Types of Benches
- A traditional English garden bench is made from wood and has a very structured design with tight slats along the seat and open slats along the back. English garden benches also have armrests on either side for added comfort. You can find English garden benches that are painted or stained to coordinate with the décor in your yard or garden.
- You can find backless benches in a variety of styles to fit any outdoor space. These benches have neither backs nor armrests and are the easiest kind of bench to make. Also known as deck benches, you will see these simple structures around the perimeter of a deck or porch, under a tree or standing alone in a garden. Most have slatted seats, but you may also find solid wooden or stone seats attached to legs or a frame.
- Storage benches may be backless or in the style of an English garden bench with a back and armrests. Most often the seats are attached to the base of the bench with hinges, but you may also find storage benches with seats, or bench tops, that are completely removable. You will find both indoor storage benches made from wood and often upholstered. Outdoor storage benches are primarily made from resin, plastic or treated wood.
- A bedroom bench is most often backless and placed at the foot of the bed for convenience, additional seating and as part of the décor. Bedroom benches may have storage, or not, and are usually covered in fabric to coordinate with the style of the bedroom.
- Rustic garden benches may be made with two boulders bracing a seat made from wooden slats or a thick slice of slate. You are most likely to see benches made from stone in a wooded or park like setting.
- Concrete benches may be decorated or plainly functional and are typically seen in a city park, government building or a business setting. The concrete is practical as it needs little to no upkeep, is extremely durable and will last for more than one lifetime.