Searching for ways to style and add practicality to your home’s entrance? Need a storage solution that also makes great use of design to create a lasting impression? In this article I will present different types of entryway benches that add to the furniture, design, and decor of your house. No matter if you have a big foyer or a narrow hallway, these entryway bench solutions will suit the space without looking out of place.
Every section will cover one specific bench style and address the purpose, interior design benefits, and ways to incorporate it into your home seamlessly. You will see custom photo recommendations that pair with contemporary decor strategies to help build realistic images of the entire room.
Contribute Functional Use With A Storage Bench
A storage bench is one of the best options to have in your entryway, based on my experience. Serves as a practical place to sit while putting on or taking off shoes, aims to de-clutter the entryway from bags, umbrellas, and other seasonal accessories. It’s perfect for traditional, transitional, and even modern interiors as the design is adaptable.
A traditional storage bench may also feature a lift seat, side cubbies, or even several bins underneath. For longevity and safety, I suggest one with a soft-close lid. Add a stack of throw pillows or a lumbar cushion to make it more inviting. It’s a great for families with children or pets where style and function are equally important.
Personally, I’ve come across storage benches sold by Pottery Barn or Wayfair, and they all seem to have good value for money in terms of the craftsmanship and built-in features that look like they were made bespoke. Better Homes & Gardens describes a tasteful storage bench as “a catchall for chaotic homes,” signifying an immediate decluttering of the area.
Consider wall-mounted shelves or a small mirror above the bench to boost horizontal space while also diffusing light, improving this layout.
Make The Best Out Of Limited Space With Slim Storage Benches
Slender benches are an ally for anyone with limited entry space. These benches tend to be narrower than 12 inches in depth, providing ample floor space while adding another functional seat. I always recommend slim benches for small homes or one-bedroom apartments with an entry that opens directly into other rooms.
My preference generally is a metal or wood bench with simple legs to maintain visual order. For comfort without bulk add a single seat cushion or a wool throw. I love how these benches pair with narrow console tables or wall-mounted coat racks. They provide balance without crowding the area which is so important.
I once incorporated a slim walnut bench in a 500-square-foot studio and the outcome was paradigm shifting. It compartmentalized the entry space without hindering circulation. Bench seating with a delicate profile like these is best for avoiding congestion and maintaining flow, as noted by House Beautiful.
A vertical shoe rack or mirror cabinet can improve storage within the sleek design.
Make A Statement With A Rustic Wooden Bench
Right at the threshold of your home, a rustic wooden bench sets a warm, welcoming tone. I frequently work with reclaimed wood or raw finishes for added charm and character. These benches are particularly effective in farmhouse, country, or boho interiors, but could also act as a pop of contrast in modern designs.
My ideal bench has an exposed wood grain, chunky legs, and is detailed with handcrafted embellishments. Paired with jute rugs, woven baskets, and iron hooks, it creates a full rustic composition. I prefer leaving the wood bare and without cushions to let the bench’s character shine.
In my own mountain cabin, the entryway features an oak bench I made with dove-tail joints. It is precisely as weathered and beautiful as I envisioned, and everyone is impressed. Architectural Digest states how rustic materials add a “lived-in look” and instantly brings soul to any room.
Adding overhead lighting with wrought iron fixtures or a gallery wall featuring black and white prints of nature will help enhance this design further.
Go Modern With Minimalist Bench Designs
When creating a contemporary look in an entryway, minimalist bench designs are the best choice. They are known for their clean lines, monochrome palette, and functional simplicity. I often utilize them in contemporary homes or open-concept urban lofts where the entryway is part of the main area.
My preferred choices are benches that have a matte finish, neutral colors like black, white, or gray, and bases made of steel or powder-coated metal. At times, I opt for a cantilevered style with no visible supports to accentuate the floating effect. These pieces integrate perfectly with sculptural wall art or abstract geometric mirrors.
For a client’s available penthouse, I used a matte black bench alongside cement flooring and a wall-to-wall glass window system — it bestowed a museum-like charm. Elle Decor has stated that off “modern bench silhouettes serve as negative reinforcement within neutral spaces.”
