Depending on the year of your Jeep you might need to remove the stock side plastic. When you do this you will have exposed metal and a lack of carpet on Jeeps 2011-newer. The side cubbies will cover this bare metal/unfinished look. If you have a 2007-2010 your fully carpeted fenders will look fine. As far as storage goes. I store a complete rain jacket/pants, wool underwear top and bottom, puffy jacket and a wool hat in one of the cubbies. The other side has a 2” tall Sea to Summit inflatable mattress, extra large microfiber towel, several shower pouches and room for more. Unless you are an avid woodworker and have access to a good guy deal at LineX. You would be hard pressed to build the baseplate for less money. If you count your time as money.
just my 2 cents.
Check my Instagram for Jeep shots if you need ideas
Justin