I think the bench would look nice with some simple cushions or pillows to help it feel a part of the space.

I don't think the bench works well under the window; first because it is too long and secondly because it will reduce the amount of floor space your have for chair scoot/sit. Without chairs, measure your table top. Add 36-42" all the way around; that's the space for chairs to be pulled out and sat in. Ideally they'll not bang into walls, baseboards or furniture on the walls. If you wanted to add a rug under the table, it should be that size too so chairs won't fall off it when pulled out and sat in. It is nice as well if there is room for someone to exit the table without others having to stand up and push their chairs in to allow them to pass. How about a spot in the adjacent room or foyer for the bench? Post additional pix and we'll help you find a spot for it.

Thank you. It might be hard to tell from the angle of the picture but there is a substantial amount of space all the way around. The bench is too heavy to relocate from room to room. These are all RH Russian Oak pieces so they are pretty solid. 🤪

I wouldn't be moving the bench from room to room. I'd find a permanent location and leave it there. I don't see how the bench will fit in when you have 8 chairs. Maybe you should put the leaf in and let us see what you mean.

Can you put the bench behind the sofa if you can’t remove it altogether? It won’t look right in the dining room.

Lkloes, that’s a good idea! Might try that.

BeverlyFLADeziner, there is zero gothic in this home. ☺️

It will be handy in the dining room and you mentioned there is enough space. I would purchase form and upholster in a textured fabric and if you can’t sew, a seamstress could easily and inexpensively do this. May be more comfortable also. A rug could be a nice addition as well, pulling in colors from living room.

Great idea! Yes a rug is on our list as well!

Ashley, I think Beverly was referring to the gothic style wall art that it looks like you are about to hang on the dining room walls. I agree with her to leave that space empty.

The bench is fine on it's own under the window as long as you have room to use the chairs on that side. Putting a cushion or anything else on it just highlights it. Once a rug in is that space, I don't think you'll really notice it and it will be there for when you want to use it.