As for this section, I would propose adding concealed LED strip lighting mounted under the bench or minimalistic wall panels with light textures that create shadows and interest.
Warm Up Your Home With A Cushioned Entryway Bench
For families looking to pursue comfort and softness the minute they step inside the house, a cushioned bench is the way to go. This is a design I typically suggest for residential properties, or for homes with a warm and cheerful atmosphere. This type of bench beckons people to sit, removes their shoes, and enjoy a moment of stillness.
Try to look for tufted or upholstered tops with performance fabric in beige, navy, or moss green. I like to place these benches with soft textiles like chunky knit throws, accent pillows, or even a small storage ottoman positioned nearby. These embellishments are not only comfortable but also provide depth to your space.
A linen-cushioned bench is now in place in a beachside bungalow and it instantly transformed the space as luxurious. Real Simple suggests fabric “that’s easy to clean with your wall and flooring color scheme.”
I would place a small woven basket to store flip-flops or dog leashes and perhaps one of the sides could be adorned with a plant to soften the look.
Inset Drawers For Concealed Storage
For a tidy entryway, drawers are a wonderful option for concealing things like keys, mail, or gloves. Personally, I prefer a bench with integrated drawers when designing for a more transitional or traditional space that requires warmth as well as order.
Look for a seating unit with shallow drawers and parred with vintage inspired cast handles for trim style contrast. Complement with classic moulding or beadboard panelling on the wall for a pulled-together look. This combination works wonderfully in mudrooms or service entrances.
I have employed drawer benches in suburban houses where children need designated places to store their personal possessions. As stated by HGTV, “hidden drawers,” “offer the ideal balance of function and form for entryway organization.”
Designating wall spaces as label zones or family message boards can further enhance this design, creating a command center.
Create A Built-In Bench Nook
One of the most transformative ways to design an entryway is to create a bench nook. It appears intentional and architectural. I always recommend this for large homes or homes that are remodeling. A custom alcove bench not only delineates the space but offers built-in storage and vertical design elements.
The general structure has cubbies under, side cabinets, and often a tall panel with hooks or sconces placed over. I enjoy contrasting wall colors or using wallpapers on the back panel to create a feature wall.
One client of mine installed a bench nook in their craftsman style house using paneled wood with integrated lighting. It was magazine-worthy. Domino Magazine says built in benches are “functional sculptures” adding value to the home’s footprint.
For this design, I would recommend incorporating custom details like name tags or a family monogram to personalize it.
Why Use A Floating Entryway Bench
Whether it is a contemporary or vintage home, a floating entryway bench introduces sleekness and space into the house. This style offers a modern twist because it is mounted to the wall, which makes it clear from the floor. From my experience, this works best in modern styled spaces that need some visual relief. My favorite feature about this bench is that it perfectly fits in claustrophobic hallways.
A majority of these benches are constructed using metals, wood, and simple designed composite material. To enhance the space, I recommend placing mood lights above the bench because they shine the floor and create a wonderful atmosphere. These give great effect when paired with vertical mirrors, slender coat hooks, or slatted walls to add depth into the room. An eye-catching benefit of the design is a small ottoman without disturbing the coat rack’s accessories placed above the bench.
One of my recent projects included a modern townhouse where I incorporated a suspended white oak bench complete LED lighting concealed in the brass brackets. The addition of the bench opened the room up visually while also offering practical seating. Dwell magazine wall-mounted benches serve the purpose perfectly “for visually expanding tight transitional spaces.”
Aesthetically pleasing wall-mounted benches with added slim panels or boards provide a more grounded look while creating an appearance of a built in feature without the commitment, allowing for greater flexibility.
Add Style With A Mid-Century Modern Bench
For homeowners who cherish an inviting aesthetic and warm wooden tones, I often suggest mid century modern style benches. They are the perfect combination of style and simplicity which features organic materials and clean silhouettes with tapering. Mid century modern benches draw attention in an entryway while also providing everyday functionality.
