Benches

Under a window, behind a floating sofa, in place of a coffee table in a narrow room, or opposite the couch as backless seating that won't block views. A bench also works as an entryway landing spot for taking off shoes. Its long, low profile fills awkward stretches of wall where a chair or table would feel out of place.

A seat height of about 18 inches suits most uses. Under a window, aim for roughly two-thirds of the window's width; at the foot of a bed, choose one a few inches narrower than the mattress. A depth of 14–18 inches is comfortable for sitting, while slimmer 12-inch entryway benches keep traffic flowing.

Upholstered benches are more inviting and soften hard surfaces, which suits living rooms and bedrooms. Wood and metal benches wipe clean easily and are better for entryways, mudrooms and dining nooks, where they take bags, shoes and spills. If the bench will be used daily, a padded seat or loose cushion adds a lot of comfort.

Yes, and it seats more people in less space than chairs. Choose a bench about 12 inches shorter than the table so it tucks under and clears the legs. Backless benches suit kids and casual meals but can tire you at long dinners, so many people pair one bench with chairs opposite for comfort and balance.

In entryways and smaller homes, yes. A lift-up seat or cubbies below hide shoes, bags and leashes while giving you a place to sit. Make sure the lid has a safety hinge, and that cubbies are at least 12 inches deep for adult shoes. Upholstered tops are comfier but show dirt faster near a busy door.

Keep it simple so the bench still invites sitting: a pillow or two at one end, a folded throw or a short stack of books. Under a window, a long seat cushion turns it into a reading nook. In an entryway, a basket underneath and a mirror or hooks above make it a practical drop zone that still looks tidy.