Simona is an interior design and décor writer for Homedit. Since 2011, she has been writing about interior design, DIY solutions, and the latest trends in home architecture.
Compared to the usual table and chair configuration, a dining table with bench seating seems a bit odd and unusual. But before you dismiss the idea, consider the advantages and all the unique features that come with it. For instance, a bench can be perceived as being more comfortable by a lot of people because of the simple fact that it seats more people closer together, allowing them to interact.
A bench can also be more practical than a set of chairs if, let’s say, you have an oval table and you decide to complement it with a curved seat. Usually, when furnishing a dining space, we get a table and we immediately think to put some chairs around it. But just because this option is so common doesn’t necessarily mean it’s also the best one for every type of space and decor. In fact, sometimes too many individual chairs can make a space look cluttered and smaller and a much better option is to have banquette seating instead.
As it turns out, benches offer multiple advantages. For instance, they can make a space feel more casual by bringing everyone closer together and favoring the interaction between those seated at the table. It’s what a round table top does but in a different version. A dining table with bench seats can also create a more comfortable and intimate ambiance and decor.
Another detail to take into consideration when choosing between chairs and benches is the fact that a bench can also include some storage under its seat. In some cases that can come in very handy, especially if the space is small and storage is a general issue. Kitchen bench seating and breakfast nooks are usually known to include built-in storage.
A bench can also help highlight the elongated form of a rectangular dining table or its size. Benches can also turn out to be better for corner spaces, offering more seating room than one or two chairs would. You can also a bench to delineate the dining space in the case of an open floor plan that also includes the kitchen or the living area. Another advantage is the fact that there’s no predefined number of seats in the case of a bench so when you set the table you can include as many plates as you want as long as everyone can fit around the table.