Look for teak or walnut materials with spindled backs, soft angled button-tufted cushions, and spindled backs as they soften the overall design. Retro inspired accessories pairs well like pendulum globe lights, abstract art, or mod mirrors. Mid century charm is reinforced with careful attention to every detail from the hardware and legs.
The rustic charm of a 1960’s ranch home paired effortlessly with the caramel leather mid-century bench with tapered wooden legs. It felt effortlessly chic. As stated by Apartment Therapy, “‘Midcentury designs blend elegance with comfort, making them ideal for high traffic spaces like entryways.’”
Consider adding a low cabinet next to the bench, or a vintage style console table to elevate the aesthetic while adding extra storage.
Choose A Two Tier Bench For Shoe Storage
If your entryway is constantly in battle with cluttered shoes, a two-tier bench is your best friend. This is one of my favorite layouts for busy family homes, where kids, roommates, or guests frequently stop by. The top-tier serves as a comfortable seat, while the lower tier out of sight yet on display holds everything from boots to sneakers.
Metal or wooden frame designs with lower open or slotted shelving work best. These provide airflow and easier access when it comes to cleaning. This type of bench when paired with a simple cushion or mat along with wall hooks for coats and hats becomes multi-functional and practical. These benches are highly affordable and work well in casual interiors and entry areas that lead directly from garages.
Last time I remodeled, I placed a two-tier bench nearby a side door, and I got individual wicker baskets for each family member. The Spruce suggests labeled bins under the seat to streamline the processes and add less hassle to mornings.
To improve this, I would incorporate a storage cabinet with a smaller profile or a framed chalkboard specifically for notes and reminders.
Incorporate Bench and Wall Hooks Together For Maximum Use
Using a wall-mounted coat rack or hooks alongside the bench transforms a simple seating area into an eye-catching multi-purpose entryway. This feature suits households especially where there is no formal mudroom. This is often how I construct these spaces, working like a mini station for outerwear, bags, and other winter accessories in places where they can be easily accessed.
For maximum organization, I always recommend placing a solid bench and a row of hooks at no more than an adult’s eye level. Be creative and try different layouts; for example, pair adult and child hooks on the same wall frame. That makes everything more visually appealing. A great way to emphasize the area around the bench is to frame the wall with beadboard or shiplap and paint it a contrasting color. To take full advantage of the storage area, adding small trays on the bench for keys and wallets is a game changer.
In one of my farmhouse style projects, I placed black iron hooks over a rustic white bench with baskets underneath. It added organization and beauty immediately. As Martha Stewart Living suggests, hooks can “triple the functionality of an unused wall in an entryway.”
To enhance the space even more add a framed corkboard or magnetic board to showcase reminders or seasonal decorations.
Use A White Painted Bench To Illuminate The Entryway
An entryway bench painted in white instantly brightens the area while also setting it up in a welcoming manner. I like to use this idea when the objective is to achieve a light and airy feel, particularly in homes that lack sufficient sunlight. An open crisp white bench bounces more light and gives the impression that space is larger and more expansive.
Choose a wooden bench in satin or semi-gloss white for durability and ease. It is best upholstered with light cushions, a textured rug, and brass or gold toned accents. It also looks great set against darker walls or colored wainscoting where it provides contrast and depth.
One of the projects I did included a white bench with pale gray shiplap and oversized art framed above. It felt like a magazine spread. Southern Living notes that “white entrance pieces add a sense of classic simplicity that works with every season.”
In addition, I would place some indoor plant decor or soft-toned ceramic vases in monochrome to spice the look and soften the atmosphere.
Use an Old Antique Bench for Vintage Charm
Want to customize your entrance and add a wroom of history? Nothing works better than an antique bench. I came across an old bench the other day, and i was transixed by the attention to detail that mass produced furniture simply doesn’t possess. They work especially well in Vintage, Classic, or an Eclectic mixture of styles.
