5 Ideas for Restaurant-style Banquette Seating

Banquette seating has been a hallmark of cosy restaurants and chic cafés, bringing warmth, functionality, and style into dining spaces. 

Now, homeowners are embracing this design element to add a slice of restaurant magic to their interiors. 

Whether you’re dealing with a compact dining room or an expansive space, banquette seating can revolutionise your space. Let’s explore some innovative ideas and practical tips to make this trend work for your home.

What is banquette seating?

Banquette seating refers to built-in or freestanding bench seating that’s usually positioned against a wall, often paired with a dining table. Think of it as a more sophisticated and space-savvy version of a dining booth.

It’s perfect for creating intimate dining setups, saving space, and adding a design statement suitable for casual family dinners to sophisticated dinner parties.

So, why is it becoming the darling of modern interiors? Simple. It blends function with form, offering a cosy, stylish alternative to traditional dining chairs.

What is the difference between a bench and a banquette?

While the terms "bench" and "banquette" are sometimes used interchangeably, there are key distinctions between these seating options. 

A banquette is typically designed to fit seamlessly into a specific space, often incorporating features like built-in storage or unique design elements that enhance both functionality and aesthetics. It is, at times, intended to be a permanent fixture, adding architectural interest to your dining room.

Conversely, a bench is a freestanding piece of furniture that offers greater flexibility. It can be easily moved and repurposed in various settings, providing versatile seating solutions throughout your home.

Why choose banquette seating for your dining space?

Beyond its stylish appeal, banquette seating offers practical advantages that can truly elevate your dining area.

Here's why you might want to consider adding a banquette to your dining room:

• Space optimisation: Banquette seating is a clever solution for smaller dining areas. By eliminating the need for chairs to be pulled out, it maximises floor space and creates a more open and airy feel.
  
  

• Elevated comfort: Those long, inviting benches are designed with comfort in mind. They offer a level of coziness and support that traditional dining chairs sometimes miss. Imagine sinking into a plush banquette after a long day — talk about comfort!
  
  

• Versatile style: Whether your taste leans towards modern minimalism, rustic charm, or classic elegance, there's a banquette design to match. It's a versatile seating solution that can adapt to any aesthetic.
  
  

• Hidden storage: Many banquette benches come with built-in storage underneath, offering a discreet way to stow away knick-knacks. 
  
  

• Enhanced social connection: There's something inherently social about banquette seating. It encourages close conversation and creates a sense of togetherness, making it ideal for intimate gatherings and family meals.

Restaurant-style banquette seating ideas for your home

Ready to get inspired? Consider these creative ways to incorporate banquette seating into your dining room:

1. The classic corner nook

This one's a classic for a reason! A corner banquette is a fantastic way to maximise space in a smaller dining area or breakfast nook. It's perfect for creating an intimate setting, especially when paired with a small modern dining table and a couple of dining chairs.

If you've gone for simple options like our Elliot Performance Fabric L-Shape Banquette, add some personality with colourful cushions and throws to make your banquette bench even more inviting. 

This creates a defined dining space without sacrificing valuable floor space, making it ideal for space-scarce apartments or homes with compact dining areas.

2. The window-side wonder

A window-side banquette lets you enjoy your meals bathed in natural light. It's a great way to create a bright and airy dining space, especially if you extend the bench beyond the window. This not only maximises seating but also creates a cosy spot for reading or relaxing.

Consider adding sheer curtains or blinds to strike a balance between natural light and privacy when needed. This setup is perfect for those who love to start their day with breakfast and a view or enjoy watching the world go by during dinner.

3. The double-duty divider

If you have an open-plan living space, a banquette can cleverly act as a stylish divider between your dining area and living room. This helps define different zones within your home while maintaining an open and flowing feel.

Opt for a banquette with a low back to avoid visually closing off the space. This allows for a sense of separation without compromising the airy atmosphere of an open-plan design. It's a great way to add functionality and style without sacrificing the spacious feel.

4. The modern lounge

Want to create a sophisticated and contemporary dining space? Consider a banquette that spans an entire wall, creating a luxurious and lounge-like feel. This is perfect for larger dining areas where you want to make a statement.

Pair multiple banquettes like our Callie Storage Banquette Bench with a sleek, modern dining table and comfortable chairs. This setup is ideal for those who love to entertain or simply want to enjoy a more upscale dining experience at home.

5. Hide-and-seek

Banquette seating doesn't have to be a bold statement. In fact, you can create a subtle and sophisticated look by blending your banquette with the surrounding walls. Use the same colour or a similar tone for the banquette upholstery and the walls to create a seamless and understated effect.

Alternatively, to create contrast and visual interest, choose a banquette upholstery colour that pops against and elevates your dining room walls. This can add a playful touch and make your dining area more dynamic. 

Both approaches offer unique aesthetic benefits, allowing you to customise your space to match your personal style.

Choosing the right banquette seating

Now that you're brimming with banquette inspiration, let's talk about finding the perfect one for your home.

Here are the key factors to keep in mind:

Size and shape

Before you fall in love with a particular banquette, grab your measuring tape! One of the key dining table measurements to consider is the size of your dining area. So, carefully measure the available space to determine the appropriate dimensions for your table and seating. 

Take into account the various dimensions of any benches, as well as the size and shape of the table you plan to use. And don't forget to account for walkways and clearance space around the banquette.

Style and materials

Your banquette should complement your existing décor. Consider the overall interior scheme of your dining room and choose a banquette that blends seamlessly. Think about the materials, colours, and finishes to ensure a cohesive and visually appealing look.

Comfort and ergonomics

A stylish banquette is great, but it needs to be comfortable too! Therefore, pay attention to the seat height, depth, and cushioning. Make sure the banquette provides adequate support and is comfortable for both short and extended periods of sitting.

Upholstery and durability

If you have kids or pets, durability is key. So be sure to choose upholstery that is easy to clean and maintain. Our Callie Slipcovered Extended L-Shape Storage Banquette, for instance, simplifies dining with removable, machine-washable slipcovers.

Storage options

If you're looking to maximise space and functionality, consider a banquette with built-in storage. This can be a game-changer for keeping extra linens, placemats, or other dining essentials neatly tucked away. 

Our Callie Collection features chic banquettes with hidden storage, so you can keep essentials organised without sacrificing style.

Ready to transform your dining room?

From maximising space and enhancing comfort to adding storage and creating a more social dining experience, banquette seating is a fantastic way to add a touch of restaurant-style charm and sophistication to your home.

With various styles and configurations to choose from, you can easily find a banquette that complements your existing décor and reflects your personal taste.