How to Turn a Salvaged Column Into a Coat Tree

One creative way to repurpose a salvaged column is to turn it into a functional and stylish coat tree. This project not only provides a unique storage solution for your entryway but also serves as a conversation piece that showcases your DIY skills and appreciation for historical architecture.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to complete this project in about two hours.

Salvaged Column Project Overview

When embarking on this project, start with a well-preserved column. For this particular coat tree, a fluted column with detailed design elements was acquired from an antique shop for about $90—a bargain considering its excellent condition. The column’s fluted shaft and egg-and-dart molding on the capital add a touch of formality to an otherwise casual entryway piece.

Before beginning the transformation, preserve the column’s aged finish and protect against potential lead in old paint. Brush the surface with a few coats of clear polyurethane in a matte sheen to seal and protect the existing finish.

Tools You’ll Need

Step-By-Step Guide to Building the Coat Tree

To transform the column into a coat tree, you’ll need to add hooks and construct a new plinth base to replace the missing original. Rather than building the base from scratch, this project uses prefab wood boxes stacked beneath a round plaque secured to the bottom of the column’s shaft. This approach saves time and effort while still achieving a polished look.

Step 1: Cover the End of the Column Shaft

Begin by covering the hollow end of the column shaft with a round wood plaque. To secure the plaque:

1. Select a round wood plaque that fits the diameter of your column shaft.
2. Drill pilot holes through the plaque, making sure they’re deep enough to penetrate the column’s solid sides.
3. Secure the plaque to the column using 2-inch wood screws.
4. Double-check that the plaque is firmly attached and level.

Step 2: Attach the First Box

The base of your coat tree will consist of three stacked boxes, increasing in size from top to bottom. Start with the smallest box:

1. Center the 8-inch square box on the plaque, with the open side facing down.
2. Use painter’s tape to hold the box in place temporarily.
3. Fasten the box to the plaque using 1⅝-inch wood screws without needing pilot holes.
4. Check that the box is securely attached and perfectly centered on the plaque.

Step 3: Mark the Second Box

Proper alignment is key when stacking the boxes. To mark the placement for the second box:

1. Place the 10-inch square box open-side down on your work surface.
2. Use a combination square set to 1 inch (half the difference between box sizes) and a pencil to mark the outline of the already attached box.
3. These marks will guide you in centering the second box on top of the first.

Step 4: Mark the Box for Fasteners

To securely fasten the boxes together:

1. Flip the second box open-side up.
2. Use a wood spacer (in this case, ⅝ inch thick) as a guide to mark where to drill holes for the fasteners.
3. This step makes sure that the screws will be positioned in the center of the frame of the box above.
4. Mark all four sides of the box for even and secure attachment.

Step 5: Secure the Second Box

With your marks in place, it’s time to attach the second and third boxes:

1. Apply wood glue to the top of the first box where the second box will sit.
2. Place the second box on top, aligning it with your marks.
3. Secure the second box with screws at your marked points.
4. Repeat the process with the third 12-inch square box to complete the base.
5. Allow the glue to dry for about 30 minutes before proceeding.

Step 6: Map Out the Hook Placement

Proper hook placement helps your coat tree be both functional and visually pleasing:

1. Wrap a piece of tape around the column to measure its circumference.
2. Remove the tape and divide its length by 3 to determine even spacing for the top row of hooks.
3. Mark these divisions on the tape.
4. Reapply the tape to the column, using the marks as a guide for hook placement.
5. Pay attention to the height of the hooks, checking that they’re at a comfortable reach for users.

Step 7: Hang the Hooks

With your placement mapped out, it’s time to install the hooks:

1. Drill pilot holes for the screws that come with your chosen hooks.
2. Use a screwdriver to turn the screws in by hand, avoiding power tools to prevent stripping the soft metal of the hooks.
3. Install the top row of three hooks according to your marks.
4. Repeat the measuring and installation process for the second row of hooks, offsetting them from the row above for better spacing and functionality.
5. Check that all hooks are securely fastened and leveled.

Step 8: Paint the Base

The final step is to paint the base to complement your column:

1. Choose a paint color that complements the column’s existing finish. In this case, a watered-down chalk paint in eggshell blue was used to match traces of old chipped paint on the column shaft.
2. Apply the paint evenly to the base, using light coats to build up the color as needed.
3. Allow the paint to dry completely before moving or using the coat tree.
4. Once dry, position your new coat tree in the entryway and start enjoying its functionality and beauty.

Additional Considerations

When repurposing a salvaged column into a coat tree, think about these additional tips:

• Choose hooks that complement the style of your column. Antique reproductions in various styles and finishes can be found at specialty hardware stores.
• If your column is particularly tall, you may want to add a third row of hooks at a lower height for children or shorter items.
• Think about adding a small shelf or tray to the base for keys, mail, or other small items often needed near the entryway.

Coat Tree Maintenance and Care

To keep your salvaged column coat tree looking its best, dust it regularly with a soft, dry cloth to prevent buildup on the column and hooks. If the polyurethane coating on the column begins to wear, reapply to protect the finish.

Periodically check and tighten the hooks, and touch up the paint on the base as needed to maintain its appearance.