Adding a Bench to Your Space

Adding a Bench to Your Space
A hand crafted bench adds an element of grandeur to this home entry. Handout/TNS
Tribune News Service
Updated:
By Cathy Hobbs From Tribune News Service

Looking for extra seating for a living space or to add a finishing touch to a bedroom? Why not consider adding a bench? Benches can provide both function and aesthetics to nearly any space.

From custom upholstery to millwork and those of different sizes, shapes and fabrics, benches can serve as the ideal accompaniment to nearly any room of the home.

Looking for opportunities to incorporate a bench into your space? Here are some do’s and don’ts.

Do’s

Do use a bench in an entry area. A bench can provide both function as well as an aesthetic design element to highlight an entry area.

Do consider adding a bench as an additional seating element in a social area, such as a living or family room. Benches can especially work well in areas in which the desire is to not obscure or obstruct a view.

A bench helps to both frame this living space and provide additional seating. (Handout/TNS)
A bench helps to both frame this living space and provide additional seating. Handout/TNS

Do consider a pair of benches areas where flexibility or having modular elements is a consideration.

A faux fur bench adds a surprise element of texture to this bedroom. (Handout/TNS)
A faux fur bench adds a surprise element of texture to this bedroom. Handout/TNS

Don’ts

Don’t place benches in areas where they can obstruct room flow, windows or doorways.

Don’t compete with current furnishings. Choose a bench in a material or finish that is complementary to existing décor.

A velvet bench adds a finishing touch of elegance to this bedroom. (Handout/TNS)
A velvet bench adds a finishing touch of elegance to this bedroom. Handout/TNS

Don’t ignore the opportunity to create custom sized or produced benches to provide seating opportunities for odd sized or shaped areas or spaces.

A long bench helps to add an industrial vibe to a loft space. (Handout/TNS)
A long bench helps to add an industrial vibe to a loft space. Handout/TNS
Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. Contact her at [email protected] or visit her website at cathyhobbs.com.
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