10 Surprising Spots to Add a Bench in Your Home

Are you tired of the same old furniture layout in your home? It can be easy to get stuck in a rut when it comes to decorating and organizing your space, but sometimes all it takes is a little creativity to shake things up.

One piece of furniture that is often overlooked is the humble bench. It may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about home decor, but adding a bench to your space can add not only functionality but also a unique touch to your home.

In this blog, we’ll explore 10 unexpected places to put benches in your home. From the entryway to the outdoor living space, there are plenty of opportunities to incorporate a bench in a new and innovative way.

So let’s get creative and see how a bench can add both function and style to any room in your home.

Creative Ways to Use Benches as Home Decor

1. Entryway

An entryway is a prime location for a bench, as it serves as a functional and welcoming element in the home. A bench in the entryway provides a convenient spot for people to sit and put on or take off their shoes, as well as a place to store them. It can also be a great spot to drop bags, keys, and other items as you come and go. If you have a smaller entryway, opt for a bench with built-in storage, such as drawers or baskets, to make the most of the space. If you have a larger entryway, you can choose a more decorative bench to make a statement and set the tone for the rest of the house.

2. Living Room

A bench in the living room can serve multiple purposes, making it a versatile and useful addition to the space. It can be a comfortable and stylish seating option for guests, as well as a place to rest books, magazines, and other items. In a larger living room, a bench can be used to define a specific area or create a sense of separation between different zones. For example, you could use a bench to define a reading nook or to create a cozy conversation area. In a smaller living room, a bench can be a space-saving alternative to a traditional sofa or armchair. It can also be a great option for a home with young children, as it is often more durable and easier to clean than upholstered furniture.

3. Beneath a Window

Beneath a window is an unexpected yet highly functional place to put a bench in the house. Not only does it provide a comfortable and convenient spot to sit and take in the views outside, but it can also serve as additional storage space. For example, you could place a bench beneath a bay window in the living room and use it to store blankets, pillows, and other cozy accents. In a bedroom, a bench beneath a window can be a great spot to sit and get dressed in the morning or to put on shoes. It can also be a perfect place to sit and read or relax and enjoy the natural light streaming in through the window.

4. Bedroom

It can be a great spot to sit and get dressed in the morning or to put on shoes before heading out. In a larger bedroom, a bench can be used as a decorative element to add interest and character to the space. It can also be a great place to store extra blankets, pillows, or other bedroom essentials. In a smaller bedroom, a bench can serve as a space-saving alternative to a traditional dresser or armchair. It can also be a great option for a bedroom with limited closet space, as it can provide additional storage for clothes, shoes, and other items.

5. At the Foot of the Bed

Placing a bench at the foot of the bed is a stylish and functional way to utilize often-underused space in the bedroom. In a smaller bedroom, a bench at the foot of the bed can be a space-saving alternative to a traditional bench or armchair. It can also serve as additional storage for blankets, pillows, and other bedroom essentials. It can also be a great spot to sit and read or relax before bed. When selecting a bench for this location, be sure to consider the size and style of the bed and the bedroom, as well as the intended use.

6. Kitchen

It’s a simple and stylish way to add extra seating, and it can even double as a makeshift dining table when you have a larger group of people over. Plus, it’s a great way to save space in a small kitchen; you can place cookbooks, magazines, and other items. A bench can add a touch of rustic charm to a farmhouse-style kitchen, or it can bring a modern, minimalistic look to a more contemporary space. Finally, don’t forget about comfort. You’ll want to find a bench with a cushioned seat and backrest, so you can sit and eat in comfort. And if you have kids, you might want to consider a bench with a built-in storage area, so you can keep toys and games out of sight.

7. Dining Room

Benches can add a unique and stylish touch to a dining room. They come in a wide range of styles, from modern to traditional, and can be used to add visual interest to the space. A bench takes up less space than individual chairs, making it a great option for smaller dining rooms or apartments. Benches are often more affordable than individual chairs, making them a budget-friendly option for furnishing a dining room. It can also provide additional seating for larger gatherings and can be more comfortable for longer periods of sitting. In a smaller dining room, a bench can be a space-saving alternative to multiple chairs, allowing you to maximize the space you have available. 

8. Home Office

While a desk and chair are essential for getting work done, sometimes you need a change of scenery (and seating). That’s where a bench comes in! Placing a bench in your home office can add a touch of comfort and style to your workspace. It provides a cozy spot to take a break and stretch your legs and can also serve as a functional piece of furniture for storing books, bags, or other office supplies. If you have limited space, a corner or nook may be the best place to tuck it away. Or, if you have a little more room to play with, consider placing it near a window for some natural light and a view.

9. In the Closet

It might seem like a strange idea at first. But trust me, it’s a game changer. Placing a bench in a closet can have several benefits, including providing a convenient and comfortable place to sit while getting dressed or putting on shoes, serving as a storage solution for items such as bags and shoes, and serving as a decorative element that can enhance the overall aesthetic of the closet. It can also be a great spot to sit and plan out your outfits for the week or to do a quick makeup or hair touch-up. You can use pillows or blankets to add extra comfort or baskets or bins underneath the bench for even more storage.

10. In the Outdoor Living Space

A bench in the outdoor living space, such as a patio or deck, can be a comfortable and functional addition to the area. It can provide a spot to sit and enjoy the outdoors and a place to rest books, magazines, and other items. For example, you could use a bench to define a seating area or to create a cozy conversation space. A bench can be a space-saving alternative to multiple chairs or a full sofa in a smaller outdoor living space. It’s also important to consider the material of the bench, as it will be exposed to harsh weather conditions. A bench made of weather-resistant materials, such as teak or metal, will be more durable and last longer.

Types of Benches

When it comes to choosing a bench for your home, there are many different options to consider. From materials to style, there’s a bench for every aesthetic and need. Here are a few different types of benches to consider:

• Wooden Benches: These classic benches are a versatile choice for any space. They can be rustic or refined, depending on the finish and style. Wooden benches are often made from solid woods like oak or pine and can be stained or painted to match your home’s decor.
• Metal Benches: If you’re looking for a more modern or industrial look, metal benches may be the way to go. These benches can be made from various metals, such as steel or aluminum, and can be finished in multiple colors. In addition, metal benches are often sleek and minimalist, making them an excellent choice for contemporary spaces.
• Storage Benches: If you need extra storage in your home, a storage bench might be the perfect solution. These benches typically have a hinged lid that opens to reveal a spacious interior, perfect for storing items like blankets, pillows, or outdoor gear.
• Upholstered Benches: An upholstered bench might be the right choice for a softer, more comfortable seating option. These benches are often padded and covered in fabric, making them ideal for living rooms or bedrooms. Upholstered benches can come in many styles, from traditional tufted designs to more modern, sleek options.
• Outdoor Benches: Wooden and metal benches are both popular choices for outdoor use, but you can also find benches made from materials like recycled plastic or weather-res

Wrapping Up

There are many unexpected places in the house where a bench can be a functional and stylish addition. From beneath a window to the entryway, living room, bedroom, kitchen, and even closet, a bench can serve multiple purposes and add character to various spaces.

When selecting a bench, be sure to consider the size and style of the space, as well as the intended use. For example, a bench with a backrest and cushions can be more comfortable for longer periods of sitting. In contrast, a bench with a more minimal design may be better suited for a modern or contemporary space.

Overall, a bench can be a unique and practical way to utilize often-underused space in the home.