Dining Bench Warnings – 5 Things to Watch Out For

 

When it comes to the dining room there are many different ways to approach the furniture layout. The shape of the dining table invariably influences the seating type used to surround it – chairs, benches, or a combination of the two.

Dining benches have started to become a sought-after option for many homeowners because of the casual and laid back look it creates. A member of my Facebook GroupInterior Design: Ask Everything – asked about how they could incorporate a “dining sofa”, or a bench with a back to it. This would help to create a banquette style seating but within an actual dining room space, instead of being installed up to a wall or partition.

With this increase in popularity over dining benches (and now dining sofas!) I thought it were only right to share my thoughts and warnings on this and how you can overcome some of the key considerations.

Here are some Dining Bench Warnings – 5 Things to Watch Out For if you’re considering a dining bench in your home!

Sherwin Williams Forever Green paint color

1. Seating Heights

 

The first thing to be aware of is seating heights. Specifically, the difference between seating heights.

The seat height of sofas are different (often lower) than dining benches, dining chairs, and dining banquettes. So it’s important to consider this when shopping for a dining bench or sofa for the dining table.

2. Nominal Variances – Be Consistent

 

Even within dining height seating, there are nominal variances in height. 

It’s important to make sure the seat height is all the same and the cushion density is similar between pieces used around the table. This will ensure visually all the seating looks in proportion (and of similar heights) and that when people move from seat to seat, the height barely changes.

The bottom line? Make sure your seat heights are the same throughout the seating used. If you need to make one piece higher than the other, consider using a seat cushion that doubles up as extra decor to the space.

3. Optimal Heights

 

While we’re on the subject of heights, there should be approximately 12” between the table and the seat height for optimum comfort. Where possible, ensure this 12” is across all dining seating.

4. Overhangs

 

When it comes to adding a dining banquette or bench to a dining space, you should consider the overhang of the dining table.

Typically the dining table should overhang the dining banquette by 6” (in an overhead plan view) for comfort and ergonomics. This should allow people to slide in easily to their seat.

5. Table Legs

 

Lastly, the table legs.

This is something that often gets overlooked when furniture shopping! But a critical one to consider for dining furniture.

Watch out for the dining table legs and base. It’s important to make sure they won’t be in the way when someone is sliding into the bench area. For this reason, a central table base works best for dining benches.

Expert Design Services

If you’re looking for thoughtful interior design within your home, we’re ready to help. You can expect thoughtful design that is custom tailored to your needs. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you are contemplating a project.

Personalize Your Space

Would you like a professional interior designer to pull your space together? Contact us for in person interior design services in the Chicagoland area or virtual interior design services anywhere in the world.