Storage Bench Seating for Kitchens - A Spot to Sit and Stow

Nowadays kitchens are often double as dining and family rooms. This flow between spaces is great for entertaining but can make seating guests a challenge when space is limited. Storage benches provide a versatile solution, offering extra seats as well as clever hideaways to tuck away clutter.

From rustic to modern designs, these multi-functional pieces can be customized to match your personal style and storage needs. Read on to learn how to maximize both seating and organization with a storage bench made for your home.

Types of Kitchen Storage Benches

Entryway Benches

For homes where the kitchen opens into an entryway or mudroom, placing a storage bench by the doorway provides a natural transition into the heart of the home. These benches give you a spot to sit while removing muddy shoes or distributing snacks after school. Look for a design with lift-up seat storage and coat hooks overhead.

Island Benches

Islands can quickly become cluttered with cooking gadgets and appliances. Tuck stools or benches underneath to conceal the mess while adding extra seating for mealtimes. Opt for an open shelf design to neatly store cookbooks, linens and decorative accents.

Window Seats

Incorporate storage under cozy window seats positioned to capture natural light and views. Opt for a bench deep enough to stash larger items. Add plush cushions to create a comfy perch for reading the morning paper over coffee.

Freestanding Benches

For maximum flexibility, choose a freestanding storage bench on wheels or with a lightweight frame. These can easily be pulled up for additional dinner guests or moved to any spot where you need accessible seating. Look for collapsible or folding benches for cramped kitchens.

Materials and Styles

Wood Benches

Benches crafted from solid wood offer timeless appeal and durable construction. Stain or paint wooden benches to coordinate with your existing cabinetry and floors. Look for sleek mid-century modern designs or choose rustic finishes like weathered plank tops and turned legs for a farmhouse feel.

Metal and Wicker Benches

For a lighter look, select a metal or wicker bench with an airy, woven design. Powder-coated steel and aluminum options resist wear while contributing a contemporary vibe. The openness prevents a bulky appearance in smaller kitchens.

Upholstered Benches

Bring warmth and softness to the kitchen with an upholstered storage bench. Tailored box cushions, deep button tufting and luxurious fabrics like velvet add sophistication and elegance. Use slipcovers to easily switch up the look when you redecorate.

Rustic and Farmhouse Benches

Achieve a charming vintage aesthetic with a rustic-inspired storage bench. Weathered wood planks, chippy painted finishes, and floral upholstered cushions exude casual cottage charm. Wrought iron legs and nailhead trim add to the timeworn appeal.

Choosing the Right Storage Bench

Measure Your Space

First, carefully measure the area where you want to place the bench, marking limitations like doorway openings and aisle clearances. This ensures you choose a bench that fits the footprint without impeding traffic. Allow ample leg room under the bench when used for seating.

Assess Your Needs

Consider how you will use the bench to determine the right size, storage type and weight capacity. For dining, choose a design that can comfortably seat the average number of guests at your table. Look for enclosed storage like drawers or cabinets if you'll be stashing valuables.

Complement Your Style

Select a storage bench that enhances your existing decor. For contemporary kitchens, sleek leather or chrome designs add polish. Farmhouse spaces benefit from rough-hewn wood benches with charming vintage styling. Choose a neutral color and silhouette to easily blend with your color palette.

Getting the Most Out of Your Storage Bench

Stashing Kitchen Essentials

Keep cookbooks, baking pans, table linens and other kitchen supplies conveniently at hand but out of sight by dedicating your bench to culinary storage. Utilize organizational inserts to neatly arrange cooking utensils, spices and pantry goods inside the compartments.

Corralling Kids' Items

Contain kids' clutter like coloring books, school folders and water bottles in their own designated bench storage area. Let them decorate the interior with their artwork for a personalized touch. Easily access snacks, games and other amusement to keep children occupied in the kitchen.

Organizing Entryway Clutter

For entryway benches, use the storage to control everyday items that can pile up. Designate compartments for keys, hats, gloves and pet leashes so they have a place right when you walk in the door. The bench top offers a spot to sit while removing muddy shoes kept inside.

With items stored in their proper hidden places, your kitchen will maintain an organized, decluttered feel. When company drops by, simply lift the lid of your handsome storage bench to access extra seating. Your guests will be impressed by how you effortlessly accommodate a crowd, revealing the secret to your always-tidy kitchen!

We hope this overview gets your design wheels turning for how to incorporate the ideal storage bench in your home. Properly selected and styled, they are sure to become a favorite furniture focal point and entertaining asset in your kitchen or dining space. Happy seating and storing!