If you’re in the process of choosing new dining room furniture, then you have likely seen dining room benches and perhaps wondered if they were a good choice. Indeed, a dining bench is a remarkably simple, yet effective way to update the look and feel of your dining space. Once you have tried out one of today’s comfortable dining benches, you may just wonder why you didn’t get one sooner. Whether you are furnishing a casual kitchen-diner or a fancy formal dining room, there are many dining bench options to choose from to create the space that you want.
Benefits of Dining Benches
When it comes to modern dining room furniture, benches are replacing chairs in surprising numbers. Besides looking stylish and attractive, benches have some practical advantages over traditional seating as well. Here are some of the specific benefits of choosing dining benches over chairs.
- More seating. If you have a large family or like to entertain often, bench seating can provide you with the extra capacity you need in your dining room. Whereas chairs are limited to one person each, a bench can easily hold two or more people.
- Better connection. When people sit side-by-side on a bench, they feel closer and more comfortable, and interaction is better. Bench seating promotes communication and intimacy and provides a cozier atmosphere for socializing.
- Extra storage space. Some benches feature a handy storage compartment under a lift-up seat or on pull-out shelves. These benches provide a great place to stash cloth napkins, candles, or anything special you might want to use to create a festive table.
- Minimalist design. Benches can create a cleaner, neater appearance in your dining room. They allow you to seat more people on fewer pieces of furniture, reducing clutter and helping you maintain a more visually pleasing space.
- A clear view. If you’ve positioned your dining room table in front of a window that has a beautiful view, a bench instead of chairs can keep the space in front of the window clear and allow you to enjoy your view to the fullest.
- A cost-effective choice. One bench can cost less than multiple chairs. Especially when you consider that it can provide extra seating, storage space, and a great design feature all in one, it’s easy to see that you can save money by choosing this option.
Types of Dining Benches
There are several styles and sizes of dining benches to suit a wide variety of spaces. It’s important to consider the space itself before choosing a bench. For example, how much room do you have? How long is the space? If you want a bench with a backrest, how high can it be without getting in the way of any paneling or artwork in the area? Is there enough space between the table and the wall that everyone will be able to get to their seat easily? Keeping your specific space in mind, consider your dining bench options:
- Full-length benches. A full-length dining bench is, as the name suggests, the full length of your table. This type of seat is an excellent choice if you have a pedestal-style table because you can tuck the bench neatly under the table without the table’s legs getting in the way.
- Tucked-in benches. If your table is the type with legs at all four corners, then you’ll want a bench that will tuck completely under the table between the table’s legs (with enough clearance that the bench does not bump the legs every time you tuck it in).
- Corner benches. Corner dining benches work well with tables positioned near a corner of the room (or in a smaller room) and for people who entertain a lot. Be sure when choosing a corner bench that there is plenty of room for people to access it and sit comfortably.
- Benches with backrests. A bench with a straight back can have a simple, clean look and help create a pleasing visual impact in your dining room. Benches with backs also allow you to squeeze an extra person or two in and can make seating more comfortable no matter how many people you entertain.
What to Consider When Buying a Dining Room Bench
When you’re ready to pick out bench seating for your dining room, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure that you end up with a piece that works well in your space and that you and your family and guests will enjoy for years to come. Here are some things to keep in mind as you shop.
- Your dining room. Again, be sure to measure your space to ensure that the bench you’re choosing will fit comfortably. Also, consider your existing décor and the type of dining bench that will coordinate well with the colors and style you already have in your home.
- The size of your table. Don’t forget to measure your table – including the space between the legs, if the legs are at the corners of the table. Make sure that your bench will fit easily and tuck under when not in use.
- The size of the bench. Choosing the right bench is a balancing act between one that will seat enough people and one that will fit properly into your space. Keep in mind that not only should your bench be the right length, but it should also be the right height from floor to seat to allow enough leg space between seat and table.
- The style and appearance of the bench. There are many different styles to choose from, so finding one that suits your personal preference and needs should be a breeze. Also, consider the material – for example, a padded and upholstered bench will have a luxurious look, while a simple wooden seat will be easier to clean.
Regardless of what you want in a bench, you can find it at Home Zone. We have many comfortable dining benches in a range of colors and styles, as well as a wide range of furniture pieces for your dining room, living room, bedroom, and more.
