Dining Room Style with L Shaped Benches at the Table

Dining tables paired with L shaped benches create a relaxed and stylish dining space. These versatile benches provide flexible, informal seating and complement a variety of decor styles. With the right design, dimensions, and placement, an L shaped dining bench can become a focal point in your dining room or kitchen.

We'll also cover important construction qualities, materials, and designer inspriation to create a dining area with comfort, function, and flair.

Reasons to Use an L Shaped Dining Bench

L shaped dining benches offer a number of advantages over traditional dining chairs:

• Adds a casual, relaxed feel - The continuous bench seating creates a laidback, welcoming environment perfect for family meals.
• Provides flexible, spacious seating - Benches can accommodate more guests than chairs and allow easy entering and exiting.
• Blends modern and rustic styles - With their simple silhouette, L shaped benches work in both urban lofts and farmhouse kitchens.
• Creates a conversational arrangement - Bench seating enables people to face each other and connect.

The right L shaped bench brings style and function to your dining space.

Design and Style Variations

L shaped dining benches come in numerous designs to match any decor. Consider the following style factors:

Wood Types

Oak, maple, and walnut are commonly used woods. Oak offers durability and rustic flair. Maple provides a lighter look. Rich walnut makes a dramatic statement.

Stain Colors

Opt for a dark espresso stain for modern spaces or a natural, light stain for a casual feel. White washed pine creates a coastal vibe.

Built-In vs Freestanding

Built-in benches maximize use of space. Freestanding benches allow flexibility in arranging your dining layout.

Upholstered Seat vs Wood Seat

Upholstered cushions add softness and comfort. Exposed wood seats enable easy cleaning.

Backless vs With Backrest

Backless benches have a light, contemporary look. Built-in backrests offer more support.

With many possible finishes and designs, you can find a bench to match your personal taste.

Size and Placement

Consider these factors when selecting and positioning your L shaped dining bench:

Standard Dimensions

A typical bench is 72-96 inches long and 16-18 inches high. Depth ranges from 14-16 inches without back support to 24 inches with backrest.

Custom Sizing Options

Many retailers offer custom sizes to fit your precise needs. Provide accurate room measurements.

Position Relative to Table

Place at the end or in the middle of one side. Corner placement maximizes seating capacity.

Floating vs Anchored

Floating unattached creates flexibility. Anchoring to the wall or floor adds stability.

Careful measurement ensures your bench dimensions and placement work best for your space.

Materials and Construction

Look for these hallmarks of quality craftsmanship in your L shaped dining bench:

Solid Hardwood vs Engineered Wood

Opt for solid hardwoods like oak, maple, and walnut for superior strength and endurance.

Quality Joinery

Dovetail joints guarantee sturdiness and longevity. Mortise and tenon joints also provide strong connections.

Reinforced Frames and Supports

Internal blocks, durable corner braces, and thick aprons prevent wobbling and cracks over time.

Cushion Density and Fabric

Look for dense foam and high-quality, durable upholstery fabric or leather.

Care and Maintenance

Water-based finishes simplify cleaning. Avoid delicate fabrics prone to stains.

Adhering to fine craftsmanship standards ensures your bench remains solid and stable for years of regular use.

Designing Your Dining Space

An L shaped dining bench serves as a stylish focal point. Integrate your bench into an attractive dining space with these tips:

Complement Existing Decor

Choose bench materials and colors that work with your current furnishings and architecture.

Rustic Farmhouse Feel

Add an unadorned oak bench and rustic pendant lighting for casual appeal.

Modern Minimalist Look

Try a sleek walnut bench sans backrest atop light hardwood floors.

Transitional Mixed Styles

Blending upholstered and exposed wood creates an eclectic, inviting aesthetic.

Design your bench thoughtfully to enhance your overall space and style.

Shopping Tips

Follow these tips for finding the perfect L shaped dining bench:

• Buy from reputable furniture brands for quality.
• Consider custom ordering for an ideal fit.
• Set a realistic budget and stick to it.
• Carefully measure your room size before selecting.
• Order fabric swatches to ensure colors complement your space.
• Read return policies in case you need to exchange.

Taking time to find the right bench saves frustration down the road. Do your homework before purchasing.

Inspiring Room Examples

Need a little design inspiration? These stunning dining spaces showcase trendy uses of L shaped benches:

L Shaped Bench as Bold Focal Point

An eye-catching blue bench grabs attention against crisp white walls and exotic pendant lighting.

Paired with Round Dining Table

The curve of a round table offsets a sharp-angled L shaped bench.

Anchored to Kitchen Island

Built-in bench seating makes an island space functional and family-friendly.

Sectioned Banquette Seating

Separate bench seats around a table allow easy entering and exiting.

With Brightly Colored Cushions

Vibrant patterned cushions add playful pops of color and visual interest.

Let these clever bench implementations ignite ideas for your own design.

Alternatives to L Shaped Benches

While L shaped benches maximize seating and style, consider these other options too:

• Armless settee bench - Offers light, airy look
• Corner dining bench - Fits snugly into room corners
• Saddle seat chairs - Provide comfort and back support
• Mix of chairs and banquette - Creates seating flexibility

Blending bench seats and chairs provides the best of both worlds.

L shaped dining benches infuse dining spaces with casual comfort. Their adaptable design meshes with varied decors from farmhouse to modern. Placing benches strategically can optimize seating arrangements in compact kitchens. Built to last from quality woods and sturdy construction, benches become long-lasting centerpieces of dining areas.

With knowledge of optimal size, placement and style options, you can choose a dining bench to match your family's needs. Turn your dining space into a warm, welcoming gathering place by incorporating an L shaped bench alongside your table.