Outdoor Storage Bench — Vertical Slat Design

Build the two side panels. The easiest way is to start with one of the legs, mark it 1-1/2" in for the frame (a 1x2 makes a handy gauge since it's 1-1/2" wide), and build out from there. Fill with vertical slats spaced evenly.

The end panels are simpler frames of slats. Screw the frame boards together, lay the slats in, and fasten. Keep the slat spacing consistent with the sides.

Attach the four panels into a box with 2" screws. Skip the glue if you want to be able to disassemble it later; use glue for a stronger permanent joint.

Attach the bottom boards with 2" screws — glue for permanence, no glue if you want knockdown. Leave slight gaps between bottom boards so water drains rather than pools.

Build the top by fastening the 13 slats across the three 1x2 supports. Hinge it to the box with exterior door hinges so it opens as a lid.

Finish every piece (you likely already did each panel), fill exposed screws with paintable silicone, lightly sand, and add a topcoat. Confirm the lid swings freely and the box drains.