This custom “drop zone” in an Andover, MA home turns an everyday entry hallway into a hard-working landing spot for coats, bags and shoes. We built a finish-grade plywood bench into a recessed nook, with storage cubbies below the seat and full-height cabinets above and to either side — so everything from winter gear to seasonal items has a place, all built to match the home.

The backboard is finished in beadboard with a row of coat hooks, and the whole unit is trimmed out with crown molding for a clean, custom look. A rich, dark-stained bench top ties it together against the soft off-white cabinetry. From layout and carpentry to paint and final trim, this built-in was designed and installed to fit the space exactly.