Also, look for weathered wood with stories, curved armrest, or carved legs which add warmth. Complementing it with old-style lighting, Persian rug, and vintage mirror creates warmth and magic. The ever rich contrast between old and new adds a lot of character to the design.
I use a reclaimed pine church pew as an entry bench in my home. It captures attention and provides an earthy, soulful touch. Vintage entry pieces are referred to as “functional heirlooms that elevate the everyday” by Veranda magazine.
To better the aesthetics, a tray or storage basket can be placed at arm’s reach for readily accessible modern items without disturbing the vintage feel.
Go Bold With A Colorful Entryway Bench
There are instances when the stone-cold entryway needs a splash of life and bold vibrant benches will do just that. I am a fan of assertive colors like mustard yellow, coral red, or deep teal. Apart from drawing attention, bright benches also provide the necessary uplift a room needs.
Select a bench upholstered in lively fabric or smooth wood painted in vibrant hues. Then, incorporate other components such as wall artwork and rugs that echo the bench color’s to go with it. This fosters synergy rather than over-stimulation. With the rest of the color scheme, the bench can take center stage.
In my latest design, I positioned a deep emerald green velvet bench against white walls adorned with black-framed photographs. It felt both luxe and grounded. House & Garden suggests employing a bolder accent to “set an adventurous tone without committing to full-room color.”
A colorful umbrella stand or a patterned seat cushion can be added to accent the energy of the vibrant bench.
Use A Corner Bench To Save Space
When planning a compact entryway, every square inch must be maximized. For this reason, I often suggest a corner bench — it creates a dead space efficiently while providing a warm place to sit or stow away items. This design works best in older homes or narrow entryways found in apartments and condos. The triangular shape of the bench fits snugly into a corner which is often hard to decorate.
I prefer designs that do include open cubbies or a lower shelf as it is more useful devoid of storage that sneakers, baskets or other seasonal items can be placed in. To enhance restfulness, supplementary wall hooks or a narrow shelf above the bench can balance the room utilized for key and decorative storage.
I personally love corner benches because they do not obstruct busy spaces while beautifully transforming a corner into a cozy nook. A while ago, House Beautiful featured a corner bench entryway where the designer paired it with soft lighting and natural wood tones for a calming entry—what an exquisite example of subtle beauty and strong function!
To enhance this concept further, I would recommend placing a mirror above the bench to create the illusion of space and allow natural light to flood in. It’s a small change, but it makes a difference in areas where only a small amount of space is available.
Tufted Upholstered Bench Adds Elegance
I absolutely adore this suggestion since it adds comfort to the entryway as well as style, particularly with the tufted detail. This is a great pick for people who wish to maintain a chic, sophisticated vibe in the entry area because the fabric does soften the look and encourages people to pause and sit for a moment, even if it’s just to slip off their shoes or place a bag down.
There are numerous fabric options for tufted benches, however, I personally prefer a more polished look in linen or velvet. Striving for elegance with turned legs or brass studs is also a plus. A bench without arms looks great placed against a gallery wall or underneath a large piece of art or sculpture as it provides a pleasing visual blend of form and function.
Individually designed tufted benches stand out in my projects because they act as a focal point. With reference to Elle Decor, customized tufted benches offer an unparalleled luxury accent even for the simplest of entryways. In my personal experience, these always remain practical when accompanied by a tray or decorative box for keys.
A matching wall-mounted coat rack or a mirror would perfectly complement the elegance of a tufted bench and could be made of brass or black metal to integrate that additional sophistication.
Combine Bench Seating With A Coat Rack
An especially convenient solution for busy corridors is combining a coat rack and a bench so that both sit in one unit. This design not only declutters an entrance but also transforms it into a compact mudroom, allowing for effortless storage. I like to suggest this multifunction design particularly for families with kids or homes with high traffic—this is fantastic for the winter season.
A coat hook and a hat or basket shelf units are mounted above seated space. Depending on the interior style, I usually choose between wood or metal. For a more traditional, cozy farmhouse vibe, I select wood, while black metal suits a more urban design. For functional purposes, the bench can either have open storage underneath or concealed drawer spaces.
