A banquette is an upholstered seating area that is built into the architecture of a room. Banquettes are versatile design elements that can work in many different spaces and serve a variety of functions. Here are 9 great examples of how you can incorporate a banquette into your home or business.
Introduction
Banquettes are a fantastic way to maximize seating in a compact space. They are cozy, comfortable, and when well-designed can be quite striking visually. Banquettes are often seen in restaurants, cafes, bars, and lounges, but they also translate beautifully into residential settings.
Banquettes come in many different shapes, sizes, and styles. They can be simple or ornate, blend seamlessly into a room or stand out as a unique architectural feature. The defining characteristic of a banquette is that it is connected to a wall or set of walls, often with a back and sides that match the shape of the corner or nook where it is situated.
There are so many creative ways to incorporate banquettes into both commercial and residential designs. Read on for 9 awesome examples of banquettes in action.
Breakfast Nook Banquette
One of the most classic uses of a banquette is in a breakfast nook off of a kitchen. These cozy seats are the perfect perch for enjoying a cup of coffee and the morning paper. Banquette breakfast nooks maximize space efficiency while providing a comfy place to dine or work.
When designing a kitchen banquette, consider the following:
- Upholster the banquette in a spill-resistant fabric since this high-traffic dining area will see a lot of use. Leather or vinyl are good choices.
- If the banquette is situated beneath a window, don’t forget to incorporate thick, comfy cushions for luxurious seating.
- For a streamlined, minimalistic look choose a banquette with clean lines in a neutral, solid fabric.
- For a more ornate, traditional vibe opt for a tufted design and rich fabrics like brocade.
- Incorporate hidden storage underneath the banquette seats to maximize utility.
- Floating banquettes that don’t extend fully to the floors feel lighter visually.
- Make sure to leave adequate clearance between the banquette and the table so diners can get in and out comfortably.
A thoughtfully designed kitchen banquette can transform an unused corner or awkward nook into a charming spot for morning coffee and family breakfasts.
Home Theater Banquette
For the ultimate movie-watching experience, incorporating banquette seating into a home theater is a fantastic idea. Banquettes provide plenty of comfortable space for lounging with family or friends while watching films.
Key factors to keep in mind when designing home theater banquettes:
- Opt for a deep banquette size so you can really sink back into the cushions. Depth of at least 36 inches is ideal.
- Upholster the banquette in a luxurious material like leather or velvet for a glamorous vibe.
- Incorporate recessed lighting or sconces to illuminate the banquette for safe entry and exit when the theater lights are dimmed.
- Banquettes with adaptable configurations can maximize seating arrangements. Sectionals are a great choice.
- Consider cupholders and other convenience features built into the banquette.
- If possible, elevate the banquette seating to provide better viewing angles.
- Maximize sound absorption by lining the wall behind the banquette with acoustic panels.
Creating a banquette viewing area transforms a home theater into a truly luxurious experience where you can settle in for hours of unbeatable entertainment.
Restaurant Banquettes
Banquettes are a quintessential part of many restaurant designs. They provide space-maximizing seating and often deliver an intimate, inviting ambiance. Restaurant banquettes typically have a few defining features:
- Deep, plush cushions and high backs create a comfortable environment where guests can relax and linger.
- Upholstery is durable and easy to clean to withstand heavy use and the occasional spill. Vinyl, leather, or stain-resistant fabrics are ideal choices.
- Matching the banquette to decor helps create a cohesive look. Tufted leather banquettes suit upscale steakhouses, for example.
- Strategic placement defines seating nooks and helps restaurants feel warm and inviting, rather than cavernous.
- Some banquettes feature modular designs allowing sections to be rearranged or added as needed.
- Floating banquette frames keep the space below open for easy cleaning.
- High backs crafted from wood, etched glass, or ornate materials create visual interest.
Properly designed, banquettes can be one of the most comfortable and attractive seating options in restaurants. They put guests at ease while maximizing space efficiently.
Study Room Banquette
For a dorm room, home office, or any space where you want a comfy spot to study or work, a banquette along the wall could be the perfect addition. A study banquette can transform a bare wall into a productivity powerhouse.
Key elements that make banquettes fantastic for study spaces:
- Incorporate electrical outlets, USB ports, and cable cutouts so you can plug in laptops, phones, and other devices.
- Upholster the banquette in faux leather or another easy-to-clean material to stand up to coffee spills, crumbs, etc.
- Add a movable ottoman that can be pulled up for a makeshift desk or footrest.
- Design a banquette long enough so you can stretch out fully with textbooks and notebooks.
- Floating banquette frames provide visible floor space which helps rooms feel more open.
- Add a hinged seat to reveal hidden storage for books, folders, and supplies.
- track lighting overhead provides directional illumination for reading.
- If space allows, make the banquette extra deep so you can lean back against the wall comfortably.
With the right amenities, a thoughtfully designed study banquette provides an excellent workspace in a relatively small footprint.
Kids’ Playroom Banquette
Few things beat a comfy, cushy banquette when you’re a kid! These playful seats can be a whimsical addition to a playroom. Consider the following design tips:
- Choose durable, easy-to-clean fabrics since spills and stains are inevitable! Microfiber or faux leather are good options.
- Incorporate a secret storage compartment to house favorite toys and books.
- Make the banquette low to the ground so kids can easily climb up (and parents can relax).
- Add fun, playful details like colorful piping, button tufting, or embroidered designs.
- Choose a corner banquette configuration to maximize play space in the middle of the room.
- Add plush, kid-friendly pillows for extra cushioning.
- Under lighting transforms the banquette into a fun place for telling stories and building forts.
- Allow space around the perimeter so the banquette doesn’t obstruct doorways or toy storage.
