudroom, so start pinning ideas!” Imagine my surprise when I returned home from another work trip to find that he had already started building it. We documented the entire process to show you how to install a mudroom bench with shiplap and create a functional, stylish entryway design on your own.

Photo by GloryRoze Photography

Table of Contents

How to Install a Mudroom Bench with Shiplap

This is our before photo, which was the image I saw on realtor.com, and I instantly started pinning inspiration for the space based on that perfect nook.

Step One: Measure & Acquire Supplies

David measured the space in general to determine how many pieces of shiplap he needed. He opted for tongue-in-groove wood to create the shiplap. For the cubbies, he used some scrap 3 x 6 pieces of wood we had from previous projects and had specific pieces measured for the tops and bottoms of the cubbies.

Step Two: Prep the Area

Since the nook was already empty, there wasn’t much prep needed. David pulled up the baseboards where the bench would sit and cleaned the floors. A smooth, clean surface helps everything go much faster when you’re building in a small space.

Step Three: Build the Bottom Box

With help from our friend, David built a box to serve as the base for the bench cubbies. They divided the space into three evenly sized compartments and used those same measurements for the top cubbies later on. After the base was complete, he added baseboards around the bottom to match the rest of the room for a seamless look.

Step Four: Install the Shiplap Wall

Using the tongue-and-groove boards made spacing simple and uniform. To keep the dimensions visually consistent with the cubbies, they measured carefully and installed 12 pieces of shiplap from top to bottom. The shiplap adds texture and brings that classic charm we are going for in the mudroom.

Step Five: Build the Upper Cubbies

Next came the upper box for the cubbies. The main difference between the top and bottom sections was the finish work—David used thinner dividers on the top and added molding to finish off the top and bottom for a polished look.

Fun fact: I had a custom cushion made for a window seat in our previous home, and it ended up fitting perfectly in the new bench space. The Rifle Paper Co. fabric is still one of my favorite finds.

Step Six: Paint It All

I painted the entire bench and shiplap in Sherwin-Williams Alabaster, a soft, warm white that keeps the space feeling clean yet cozy. The smooth cubby boards soaked up more paint than expected, so it took a few extra coats to get an even finish. I was less particular with the shiplap to maintain a bit of rustic character.

To complete the look, I painted the walls in Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray, which we have used in most rooms throughout our ranch-style home.

Step Seven: Add Finishing Touches

To finish off our mudroom makeover, I swapped out the old light fixture for a lantern-style pendant that added instant charm. We also installed three black metal hooks beneath the top cubbies—perfect for coats, scarves, and bags, especially during colder months.