Built-In Hall Tree

Reflections

This hall tree checked ALL the boxes for a great project.

Necessary. Below you will see what this space used to be. A simple walnut bench and coat rack (both MRT originals). Since that picture was taken, my family doubled in size and our shoes and jackets quadrupled. We needed this small entryway space to be as effecient as possible to support all the articles! I can confidently say, there is less mess (there is no such thing as no mess with 2 kids).
Novel. Though I have done cabinetry and built-ins before (see Walk In Closet), this type of space was novel to me. I also wanted to try a number of elements with this build that were new to me. Open cabinetry with a baskets-based storage system, and a shiplap backer were all new. I also wanted to build the cabinets out of plywood for cost and ease, but enhance the quality with solid oak for the fronts. This concept was also ratheer new for me.
Impassioned. Once I had settled on a design and got to work, it was easy to get to the finish line on this one. Despite having no interior design sense, I was satisfied with the spacing and dimensions of each section. The color staining was perfect, the traditional craftsman style was confirmed and the woodworking flywheel was spinning fast. That is not always the case.

Oak Plywood Cabinets

Built from Red Oak ACX 3/4" plywood with solid wood supports

Finishing

I wanted to use Rubio Monocoat, but I could not get the color right on multiple attempts. I audibled and mixed minwax American Chestnut with Arm-R-Seal which was magnificent. The color was perfect and the Arm-R-Seal adds added oil based protection. Last came a coat of paste wax finish

Solid Ash Bench

This is single slab of figured ash. After planing jointing the two boards, I filled the knots and imperfections with black CA glue. I had never used black CA glue before,but I definitely will be moving forward. I love the pops of black throughout. I routered the top edge and bottom ed with different bits. There is a traditional roundover on top, while the edge/bottom is a slow easy taper. This was a trick I learned years ago to give simple furniture an easy, yet elegant touch. Again, I finished with that Minwax American Chestnut, Arm-R-Seal and paste wax finish. Prior to installing the bench I actually moved the outlet that you see pictured. Originally it was only 1 foot off the ground and would have been inaccessible after installing the shoe cabinets. The new powerport will be handy in the future.

Solid Ash Hook Header

I debated whether to do this board at all, but I am really glad I did. First, it give the hooks a very strong anchor. Secondly, the color and craftsmanship really the top and bottom cabinets together. I used a simple chamfer bit to route the sides and finished the board identical to the bench. The hooks are from Amerock. I actually bought more rustic hooks originally and decided against them. Very pleased with the quality, style and color on these.

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