With help from the Make-A-Wish foundation, BHG TV presenters Adam Dovile and Jason Hodges were able to make the dreams of super-fan Sam McAuliffe a reality. Sam has lived with cerebral palsy since birth, but he’s never let that get in the way of loving life or DIY ambitions. Now making his projects even easier, a custom workbench was built with easy access and storage for all his tools.
One of Sam’s favourite spots at home is his man cave – a DIY workshop where he and his dad create their projects. They like to integrate recycled and salvaged materials into their work. But their workspace needed a makeover to make it more user-friendly and was also crying out for storage. Sam has mobility issues and uses a custom wheelchair to get around, so a bench was designed with accessibility in mind.
You can create a production hub just like Sam’s for all your DIY projects. Start with a couple of flat-pack kitchen drawer cabinets, then top it off with a couple of hardy laminated timber panels that can take all you can dish out. A recycled softwood pallet cut into sections is an easy storage solution for your workshop. Screw a slat from the pallet to the bottom to create a handy clamp storage shelf.
Get the project sheet
Download the step-by-step instructions to build this workbench
Accessibility tips
There are a host of ideas that work for someone like Sam and can also be useful in other situations when accessibility and mobility are issues.
- When creating an accessible workspace specifically for one person, design it around their needs, allowing for suitable under-bench clearance in both height and width.
- Add a recess to the workspace that allows the work area to be all around, not just in front.
- Create workspaces where frequently used tools and consumables, such as screws, nails and glues, can be accessed at no more than arm’s length.
- Store consumables in removable drawer storage containers or add wall-mounted hopper-trays.
- Use a wall-mounted pegboard for keeping frequently used tools close at hand.
- Use easy-grip handles or knobs on all drawers and doors.
- Add grab-rails to the sides and top of workbenches.
- Have a dual powerpoint fitted in a handy location, or you can mount a powerboard on a wall or the benchtop.
- Fit hooks for things such as a dustpan and broom.
- Ensure clear space under and around the bench.
For more DIY projects, pick up a copy of the latest issue of Better Homes and Gardens magazine in selected newsagents and supermarkets or buy online today!
Related stories
Native ad body.
The main things to consider when renovating your garage
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Five garage makeover ideas
