Add Storage and Style with These Living Room Bench Seating Ideas

Looking to add extra seating to your living room in a stylish, multifunctional way? Consider incorporating a bench! Benches are a great option for open floor plans and smaller spaces that need flexible seating solutions. Plus, many benches provide discreet storage to help keep clutter at bay. Read on for a complete guide to picking and styling the perfect living room bench.

Popular Types of Living Room Benches

From vintage charm to modern chic, there are living room benches to match any style. Here are some of the most popular options:

Upholstered Benches

A velvet or linen upholstered bench lends comfort along with vintage flair. The padded cushion and luxe fabric add softness to minimalist decor. Ornate turned legs provide an elegant touch. However, upholstered benches can show wear over time. Protect delicate fabrics from sunlight to avoid fading.

Wooden Benches

Handcrafted wood benches impart natural warmth. Rustic styles like acacia wood or reclaimed barnwood add texture. Streamlined oak and teak designs provide a lighter look. Look for corner-blocked joinery for strength. Since wood is prone to nicks and scratches, avoid sharp objects on the bench surface.

Storage Benches

Storage benches maximize function. Look for lift-top lids, drawers, and open shelving to organize items. Use baskets to corral smaller objects. Storage benches work well at the foot of beds or in entryways. Ensure the bench is sturdy enough to handle weight when loaded up.

Entryway Benches

An entryway bench provides convenient seating to take off shoes. It can also hold umbrellas, store pet supplies, or organize household items. Use a narrow bench to maximize a small foyer. Add hooks above to hang jackets and bags. Just be sure to measure the space to find a well-fitting size.

Smart Ways to Use a Living Room Bench

From building custom storage to anchoring a seating area, utilize a living room bench in clever ways.

Multi-functional Design

Look for benches designed to multitask. Some feature pull-out drawers to hold remotes or blankets. Others have built-in charging stations to power devices. Upholstered seat cushions that lift up reveal hidden storage areas. Maximize function and minimize clutter.

Create a Focal Point

Make a bold bench the focal point of your living room. A bright color like emerald green or vibrant pattern acts as an eye-catching accent. The unique bench will draw guests in and get conversations flowing. Just be sure the rest of the decor is relatively simple to avoid an overly busy feel.

Incorporate Lighting

Proper illumination prevents a bench seating area from feeling dark and cave-like. Position a sleek floor lamp or brass sconce beside or behind the bench. Table lamps on side tables also cast ample lighting. LED strip lights add a fun, modern glow.

Mix and Match Styles

For lots of character, combine two complementary bench styles. A tufted upholstered bench adds softness alongside a sleek metal and wood bench. The mix of modern and vintage makes a statement. Just look for colors and materials that coordinate.

Utilize Under-Bench Space

Take advantage of the empty space under benches. A rolling ottoman or stowaway cube stool tucks neatly underneath for extra seating. Or install permanent built-in drawers under a custom bench for discreet storage. Hide toys, pet supplies or electronics inside.

Styling Your Living Room Bench

With the right accessories and placement, your bench will be both stylish and functional.

Use Accessories

Liven up a bench using pillows, throws and rugs. Vibrant pillows in complementary colors provide comfort and style. Cozy woven throws invite curling up with a book. Area rugs anchor the furniture and add visual interest. Mix patterns and textures for lots of depth.

Mind the Layout

Spotlight your bench by placing it prominently in your living room. Positioning it in front of a window or underneath artwork draws the eye. Visitors will naturally gravitate toward the accent piece. Just maintain enough space to comfortably walk around it.

Pair with Other Furniture

Keep your bench looking neat and pulled together by pairing it with coffee tables, side tables, ottomans and chairs. An anchor coffee table grounds the arrangement. Side tables provide surface space for lamps and decor. Ottomans can slide underneath the bench when not in use. Repeat colors from the bench in the other pieces for cohesion.

Get Inspired By These Living Room Bench Ideas

Statement Upholstery

Make a bold statement with eye-catching upholstery. Try a vibrant emerald or sapphire tone, glossy velvet, or vibrant graphic print. The bench will be the shining star.

Rustic Wood

A reclaimed wood bench adds natural charm to both rustic and modern spaces. Try matching barnwood walls and trim for a cohesive aesthetic. Add woven textiles for contrast.

Built-In Window Bench

Custom built-in benches maximize unused areas beneath windows. Built-in storage compartments keep items organized but out of sight. For easy access, ensure the bench depth accommodates your height.

Modern and Edgy

Industrial pipe legs add sculptural appeal to a sleek wood bench. The metal provides an edgy counterpoint to clean lines. A soft pelt rug underneath prevents a harsh vibe.

Centered Behind Sofa

Placing a bench centered behind a sofa creates a clear focal point in open floor plans. Floating the furniture away from walls keeps the layout light and airy. Add an area rug to define the space.

The right bench can pull double duty as seating and storage in living rooms. Maximize small spaces by placing benches below windows or behind sofas. Include handy built-ins like charging stations and hidden drawers. Select complementary accessories to amp up the style. With the limitless possibilities, you're sure to find the ideal bench to suit your needs and aesthetic!