Choosing Banquette Benches for a 1930s Semi

The 1930s semi is one of the most familiar homes in Britain, and its bay windows, chimney alcoves and generous reception rooms lend themselves beautifully to banquette seating. In this guide we explain where a banquette works best in an interwar house, whether that is the bay of the front or rear reception room, an alcove beside the chimney breast or the wall of a modern kitchen extension. We cover how to handle angled and curved bays, radiators beneath windows, uneven period walls, deep skirting and picture rails, and why airbricks under suspended timber floors must stay clear. You will find advice on choosing a round, oval or rectangular pedestal table, adding a sideboard for storage, lighting the dining area and selecting upholstery that suits the period. We also compare fitted and freestanding banquettes so you can decide which approach fits your plans, your budget and the character of your home....