Affordable Dining Benches That Look Far More Expensive

A dining bench does not need to be costly to look refined. The difference between a bench that looks like a compromise and one that looks like a considered design choice comes down to a handful of details. Proportions that match the length and height of your table matter most, followed by visible wood grain or a convincing timber finish, upholstery with depth such as velvet or textured weave, and slim, well finished legs in black, brass or natural wood. Small touches like piping, channel stitching and rounded edges add further polish. In this guide, we explain these five features in detail, explore the bench styles that consistently look refined, from upholstered velvet designs to solid plank benches and backed banquette styles, and share simple styling tricks involving carvers, rugs, textiles and lighting. We also look at where a bench works best in real British homes, including narrow kitchen diners, open plan spaces, bay windows and busy family rooms....