In my experience, it is so neat with an entryway bench as it provides every family member a space to hang coats and bags. When I installed it, I also added labeled baskets underneath, which, as suggested by better homes & gardens, helps keeps everything organized at orderly at all times.
Going a step further, you can use a rug runner or even wall paneling placed behind the bench. This would beautifully add space-defining while also boosting visual appeal.
Farmhouse-Style Bench A Cozy Welcome
Nothing beats the rustic charm of a farmhouse-style bench situated right at the entrance. I love to incorporate farmhouse style into homes which value comfort and have a more laid-back aesthetic.
In the entryway, pair a reclaimed wood or distressed farmhouse benches with jute rugs or woven baskets for added warmth. Finishing the entryway look with a vintage lantern completes the warm welcoming aesthetic.
These farm benches have always set a curated yet casual welcome right from the moment one steps in. Something I’ve noticed through her work is that Joanna Gaines has been using similar setups in transitional spaces, bringing warmth right off the bat.
For an enhanced and even more inviting design, consider placing a seasonal wreath or sign above the bench. This idea is straightforward and effortless, allowing you to change the decor throughout the year without fully redoing the space.
Look for Benches with Rattan and Wicker Detailing
To add additional texture and incorporate natural materials to the entryway, I often recommend a bench with wicker or rattan detailing. These are lighter materials, so they will not weigh down the design, and are also very strong, making them suitable for modern, coastal, or bohemian spaces. I love how they instantly bring an airy feeling to an entryway.
Most rattan benches include open-weave sides or backs which add to the stylistic value of the furniture as they make it less bulky. I also love those with a woven shelf underneath. It keeps everything organized, but not in a cluttered way. To soften the look, a neutral toned cushion can be added, all while keeping the focus on the natural beauty of the bench.
Hanging straw hats and linen curtains next to a styled rattan accent bench transports you into summer home bliss. I styled a room like this previously, and I have to say that I have not felt that relaxed in so long. Even Apartment Therapy suggests this style is perfect for introducing a vacation atmosphere to your interiors without being too extreme.
For this design, you can add a light pendant to go over the bench, or position one or another textured wall panel in the back to create warmth and visually appealing features.
How to Integrate a Bench Seat into a Mudroom
Where mudrooms or mudroom nooks are feasible, the layout semi dedicating a bench becomes the focal point. As I often suggest to customers, a bench increases the usefulness of a mudroom design, particularly when it is integrated with vertical storage and upper cabinets.
A mudroom bench usually extends wall to wall for adequate seating and shoe storage. In my works, I prefer built-in seating with cubbies under and cabinetry over. Easy to maintain and moisture resistant materials such as painted wood and laminate surfaces work the best. A waterproof cushion makes the bench even more inviting, especially on less-than-ideal days.
By placing a full-width bench with open shelving, I’ve modified entry zones into mini-mudrooms. I know of some other similar transformations featured on HGTV where hallway alcoves are multi-functional landing zones mid-transitions.
What I could add here is a boot tray or a rug that is easily washable, both crucial for maintaining the cleanliness of a space during rain and snow.
Get A Bench With Cubbies
Cubbies incorporated into a bench are an amazing option for maintaining a neat entryway. For families with pets or multiple members, I have repeatedly implemented this solution for easy access to different items. Guides suggest devoting spaces for shoes, bags, umbrellas and baskets.
A bench also has an upper portion which usually has open rectangular spaces beneath it. Each space is able to accommodate a tote or a bin. I prefer wood or MDF constructions, which are painted in lightly colored tones like white, navy and grey. While a padded seat on top makes it more inviting, woven or labeled baskets placed inside the cubbies add to the neat appearance.
To me, this design is within reach of effortless organization. Numerous times, I have read from Real Simple magazine how useful a bench like this can be for simplifying routines, particularly when placed near a primary entrance.
Something that could be added to complete this design is labeling the cubbies with each individual family member’s name or making the cubbies into pull out drawers for those who want a more streamlined design.
