I would opt for a chair. I agree that a bench across from the table will be too much. It will give the room a bowling alley feel.

I'd be partial to a bench. It will serve more than one person at a time. For instance, one person could be seated and putting on shoes, while another rests their day bag on the bench and digs through it to make sure they have everything they need for the day. Likewise, two people could be seated to put on shoes. A chair can only be used by one person at a time.

You could have two chairs if needed. How many people usually sit in your foyer at one time? I live alone, so one chair is plenty.

What about a settee..? Don't know your desired colors, but something like this could be both functional and look nice.

I would use a chair. I bet you could find some nice dining room chairs second hand.

Farmhouse Entry · More Info

These would be cool, if you can find some.

Contemporary Entry · More Info

Either a slim bench or a chair would work well there. Below are some ideas from a design of ours to help you out.

Breezy Blue Home · More Info

Breezy Blue Home · More Info

This is my thought. Sort of like this.

yes! that is definitely more my vision. And agree with decluttering entry table. It was Easter time and I don't have much furniture yet so kind of needed a place to put a few fun decorations.

This is an example of a fainting couch.

Swan Fainting Couch, Left Version · More Info