11 Ways to Use Dining Benches

Dining benches offer a convenient and versatile seating arrangement in your dining room. Benches can be tucked away more easily when not in use, and provide ample extra seating for guests or larger families. They can also add to the aesthetic of your dining room, by offering a more rustic, industrial or casual feel. 

Not only are dining benches ideal for your dining table but these incredibly versatile pieces of furniture can also be used in a variety of creative ways throughout your home. 

Whether you want to repurpose an existing dining bench or find a unique way to maximise space and functionality, consider these alternative uses for dining benches.

Living Room Coffee Table

Transform your living room by using a dining bench as a coffee table. Its long, low profile is perfect for holding books, trays, and decorative items. This can be particularly useful for longer sofas, where there isn’t room for smaller end tables, as everyone can have space to rest their coffee cups! This setup can also create a more open and airy feel compared to traditional coffee tables. 

Pictured: Nasan Tan Leather Upholstered Bench

Entryway Seating

One of the most practical places to use a dining bench is in the entryway. It provides a convenient spot for putting on or taking off shoes, which can be particularly useful if you have children or frequently entertain guests. Enhance the functionality by placing storage baskets underneath the bench to organise shoes, umbrellas, or other outdoor accessories.

Bedroom End-of-Bed Bench

Placing a bench at the foot of your bed can add both style and functionality to your bedroom. It provides a place to lay out clothes, store extra blankets, or sit while getting dressed. This small addition can make your bedroom feel more luxurious and organised.

Pictured: Bloomingville Luie Acacia Wood Bench

Hallway Decor

Hallways often have unused space that can be beautifully filled with a dining bench. This addition can create a visually appealing area, especially when decorated with cushions, throws, or artwork above it. It can turn a mundane hallway into a cosy and inviting space.

Bathroom Storage

In a large bathroom, a bench can serve multiple purposes. It provides a place to sit while drying off, lay out towels and toiletries, or store extra items in baskets underneath. This multifunctional piece can help keep your bathroom tidy and organised.

Pictured: Bloomingville Sole Bamboo Bench Seat

Outdoor Seating

Dining benches are also perfect for outdoor use. Place one on your porch, patio, or in the garden to offer extra seating for guests or a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. You can also use it to display potted plants and other outdoor decor, adding a touch of charm to your outdoor space.

Kid’s Playroom

A dining bench can be a versatile addition to a kid’s playroom. It offers seating, a play surface, or storage space for toys and books. This can help keep the playroom organised and provide a designated area for various activities. Multi-purpose furniture like a bench ensures there is more space for play!

Pictured: Dutchbone Alagon Wooden Dining Bench

Reading Nook

Create a cosy reading nook by placing a bench near a window or bookshelf. Add some soft cushions and a throw blanket to make it a comfortable spot for reading and relaxation. This setup can quickly become a favourite retreat in your home.

Closet Seating

In a walk-in wardrobe, a bench provides a practical spot to sit while selecting or putting on clothes and shoes. It can also add a touch of elegance to your closet, making it feel like a personal boutique.

Window Seat

Placing a bench beneath a window is an easy way to create a window seat. Add cushions and pillows for a comfortable seating area where you can relax and enjoy the view. This can also create a charming focal point in any room.

Pet Station

Finally, consider using a bench as a pet station. It can be a designated area where you keep pet beds, supplies and toys organised and accessible. This setup helps keep your pet’s items contained and your home clutter-free.

By thinking creatively, you can repurpose dining benches in various rooms of your home to enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Whether used for storage, seating, or decor, dining benches can be a versatile and stylish addition to any space.