Creating Accessibility With Lower Benches
When designing an entryway bench for kids, attention must be paid to the height, safety, and functionality of the bench. For this reason, I often advocate for low-profile bench designs that are within reach for children. In addition to fostering autonomy, a low bench aids in maintaining cleanliness around the home by providing a designated spot for storing shoes, backpacks, and coats.
These benches are usually 12 to 15 inches high and often come with open cubbies or bins beneath. The material also matters, that’s why I prefer sturdy wood or painted MDF with rounded edges to prevent injuries. The addition of a bright color or chalkboard surface makes it more enjoyable without losing the element of practicality.
I’ve implemented this solution in multiple family residences which also have bright wall hooks about 3 to 4 ft off the ground. I’ve read that Parenting magazines such as Parents endorse these steps to encourage young children to engage and help mitigate the overwhelming clutter that comes with having multiple young children. A defined space helps cultivate responsible behavior early on in life.
To go a step further, I would add soft cushions with washable covers and consider designating sections per child through name tags to enhance personalization.
Get Creative With Your Own DIY Entryway Bench Designs
DIY entryway benches provide unrivaled customization. Shape them into exactly what you need as a hobby, craft project, or a tailored furniture piece specifically for your space. That is why I often recommend this option for clients with distinct spatial constraints or unique storage needs. You will have the freedom to blend style and function when crafting your own benches.
Old dressers, headboards, or simply plywood can be repurposed into many DIY benches. Depending on what the client wants, I have designed benches with flip-top seats or integrated shelving and shoe racks. Sanding and staining the wood, painted embellishments, and even stenciled names truly makes the piece as unique as its proprietor.
Designers constructing custom entry seating for mid-century homes and rustic cabins alike; I’ve followed these projects on sites like The Spruce and House Beautiful, and the creators have incredible diverse projects that inspired me. Customization is where beauty lies, especially when it comes to proportions, color, and the amount of storage needed.
One universally useful tip I always incorporate is adding a waterproof sealant or varnish to extend life, especially if the bench is located near a heavily trafficked doorway.
Add Style With Decorative Throw Pillows
Decorative throw pillows are a great way to update the look of a bench without replacing it. This is something I recommend to my clients who wish to swap out the aesthetic for the seasons, or simply change things up without spending too much money. They instantly add color, warmth, and character to the design of any bench.
Depending on your style, you could go for geometric patterns, linen textures, or embroidered prints. Personally, I prefer to use two or three different pillows of varying sizes to create a layered look that adds dimension. This evokes an easygoing, welcoming atmosphere, especially when paired with a solid or neutral bench surface.
In my own entryway, I switch out the pillow covers between designs that are themed for fall and spring, and it makes a striking difference. As emphasized in Better Homes and Gardens, decorative throws pillows are an effortless improvement that adds comfort without a doubt.
For more effortless polish to this look, coordinating pieces of art directly above the bench or a small accent rug can further the cohesive feel of the room.
Adorn Metal Framed Benches And Embrace Industrial Design
I frequently suggest a bench with a metal frame for homes with modern, loft or industrial styles. They help anchor your entryway’s aesthetic and serve as a functional centerpiece and focus with their striking design. These benches are particularly useful for urban apartments or minimalist interiors.
These benches are usually in black steel or iron and have either wood or faux leather tops. The brackets also possess strength. In combination with exposed brick walls or concrete flooring, or even simple white walls, these benches take center stage and are hard to miss. Some designs even come with metal mesh shelves to hold boots or baskets.
To not overwhelm open-plan spaces, I’ve used these metal framed benches in conjunction with other pieces to divide areas in more structured ways. They are also described on Architectural Digest as city dwellers’ best friends. Craving simplicity yet with an edge is an understatement.
I suggest using a leather cushion or plain wool pillow in neutral tones to liven the space while adding a layer of comfort. This enhances the softness of the space.
