Family Home, LondonScandinavian Dining Room, London
emma lewis
What Houzz contributors are saying:
Go up and aroundMake use of vertical space by building up and around a long bench. It’s a clever way to use potentially dead space up high and down the sides of the walls. In general, tucking shelves just below the ceiling can be a clever way to fit in more storage. If your dining room layout is unlikely to change in the future, this idea could be worth considering.
‘This area was a blank slate when I first saw it, although the skylight was already there,’ recalls Fiona. With so much space to play with, there was a danger the room would feel too cold, so Fiona opted for colourful banquette seating to add drama to this corner of the room.‘We added the traditional-style wall unit above the seating to give a more friendly vibe,’ she explains. ‘Having books along the top makes it a really personal space, and is lovely way to express the family’s character.’ Arley Stripe fabric, GP & J Baker. Dining table, Karavan. Bespoke bookcase built by Pascal Huser.
What Houzzers are commenting on:
If you are thinking about putting a banquette in your kitchen, heed Susan’s advice: Ideally, you need a minimum of 27 inches of space for each person to sit comfortably. The depth of the benches should be at least 24 inches, because you will want to leave space for an angled back or upholstered seating. The table should overlap each bench by three inches or so. If you are designing a banquette in front of windows, be sure that the windows are a good 24 inches off the floor to allow for a seat height of 15 inches (not counting the height of the cushions). When it comes to upholstery, opt for something washable. Fabric-upholstered cushions are never a great idea, especially with children. Choose an upholstered banquette in leather or pleather, just like the seating you would find in a restaurant. Such material can be easily wiped clean, and you won’t have to deal with the cushions falling off the benches. Your local upholsterer should be able to help you pull this together.
Example of banquette built w/in cabinetry system....
Photos in Family Home, London
