Designing a comfortable and stylish dining room in a small space is no easy feat. One of the best solutions is banquette seating. This type of seating is not only trendy but also functional and attractive, especially for homes with limited space.
Planning and Designing Banquette Seating
To achieve a balanced and functional appearance, careful attention to detail is needed in planning and design, from the dimensions to the materials used. Here are some important things to understand when planning and designing banquette seating for a dining room.
Comfortable Dimensions and Size
The ideal height for banquette seating is usually around 47 cm from the floor, suitable for a dining table height of 71–76 cm. The thickness of the cushions also needs to be considered to ensure the seating position is level with the person across the table. This creates a neat appearance and maintains seating comfort.
Ensure the distance between the outer edge of the bench and the wall or furniture in front of it is around 91–97 cm. This helps maintain a spacious area and allows for easy movement.
The Right Style for Small Spaces
Several banquette styles are perfect for small dining rooms:
1. Corner (L-Shaped)
This design is perfect for narrow spaces. Two walls that meet each other are effectively utilized to create an efficient and strong dining nook.
2. Curved Style
Curved banquettes create a soft and natural look. This style makes a small room feel warmer and less cramped. The curve also makes it easier for people sitting close together to interact and engage in casual conversation.
3. Parallel-Wall Style
If the room is long, a linear style placed along the wall is a simple and effective choice.
Style and Material Inspiration
For families with small children or those seeking practicality, materials such as stain-resistant performance fabric or leather are ideal because they are easy to clean. Meanwhile, velvet creates a luxurious and warm feel. For a more vibrant look, choose patterned or boldly colored cotton fabric as the main accent.
For small spaces, banquettes in light colors can make the area appear larger. However, dark or bold colors can also be appealing if you want to create a dramatic effect. Add pillows with various textures and patterns for a more comfortable and stylish atmosphere.
Finishing Tips for Maximum Results
A low-hanging lamp above the table can provide soft lighting and a warm dining atmosphere. Round or oval tables often pair well with banquette chairs because they are easily accessible and lack sharp corners.
Table designs with a single center pillar create more legroom. Decorations such as paintings on the wall or small vases of flowers on the table can complement the decor.
DIY Banquette Benches
According to a review shared by @jennapierce on her YouTube channel, banquette benches can transform an empty corner into a warm and stylish dining area. The process demonstrates the importance of detailed planning, from creating a sketch to ensuring electrical outlet security. Understanding how to build a sturdy wood frame is also crucial, and adding moldings creates a professional-looking finish. Finishes such as painting and choosing leather-textured vinyl cushions also demonstrate how finishing touches can enhance the look and durability of your work.
Comparison of Banquette Seating and Booth Seating
Banquette and booth seating are often considered the same, but they actually have differences, both in their layout and the atmosphere they create. A banquette consists of long benches attached to a wall, creating an open and flexible feel. Its design can be adapted to the shape of the room, placed straight, curved, or in the center of the area as a room divider.
Conversely, booth seating consists of two or more banquettes facing each other with a table in the center, creating a closed and more private seating area. This style is suitable for restaurants or cafes.
With careful planning and the right design, banquette seating can work around a small dining room. It can even transform into the most comfortable and favorite corner in the house. /Fitri
