Few pieces of furniture work harder—or look chicer—than a well-placed bench. “Over the years, I’ve found myself reaching for them in design plans again and again—not just because they’re practical, but because they add that quiet detail that makes a room feel lived-in and intentional,” says Lisa Graham, the founder of Laurel Alexander Interiors. "The thoughtful fabric details, craftsmanship, and scale make them incredibly easy to work into real homes, especially if you’re dealing with limited square footage or want a flexible, design-forward piece,” Graham says of the new collection.
If you've wondered how to best integrate a bench into your entryway, landing, bedroom, living room, and beyond, keep reading!
Entryways
Benches in the entryway are a no-brainer when space allows. In shoe-free homes, designer Dawn Hearn, the founder of Dawn Hearn Interior Design, loves the practicality of a bench: a spot to sit while slipping shoes on or off, with storage below for easy stashing.
Fill the wall space above the bench by hanging up some hooks, where you can hang up keys, small bags, and the like, Hearn suggests. “If the room calls for an elevated look, adding art over the bench, an adjacent floor lamp, and a rug to anchor the whole grouping would look very polished and pulled together,” she adds.
Landings
Not sure how to best fill a landing? Try adding a bench! “I love using a bench at the bottom or top of staircases or on a stair landing when space allows,” says Courtney Aleksa, the founder of Courtney Aleksa Interior Design.
“What could typically be considered dead space is now an opportunity to make a design statement with shape, pattern, color, and texture.”
Living Rooms
Forget bulky accent chairs—designers say a bench can deliver seating and style while keeping the living room feeling open and airy. You could also try a bench in front of built-in bookshelves, Graham suggests. “It encourages people to sit, pause, and enjoy the room, while layering in softness and structure,” she says, citing the Celeste Bench as her top pick for this spot.
Bedrooms
In the bedroom, try a classic end of bed bench. You may wish to opt for a bench that is covered in the same fabric as is on your bed so that the piece will serve as a seamless extension, Sullivan suggests. Benches make it easy to lace up your shoes or lay out an outfit for the morning.
Benches aren’t just for adults’ bedrooms, though. Place one in your child’s room, too. Meacham says, “It can be used as a cozy homework station, loungy reading space, or as a small sleeping space for sleepovers!”
Bathrooms
A bench in the bathroom? Why not! “Styled alongside freestanding tubs to hold towels, candles, or a tray with bath essentials brings a warmth and texture that you don’t often find in hard-surfaced rooms,” Graham says, adding that she’d select the Scarlett Bench for the job.
Ready to bring this designer-loved essential home? Explore our collection of customizable benches—tailored for every room and every style.