Finding a balance between comfort, durability, and fun is the key to creating a kids’ banquette they’ll love!
Underground Speakeasy Bar Banquette
For basement bars designed to emulate prohibition-era speakeasies, a moodily lit banquette instantly sets the vibe. A few tips:
- Choose rich, luxurious fabrics like velvet or leather that feel indulgent. Add subtle sheen for dim light reflection.
- Incorporate ornate details like button tufting, nailheads, or turned wood feet for dramatic effect.
- Illuminate the banquette with Edison bulbs, carriage lights, or mood lighting placed subtly overhead or behind.
- Arrange the banquette seating in an L-shape or U-shape to define a conversational seating area.
- Set the banquette against a bold wallpaper, wood paneled, brick, or stone backdrop for dramatic visual interest.
- Instead of matching banquette upholstery to the walls, opt for contrast and go darker. The banquette will really stand out.
- Place a small cocktail table with stools at the open end of the banquette to create an intimate drinking area.
Mysterious banquette seating helps replicate the dark, cozy ambiance of underground bars in any basement space.
Nursery Banquette
For nurseries short on floor space, a wall-mounted banquette is perfect for providing a comfy seating and storage option for parents. Consider the following design ideas:
- Ensure the banquette is generously padded for middle-of-the-night feedings and rocking baby to sleep.
- Add a concealed storage compartment underneath the banquette cushions to house diapers, blankets, and other nursery necessities.
- Choose stain-resistant, durable fabrics that will withstand inevitable messes as baby gets older.
- Consider a C-shaped or U-shaped banquette that wraps around a corner to save space.
- Add coordinating throw pillows in cheerful patterns and prints to liven up the banquette.
- Opt for low seated height and no sharp corners for baby’s safety once mobile.
- Incorporate electrical outlets in the banquette framework to keep devices charged up.
- Attached the banquette to the wall securely so it can bear weight without toppling over.
For nursery furniture that multitasks, a banquette with seating and storage fits the bill beautifully.
Reading Nook Banquette
As an alternative to a bulky window seat, try installing a banquette in a sunny reading nook. Follow these tips:
- Site the banquette under a window facing a leafy outdoor view. Natural light is ideal for reading.
- Maximize comfort with extra deep dimensions and plush back cushions.
- Add a movable ottoman or cushions to prop your feet up as you read.
- Keep the design streamlined and neutral to avoid visual clutter.
- Incorporate discreet storage under the seats to stow books and e-readers when not in use.
- Layer in cozy throws and plenty of pillows in warm, inviting fabrics for curling up with a great book.
- Add a drink shelf or side table to set down refreshments as you read.
- Offer concealed lighting like discreet floor lamps or wall sconces for nighttime reading.
Well-situated banquettes illuminated by natural light create the perfect escape for bookworms.
Entryway Bench Banquette
An entryway banquette is a fabulous alternative to a traditional bench. Follow these design tips:
- Choose a long, rectangular shape to span a length of wall adjacent to the entry door.
- Minimize mud and shoes by recessing the banquette slightly to keep it out of the main walkway.
- Make the banquette low profile without too high a back to avoid blocking wall art or doorways.
- Upholster the banquette in durable, easy-to-clean fabrics in case of spills and dirty shoes.
- Add convenient hooks, shelves, or cabinets on the wall above to store bags, keys, pet leashes and other entryway essentials.
- Incorporate storage drawers or lift-top compartments concealed within the banquette.
- Float the banquette a few inches off the floor to facilitate vacuuming underneath.
- Cover the banquette in stain-resistant fabrics or easy-to-clean slipcovers.
An entryway banquette minimizes clutter while providing welcoming seating to take shoes on and off.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are so many creative ways to incorporate banquette seating into commercial and residential spaces. Banquettes are chameleon-like fixtures that pair well with a wide range of decor styles from traditional to contemporary.
Whether you are looking to add a cozy breakfast nook, a fun playroom reading spot, a hotel-inspired lobby, or any other type of banquette seating, focus on choosing upholstery and design details that make sense for the intended purpose. Maximize comfort, storage, utility and visual aesthetics.
With so much flexibility in size, shape, and style, it’s no wonder banquettes continue to be a popular choice for seating. Consider adding one of these versatile architectural gems to your next interior design project.
Frequently Asked Questions About Banquettes
What are the main benefits of banquette seating?
Some key advantages of banquettes include:
- Space saving since they’re built-in and hug the contours of a room.
- Comfort with their plush, couch-like seating and high backs.
- Versatility to suit many decor styles and purposes.
- Intimacy and coziness by defining sitting areas.
- Ability to incorporate storage within the base.
What types of spaces work well with banquettes?
Banquettes work wonderfully in:
- Restaurant dining areas
- Home breakfast nooks
- Kitchens
- Bars & lounges
- Waiting areas
- Family rooms
- Home theaters
- Game rooms
- Mudrooms
- Dorm rooms
- Nurseries
- Retail stores
- Coffee shops
What shape options are there for banquettes?
Popular banquette shapes include:
- Straight or rectangular
- L-shaped
- U-shaped
- C-shaped
- Circular
How much seating space do banquettes provide?
The seating capacity of a banquette depends on its length and depth. However, on average banquettes provide seating space for 3-6 people comfortably.
What are banquettes typically made of?
Banquettes consist of:
- A sturdy base built from wood, metal, or a combination.
- Cushions upholstered in fabric, leather, vinyl or other materials.
- A back support also upholstered in coordinating materials.
How can you incorporate storage into a banquette?
Popular banquette storage options:
- Drawers under the base
- Lift-top seats to access storage cavities
- Doors to concealed areas within the end caps or backs
- Attached cabinets overhead
