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Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Thursday's Room(s) ~ The Banquette

Custom bench and shelving. traditional kitchen

I am working on two kitchens right now ~ among other things. In one of them, I am using a clever method of gleeming a comfortable dining space within the confines of the room AND adding extra storage. I need to seat five daily and more when family and friends visit. Enter the banquette. This smart detail has been around for centuries. Today, it is used effortlessly in kitchens, dining rooms... any room that would like a section for dining and the convenience of extra storage. Here are some examples I found on Houzz...

Rhodes Architecture + Light modern kitchen
Apartment Therapy Chicago  Bright Blue Sofa at the Kitchen Table

MEA - Novato Residence modern dining room
Anne Forell Architecture traditional kitchen
Schwartz and Architecture contemporary kitchen

I love this kitchen and the position of the dining area.

kitchen modern dining room

This application is perfect. I love the finish and the interest with the shelving.

Dining Room  dining room

Dining  dining room

So cozy!

What I love about them is they transcend all design styles. Some above have no cushions. I wouldn't be able to sit on them for very long without getting.... well.... a butt cheek ache. I understand the look especially if wonderful wood with an elegant grain is used. Still... my butt cheeks come first. I'll use cushions.

What do you think... cushions or no cushions?

4 comments:

  1. Paula, great solution. I love the last two images so much!

    Karena
    Art by Karena

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  2. I've always been drawn to banquettes - there is just something so cozy about them. And I'm with you on the cushions. Definitely cushions!

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  3. Hmm, I'm torn on the cushions. Yes, more comfy and the look of upholstery is softer on the eye, but so much easier to clean without them (I have animals, so I'm always thinking about ways to not attract dust and animal hair). What about, as an alternative, using Chilewich woven mats instead of cushions? Just a thought, I have not ever tried this product but have an interest in exploring it.

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  4. Haha, cushions for certain! These are lovely – there is something so inviting and friendly about banquettes...I really like them!

    ReplyDelete

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