Over the coming months I plan to start sharing some of my design plans for various spaces in our new home. While I currently have a lot of ideas floating around, there are very few that are fully refined at this point. However, one thing I do know is that I want to add a banquette seating area to our carriage house! Today I’m going to share everything banquette seating related and share some gorgeous inspiration photos, as well!
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In our future carriage house, there is a perfect opportunity to use banquette seating. I think the use of such seating can be a bit controversial for some, as some find it not practical or a pain when multiple people are involved. And I don’t disagree! But, our carriage house, which will likely only have two guests at any given time is the perfect opportunity to try this. While I’m leaning into a temporary solution (like a pre-made banquette bench opposite chairs) there are so many cute ways to incorporate this look.
Here’s a peek at the space in Rachel in Chris’ house while they were still moving in. My plan would be to use that blank wall before you enter the hallway for the bed/bath as bench seating.
With the layout of the room, you actually come up the stairs into the kitchen and this area opposite of that blank wall, so if you center the table on the window, it can feel a bit crowded. And also make the rest of the space look really empty.
Since the dining table also acts as a desk at times when our guests come to stay but still need to work, I like the idea of having multiple seating options, both firm and soft.
Using my tutorial on how to create 3D room designs, I played around with a few options. None of the styling, colors, etc. are finalized. It was more about envisioning how the space would flow and function. It features this banquette seating that has some nice customization options. I would then add two chairs on the opposite side if we did something like this.
DESIGN PLAN SOURCES: Banquette | Dining Table | Woven Dome Chandelier | Handstand Art
Let’s jump into some of the pros and cons of banquette seating, then I’ll share some inspiration photos followed by online shops I’ve found that carry non-custom and semi-custom options!
The Pros and Cons of Banquette Seating in a Dining Nook
Banquette seating has become a popular choice in modern dining nooks, blending comfort, charm, and practicality. Often seen in cozy kitchens, breakfast corners, or open-concept living spaces, banquettes can instantly make a dining area feel both inviting and stylish. But before you commit to this built-in seating solution, it’s worth considering both the benefits and the drawbacks.
Pros of Banquette Seating
1. Maximizes Space
One of the biggest advantages of banquette seating is how efficiently it uses space. Unlike traditional chairs, banquettes can fit snugly against a wall or into a corner, making them ideal for small dining areas or oddly shaped nooks. They eliminate the need to leave clearance behind chairs, freeing up valuable square footage.
2. Creates a Cozy, Inviting Atmosphere
Banquettes add an element of warmth and intimacy to a dining nook. The upholstered seating feels more like a lounge than a formal dining space, encouraging longer, more relaxed meals. Cushions, pillows, and fabric choices also add softness and personality to the room.
3. Adds Storage Potential
Many banquettes are designed with built-in storage beneath the seat. This hidden space is perfect for stashing table linens, seasonal décor, or even kids’ art supplies. In smaller homes, this extra storage can be a game-changer.
4. Design Flexibility
Banquette seating can be customized to fit your style and needs. From sleek, modern bench seating to tufted upholstered backs with a traditional feel, banquettes can adapt to almost any aesthetic. They can also be designed in L-shapes, U-shapes, or straight runs depending on your layout.
5. Family-Friendly
For households with kids, banquettes are practical. They keep younger children in one place and can fit more people than chairs when needed. Sliding into a banquette also feels fun and less formal, making it appealing for everyday family meals.
Cons of Banquette Seating
1. Less Flexible Than Chairs
Once a banquette is built in, it’s not easily moved or reconfigured. If you decide to rearrange your space, you’ll have fewer options than you would with a traditional dining table and chairs.
2. Can Be Tricky for Seating Large Groups
While banquettes maximize space, they can also make it harder for diners to get in and out—especially if multiple people are seated along the bench. Guests may need to scoot past one another to sit down, which can feel awkward in formal settings.
3. Potential Comfort Issues
Although banquettes look cozy, comfort depends heavily on design. A poorly planned seat depth, insufficient cushioning, or an awkward backrest angle can make them less comfortable than chairs. Upholstery can also wear out over time and may need more frequent maintenance.
4. Installation Costs
Banquettes are usually custom-built, which can make them more expensive upfront compared to buying chairs. Built-in versions require carpentry work, and if you move homes, you can’t take them with you.
5. May Limit Table Options
Banquettes often work best with pedestal or trestle tables, since table legs at the corners can make sliding in and out difficult. This can limit your choices when selecting a dining table style.
As you can see there are several pros and cons to consider before making this move. Let’s look at a few examples where banquette seating works great!
Banquette Seating Ideas
I love a good window nook that incorporates banquette seating!
This built-in option looks so cozy!
A rounded edge table is probably the most practical for this type of seating arrangement, as it more easily allows people to slide around to the back side.
Options like the one below tend to have built-in storage in the base under the cushions, which is a really nice option to have if you’re needing extra storage!
To add even more charm to a space, consider skirted banquette seating like the one shown below.
If you like something more light and airy, this next image shows how you can use open bench style seating to do just that!
This colorful space looks so charming and cozy! The perfect spot to enjoy breakfast!
This next image gives the vibe of banquette seating but without the commitment. By utilizing the lines of a bay window, you can still get that cozy nook feel!
You can also mimic the vibe of banquette seating by using a small sofa, loveseat, or bench at one end of the table. This is similar to what I envision for our space.
Lastly, this gorgeous tufted leather banquette brings all the cool pub-like vibes!
Where to Buy Pre-Made Banquette Seating
Below I’ve gathered a list of online sources that offer pre-made banquette seating options. If you click the retailer name, it will take you to their banquette seating selection!
Comparison Chart: Pre-Made Banquette Seating Options
| Retailer | Style Options | Price Range | Custom Options | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wayfair | Transitional, farmhouse, modern | $ – $$ | Limited | Wide variety, budget-friendly options |
| Ballard Designs | Classic, coastal, traditional | $$ – $$$ | Yes (fabrics, finishes, sizes) | High-quality, customizable banquettes |
| Pottery Barn | Classic, farmhouse, transitional | $$ – $$$ | Limited fabrics | Timeless, durable seating with matching tables |
| West Elm | Mid-century, modern, contemporary | $$ – $$$ | Limited fabrics | Sleek, stylish looks for small nooks |
| Etsy | Rustic, farmhouse, modern, eclectic | $ – $$$ | Yes (made-to-order) | Unique, custom handmade banquettes |
| Crate & Barrel | Contemporary, modern farmhouse | $$ – $$$ | Limited fabrics | Chic, modular seating systems |
| Serena & Lily | Upscale coastal | $$$-$$$$ | Yes (made-to-order) | Durable, performance fabrics & style |
| Williams Sonoma | Upscale chic | $$$-$$$$ | Yes (made-to-order) | Performance fabrics and unique style. |
| Interior Define | Modern, custom options | $$$-$$$$ | Yes (made-to-order) | Highly customizable |
| IKEA | Scandinavian, minimalist | $ | DIY customization | Budget-friendly, storage bench hack |
Pro Tip: If you want a custom look without hiring a carpenter, pair a pre-made storage bench (like those from IKEA or Ballard Designs) with a corner unit and upholstered cushions. It gives the built-in banquette vibe at a fraction of the cost.
So what do you think? Are you a fan of banquette seating in the right setting?
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Looking forward to seeing how your banquette turns out. Holy Moly, that last one is fantastic. I love banquettes, however, would never use one. Get my fix at restaurants and cafes.
Love banquet seating! Currently having one installed. Ha! I can’t wait to see how your space comes together.