Repurposed Bench Seat with a Hidden Lift-Top Storage Compartment
For those seeking aesthetics and utility, lift-top storage benches serve both purposes. I often suggest them for clients wanting to store seasonal items like gear, umbrellas, or shoe polish out of sight but within reach. Besides providing seating, a lift-top storage bench with a compartment also elbows storage space within reach.
These benches typically have a lid that hinges open to display a compartment within. Preferably, I lean towards models with soft-close hinges and washable surfaces. Depending on your interior design theme, wood or faux leather benches work well. Some even provide additional charm as paneled side trunks.
Having incorporated these into several projects, I found they work best in larger entryways where the lid can be opened freely without obstruction. Also, consider complementary furnishings such as wall-mounted hooks and floating shelves arranged above them to eliminate clutter and maintain space access.
One change I always suggest is adding a divider within the storage compartment to better separate items like gloves, scarves, and pet leashes.
Sophistication By Mixing Wood And Leather Through Style
A simple bench can become a design element by incorporating wood and leather. This is often recommended to homes that want a sophisticated but welcoming aesthetic. The combination of wood’s warmth and the smooth texture of leather provides an enticing visual appeal.
This combination is usually designed in -century or contemporary interiors. Imagine a walnut wood base with a caramel leather cushion, or dark oak with black steel legs and leather strap seats. These understated combinations bring refinement without overpowering the entryway.
In my design experience, this is most effective when paired with decor such as brass, large framed mirrors, or even a patterned runner. Such benches are frequently featured in Elle Decor as focal points in beautifully understated, luxurious spaces.
To further develop this concept, try accenting it with a narrow console table nearby in the same material or wall art with wood and leather-framed artwork.
Pick A Transformable Bench For Multi-Purpose Use
A transformable bench is ideal for small entrances. This type of seating is best suited for people who frequently host or reside in compact apartments. It is great for small spaces, multifunctional mudrooms, or homes experiencing shifts in needs.
A retractable bench is often constructed using lightweight metals for the frame and canvas, leather, or even wood for the seat. Some travel as far as folding flat and fitting in cupboards. I’ve fitted some that work well for transitional spaces, especially where permanent seating would be too much. They’re easily portable outdoors when needed.
In my own setting during a get together, having one on hand worked better than expected. Even packable benches get good reviews for their versatility on the Apartment Therapy website.
To further improve the arrangement, I suggest placing a small woven basket with gear close by, and packed pillows or throws, that can easily prep the space in no time for when visitors show up.
Use Live-Edge Benches To Enhance Natural Beauty
The live edge bench is one of the most beautiful inspiring pieces to have emanated in entryway design. These benches are brilliantly rustic as they are made from slabs of real wood with the edges still with its natural form. For those who appreciate refined grace, these slabs provide perfect balance between rustic and sophisticated. As an addition, anyone who has a Scandinavian touch, zip home with minimalistic layouts or earthy color combinations would fare very well with this design. Installing an entryway live edge bench provides warmth and character.
In styling this area, I choose to use the Living Bench Sled with the matte black metal frame for added style and protection. The woven jute rug placed below adds to the organic feel of the space. The same timber employed for the coat rail completes the design on the shelf, offering the raw look. The large round mirror with a timber frame placed over the bench centerpiece is ideal for reflecting light, achieving balance and adding charm to the space. Cushions made of soft linen or cotton in earthy colors are a great addition to the Living Bench Sled for comfort and beauty.
As for me, I really think this type of bench captures the attention of guests since it has a welcoming feel to touch and exploration. There is this one tip from Architectural Digest that pointed out the calming effect raw wood introduces into transitional spaces, and I could not agree more. This is not simply about the aesthetics; it’s about ensuring that there is a moment of pause and a connection to nature the moment someone walks in.
To complete this look, I would propose adding a black or galvanized steel low-profile shoe tray directly under the bench. A tall floor plant like a fiddle leaf fig to soften the angles on the side would add additional vitaility to the space.
