If you’re considering getting a new dining table, one choice is between traditional dining chairs and a dining bench. Many tables have both options, or the option of dining chairs on one side and the other side having a dining bench. We take a look at the pros and cons of dining benches so you can make an informed decision.
Casual styleÂ
If you’re looking for a way to make your dining room more casual and less formal, a table with a dining bench can do just that. They are reminiscent of picnic tables, creating a fun and informal dining experience. In some cases, making things more fun and informal can encourage the use of the dining table, especially for children. Having dinner together no longer needs to be a formal sit-down experience. Instead, you and your family can enjoy casual meals around your table.Â
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More room for extra guests
If you have children that often bring their friends over for dinner or to play after school, a table with a dining bench can be very beneficial. The kids can squeeze up and fit in additional bodies without needing to disrupt the usual dining experience. If the table had traditional dining chairs, you would need to find more chairs or sit in another space to accommodate everyone. A dining bench for two or three can often seat five small children comfortably. This can also be very useful if you have a large family with many young children.Â
Space saving
Many dining room benches don’t have backs, making them ideal for pushing and storing under the dining table. If you have limited space in your dining room, you can push the table right up against the wall and store the bench underneath the table until it's needed. When you come to use the table, you can simply pull it away from the wall. This is a great option for those with limited space that still want to be able to sit at a dining table and eat together.Â
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VersatileÂ
Dining benches are very versatile pieces of furniture; if you get the right bench, you can use it in another part of the house when you’re not eating dinner. For example, a dining bench at the right height can be used as a coffee table. Alternatively, it can be used as a bench in the hallway to put on shoes. There are many different applications for dining benches, not only at the dining table. This makes them great people with limited space in their homes.
Lack of support
One of the main issues of dining benches is the lack of back support provided. This can make it challenging for adults to use the seating without being uncomfortable. This is especially true for any adults that have arthritis or any back problems. They may find it impossible to sit and eat at the table without pain. One solution to this is to get a dining bench with back support, these can usually fit more people than single chairs, and they look stylish but won’t have the other benefits mentioned above. However, it can be a great solution for those concerned about the lack of back support. Another potential solution is to place the side of the table with the bench near a wall. Adults can use the wall to rest against if their back becomes sore.
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Middle seat
When using a bench-style seat for seating more than two people, it will be awkward for the person sitting in the middle to get out without asking the other guests to move. This can be frustrating and disrupt the flow of the meal, especially if they need to get up several times. It can also be uncomfortable if people want to sit at different distances from the table. All guests on the bench need to sit the same distance away for the bench to be usable.
There are some great benefits of dining benches; they’re particularly good for households with limited space and lots of children. Consider who will be using the benches before buying one for your household; adults and the elderly may find them challenging to use for prolonged periods.
Resources:
Oak Furniture - Webflow
