BEAUTIFUL BANQUETTES: Smart Space Saving Seating

“Table or booth?”. No, this question was not asked of a maitre’ d at a boutique sushi restaurant but one I have asked clients when we start to discuss kitchen seating options. Whether the client is an active family or bachelor that loves to entertain, eat-in kitchens have become a popular request among almost everybody looking to remodel or build their dream homes.

When a small space needs flexibility in accommodating parties of one, four or eight, a banquette, or an upholstered bench, is the best solution. On built-in types, the base of the seating modular is usually constructed of wood, many times the same as the surrounding cabinets, to produce a cohesive look. These pieces also serve as extra storage space. In many instances the seat can be hinged with a piano hinge, like a toy chest, that allows the top to open. Another option is to have the face of the banquette pieces open up with cabinet doors to give access to the storage areas that way.

The seats of the “booth” usually comprises of custom cushions that can be made to fit the seating area and backrests either upholstered or simply made up of different size throw pillows . One other way to finish the banquette is to fully upholster the seat top and seat face, much like a sofa, to make it feel more like a piece of furniture. Sometimes banquettes do not even have to be built-in. Many manufacturers fabricate furniture banquettes that are upholstered in any fabric upholstery types. But they do have many details in common with built-ins including a small footprint.

But banquettes do not always have to be used in kitchens or for use with tables. Otherwise known as window seats, banquettes can be installed in a bay window to make the best out of a weirdly shaped space. Or you can install a built-in seating or bench to fill up space under a window when you also need storage.

From Craftsman to contemporary homes, breakfast nooks to hallway focal points. Banquettes come in all shapes, sizes and styles. Check out some smart ways of using this space saving seating solution.