This time, the designer is tackling a new question: how to close up the ugly radiators that are ruining the interior of her Victorian home. Erin has created not only a beautiful but also an extremely functional area: here you can bask in the sun in early spring or lie down with your favorite book on a cloudy autumn day. And if the width of the window allows, then you can equip a full-fledged sleeping place for a guest who stayed overnight.
Step 1. Prepare the work area
First, dismantle the window sill and prepare the workplace by freeing up space around the radiator.
Step 2. Building the frame First of all, decide on the size of the bench. Cut the planks to the appropriate length, 10 cm wide and 5 cm thick. In the photos, the bench has an unusual shape, you can repeat it: then cut the bars at an angle so as to form the lower base for the banquette. Or make a rectangular bench.
Step 3. We sheathe the frame with drywall The most suitable material for sheathing in this case is drywall. Cheap and easy to use, it will create the illusion that the banquette is an extension of the wall. You can even use drywall left over from a previous renovation.
Step 4: Cut Out the Vents In order for the hot air from the radiator to circulate calmly and for the structure to not overheat, you need to cut holes for the ventilation grilles. Consider the width of the skirting board you are going to use around the vent.
Step 5. Making the top of the bench For the upper part, choose high-quality plywood at least 2 cm thick (so that the plywood does not sag under the weight of a person sitting on the couch). Cut it to the dimensions of the supporting structure. Make sure the plywood is well sanded and attach it to the supporting structure.
Step 6. Paint! Finally, the fun part begins. Apply two coats of primer before painting, as drywall absorbs paint like a sponge. Choose the color of paint that the walls are painted with. Be sure to let each coat of paint dry.