Benches are some of the most versatile furniture pieces for the home. Commonly used for extra seating or as a decorative accent, benches can be utilized in nearly every space – from the entryway to the bedroom to the living room.

Available in a variety of styles and sizes, finding a bench that best fits your needs and decor depends on the purpose it will serve. We've compiled a list of tips that’ll help you choose the right bench for your home, no matter how you decide to use them.

1. Choose the Right Bench Design

First, you’ll want to determine where you’d like to place your bench and how you’d like to use it. Will it go in your living room and store extra throw blankets and board games? Or would you rather have one that cozies up your dining nook? The versatile design makes the opportunities endless.

Storage: Doubling as additional storage space and a comfortable place to sit, storage benches are versatile accent pieces. Accessible in a range of sizes and styles, storage benches are utilized best in an entryway, living room, or bedroom. Read more about the available storage options below.

Bedroom: Typically upholstered, bedroom benches are placed at the end of the bed. Not only do they add aesthetic appeal, these benches can provide a spot to sit while getting ready for bed, store extra bedding, or fold clothes before putting them away.

Dining: Whether you’re an avid entertainer or simply want to maximize your dining area, a dining bench takes up the same amount of space as dining chairs but can fit more people – making it a great way to squeeze in extra seating. Plus, the benches can be tucked beneath the table when not in use to save some additional room.

Entryway: Sometimes made of wood, sometimes upholstered, entryway benches typically have extra storage space for bags, shoes, hats, and gloves so you keep your essentials near the door. The biggest benefit of entryway benches is that they provide you and your guests a place to sit while removing footwear or jackets.

Tip!

Benches are also great for outdoor spaces. From your porch to patio, these benches are designed with weatherproof materials and durable construction to withstand the elements.

2. Find the Best Bench Material

Benches come in a variety of materials, allowing you to choose one that matches your style and meets your needs. Here are the four most common options.

Wood: Wood benches are durable and versatile, making them a popular choice for dining rooms. Wood benches come in plenty of different finishes – from light oak for a more farmhouse feel or a deep mahogany for a traditional-style space.

Upholstered: With extra cushion and a soft finish, upholstered benches are great for bedrooms, living spaces, and home offices. From leather to velvet, there are nearly endless upholstery materials to complete your space.

Metal: Sturdy and low maintenance, these benches offer a stylish combination of sleek metal legs and an upholstered seat for added comfort. Depending on the metallic finish, metal benches can lean industrial, rustic, or glam.

Wicker: Wicker benches add a natural feel to any space with their unique woven construction and neutral hue. The textured look pairs well with coastal, boho, and traditional design styles.

Tip!

Check out our guide What Is the Standard Bench Height? And Other Bench Dimensions to Know for simple tips on getting the perfect size.

3. Consider Your Personal Style

You should keep your style in mind while browsing for benches. Luckily, most benches can do double duty and blend in with a variety of styles.

Modern: If you prefer sleek lines and streamlined materials, modern benches deliver. These benches may have minimalistic silhouettes, Scandi influences, or sculptural shapes that set them apart.

Rustic: Rustic benches are often characterized by rugged materials like aged metal, reclaimed wood, or distressed leather – bringing a bit of a nature indoors.

Mid-Century Modern: Mid-century modern benches have a retrofuturistic yet approachable feel. Think tapered legs, fuss-free wood finishes, and simple upholstery in neutral or retro hues.

Farmhouse: Laid-back and lived-in, farmhouse benches are most likely to feature natural wood or painted finishes, simply patterned upholstery, and soft neutral colors.

Boho: “More is more” rings true for boho benches. These benches may have ornate carvings, rattan details, and boldly patterned cushions to match the free-spirited vibe of your space.

Coastal: These benches bring sea-inspired style to your space. Whether you opt for white-washed wood for a nautical feel or pick woven rattan to create a beachy look, coastal benches add to the airy atmosphere.

4. Look at Helpful Storage Features

Flip-Top: These benches feature a hinged top that swings open for easy access. The multipurpose design cleverly disguises the hidden storage within close reach, allowing you to double up on storage and seating.

Cabinet: Benches with cabinets are ideal for spots where you’d like to optimize seating and storage, such as an entryway or closet. The doors conceal any clutter and improve your organizational approach.

Drawer: Drawer storage is great for storing smaller items like cold weather accessories or pet essentials near the door.

Shelves: Open shelving makes it easy to grab what you need on your way in or out the door. The shelves are great for organizing shoes or paired with baskets to corral smaller items.

Shoe Storage: Cut down on the number of stray shoes in your entryway with built-in shoe storage. These benches include shelves, cabinets, or cubbies so that your shoe collection stays neatly out of the way.

Cubby: From small shoe-sized slots to spacious cube storage, benches with cubbies provide plenty of room to meet your organizational goals.

Tip!

Read our guide Bench Uses for Every Room in Your Home for tips on styling your bench.

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