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Shopping Guide: Benches (Published 2016)

While sofas and chairs are typically the primary focus for home seating, benches offer a versatile and often overlooked alternative. Katrina Hernandez and Joshua Greene, co-owners of the New York design firm Hernandez Greene, highlight the utility of benches for providing extra seating without the bulk of larger upholstered pieces. They describe benches as similar to a "kicker on the football team"—not constantly used, but essential when needed. Since establishing their firm in 2014, Hernandez and Greene have frequently incorporated benches into their designs, placing them in various settings such as entryways, at the foot of beds, and in front of living room fireplaces in both Hamptons homes and Manhattan apartments. Selecting the right bench involves considering several key factors. One crucial aspect is whether the bench should be upholstered. For foyers or mudrooms, a hard-seated bench is practical, whereas living spaces like living rooms and bedrooms benefit from a soft, upholstered surface. Proportion is another significant consideration; deep-seated benches are ideal for living rooms, while long, shallow benches are more suitable for hallways. The presence of a backrest is also important: a back can be beneficial if the bench is positioned against a wall, such as in an entryway or breakfast nook, but is generally unnecessary if the bench is freestanding in the middle of a room. The article then showcases five distinct bench designs, each offering unique characteristics and aesthetic appeals. The Heathcote Brass-Tipped Bench from Anthropologie, priced at $1,298, is praised for its distinctive tapered legs, which are squared at the top and round at the bottom with brass caps, and its thick leather top, suggesting suitability for bedrooms or living rooms. The Bench With Back, designed by George Nakashima in the 1950s and available from $7,300 at George Nakashima Woodworker, is presented as a timeless heirloom piece. Available in American black walnut or cherry, it is noted for its enduring design and its status as an original precursor to contemporary rough-hewn slab furniture. The Euclid Bench, priced at $2,800 at Peg Woodworking, features a white oak frame and a woven cotton cord top by designer Kate Casey. This bench is described as an evolution of the Brooklyn aesthetic, characterized by its handcrafted nature, modernized geometric pattern, and bohemian-chic vibe. From Holly Hunt, the Rue de Seine Bench, starting at $5,880, is highlighted for its visually light and airy appearance, balanced by the substantial feel of its tapered metal legs. This design is considered versatile, capable of seamlessly integrating with various furniture periods and room styles due to its elegant quality. Finally, the U Bench, from $5,750 at the Future Perfect, designed by Christopher Stuart and available in steel or bronze, is presented as a sculptural piece that blurs the line between art and furniture. Its aesthetic is likened to a fusion of Richard Serra and Donald Judd, prompting consideration of its functional as well as artistic appeal. #HomeSeating #InteriorDesign #BenchSelection #FurnitureDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryFurniture #DesignTips #ModernFurniture #HomeSeating #InteriorDesign #BenchSelection #FurnitureDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryFurniture #DesignTips #ModernFurniture

115 months ago

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