Match Your Bench To The Flooring Or Trim
To achieve a visually seamless entryway, the bench paired with the flooring or trim adds an elegant touch. I have witnessed this in both styles of homes and if done right, it unlevels the entire room in a positive way. If you have medium oak or walnut flooring, purchase a bench that closely matches the wood tone to achieve a smooth transition from floor to bench.
My preference is a solid wood bench with linear and minimalistic cut. The upholstery or cushion fabric ought to similarly be inspired by surrounding elements, such as window trim, stair rail, or wainscoting. For instance, if your trim is warm white, you may wish to cover the cushion of the bench in ivory or beige. Places for slim drawers or an open shelf integrated into a complementing rest can add unobtrusive storage.
In my experience, blending the bench with the flooring or the trim increases the perception of smaller spaces because it reduces sharp contrasts that split the area. While working on a small townhouse renovation, I was astonished by how well the bench blended with the oak floor; it looked custom built. These kinds of design harmonies are routinely suggested from Better Homes & Gardens for constricted spaces to make them feel elegant and fluid without feeling rushed.
As such, these are areas I would add to by placing a coordinating storage basket or tray in a matching finish. A simple matching key bowl can join form and function, and increasing usability.
Elevate A Neutral Space With A Patterned Bench
There is sometimes nothing more challenging than dealing with neutral color entryways. They can sometimes be devoid of character and focus. This is precisely the reason why a patterned bench can work wonders. It’s no secret that a lot of my clients rightfully prefer soft wall hues, low toned stone tiles, or pale hardwood floors and wanting their residence to ‘pop’ from the rest. Front entryways can radiate character with a bench boasting an upholstered seat featuring eye-catching geometrical, floral prints, or bold classic stripes.
The softer the backdrop, the better it is for me. I love a good combination of neutral backdrops with patterned benches layered with soft textures like knitted throws or plush velvet cushions. Subtle patterns such as herringbone or Moroccan tile motifs can work beautifully, achieving that perfect balance between bold and understated. The bench can be paired with a light oak console table boasting sharp lines and painted white, while an abstract art print can elegantly highlight the striking visual dynamism above it.
A patterned bench provides the perfect low commitment option when trying to add warmth to a space. In a client’s entryway with white shiplap, I incorporated a black and white tribal patterned bench and it added just the right dose of eclecticism. Elle Decor’s advises reinforcing soft neutrals with patterns to achieve something other than a minimalistic flat aesthetic, and I fully support that.
A small entry round in a coordinating pattern or in a complementary color would visually anchor the bench and complete this space. This area would be further polished with a slim brass wall sconce or a ceramic umbrella stand.
Go For A Bench That Can Double As A Shoe Rack
For practical families with children and pets, a multifunctional entryway bench and shoe rack is essential. This is one of the most effective pieces of multifunctional furniture and I have incorporated this into dozens of houses and they have all notice a cleaner and more organized entryway. Be sure to look for styles that feature an open bottom shelf or cubbies designed for easy shoe storage to eliminate clutter on the floor.
For a clean style look, I usually like to select a wooden bench integrated with a lower rack in slatted wood or metal. The cushion on top should be easy to clean and waterproof while the surface should be wide enough for seating. Open and closed storage at different levels help to hide unattractive clutter. Attaching a tall mirror beside the bench allows the user to check their reflection while aiding the room feel larger and brighter as well as feeling more spacious.
This is a solution I consider very practical. In fact, Real Simple Magazine has featured bench-shoe rack hybrids on their must-have lists for compact living to maximize space, particularly for entryways, more than once. I remember helping one client furnish a narrow mudroom with two side by side benches and the visual outcome was remarkably cohesive along with being efficient.
If there was anything I would add here, it would be a strip of hooks above the bench for coats and bags. You can streamline your entry further with labeled baskets or felt bins underneath the bench.
An entryway bench can change how your home greets guests and supports daily activities, from providing innovative storage to making a ‘wow’ statement. No matter if you are into modern minimalism or vintage charm, there is a design for every taste and space. What’s your favorite idea? Or is there something you’ve tried that adds a unique spin to your own entryway? I would love to know what you think, so make sure to drop a comment below!
