35+ Best Deck Bench Ideas And Designs (With Pictures)
Imagine creating a backyard deck that’s not only visually stunning but also functional and inviting. Why settle for mediocre seating when you can design a built-in deck seat layout that welcomes visitors with comfort and ease? Your deck bench, whether curved or backless, tucked into a personal nook or running the length of your outdoor space, is an opportunity to create a seating area that reflects your personal style and serves as a focal point for relaxation and socializing.
While outdoor furniture can be great, what happens when the sitting capacity is surpassed or a more casual arrangement is required? A built-in deck bench provides a solution, offering a comfortable and stylish way to lounge while also allowing for seamless integration with the surrounding environment. With so many appealing designs available, you’re sure to find one that fits your unique aesthetic and enhances your outdoor space.
Bench with No Back
The backless bench is a timeless favorite among deck furniture enthusiasts. Its versatility, comfort, and visual appeal make it a popular choice for outdoor seating. One of its greatest strengths lies in its adaptability – you can easily incorporate storage compartments to transform it into a functional piece that serves multiple purposes. For those who prefer a more supported seating experience, the option to add a removable backrest is always available.
This understated design approach allows the bench to blend seamlessly with its surroundings, making it an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a low-key yet practical deck seating solution.
U-Shaped
When designing a seating arrangement for larger events, consider joining two L-shaped seats to create a U-shaped bench. This configuration not only saves space but also offers versatility, as it can accommodate individuals who prefer supported and backless chairs alike. The resulting layout also provides ample storage space, making it an ideal solution for outdoor gatherings where functionality is key.
With this setup, you won’t have to worry about moving seats or setting up decorations; simply place the bench in position and you’re ready to go.
Seating made of stone
While some homeowners may prefer wood decks, others opt for the elegance of stone patios. One way to achieve a built-in seating area without sacrificing space is by incorporating stone benches. These elegant features not only add a touch of sophistication to your outdoor environment but also provide a functional and practical solution.
When it comes to selecting materials, designers often recommend stone over concrete, allowing you to choose from a range of designs and styles that suit your taste. The beauty of stone seating lies in its durability and one-of-a-kind appearance. You can take it a step further by incorporating individual chairs or other design elements, making it entirely up to you to create the perfect outdoor space.
Your Multi-Level Deck Can Have Built-In Seating
When designing a multi-level deck, incorporating built-in seats can be a fantastic opportunity to create cozy nooks and inviting spaces. Some homeowners opt for an upper-level dining area, freeing up the lower level for more casual gatherings or lively dance parties. Alternatively, they might choose to incorporate seating on both levels of the stairs, creating a sense of flow and connection between the different areas.
Ultimately, the key is finding an arrangement that resonates with you – it’s your space, after all, and you’re the one who will be using it.
Floating Bench
Floating chairs, once a novel concept, have given rise to a wave of hovering furniture options. From desks and shelves to multimedia units, the trend has reached new heights. It was only a matter of time before floating deck benches joined the fray. This innovative design features pillars discreetly hidden beneath the surface, giving the illusion that the bench is, in fact, floating.
The result is an awe-inspiring addition to any outdoor space, perfect for hosting gatherings with friends and family or simply enjoying a quiet moment with loved ones.
Logs
If you’re faced with a fallen tree, whether it’s in your own yard or a neighbor’s, now’s the ideal time to turn it into something useful. One approach is to use a chainsaw to chop down the trunk, then repurpose the logs into deck benches or other outdoor seating solutions.
Before you start cutting, make sure to double-check the log heights to ensure they’re suitable for your intended use. You can do this by measuring them precisely or making an educated estimate.
Alternatively, you could cut the logs into smaller sizes to create child-friendly seating options, which is perfect if you’re aiming for a rustic atmosphere.
Seats made of brick
To elevate the ambiance of your outdoor patio or deck’s sitting area, consider introducing unique touches that reflect your personal style. One creative way to do this is by incorporating brick structures with timber seating areas. This harmonious blend can create a captivating focal point in your garden. If you’re looking to take it up a notch, consider installing a fire pit using the same stones used for the brick seat.
This will not only provide warmth on chilly evenings but also serve as a visual anchor, drawing people together to share stories and make memories around the crackling flames.
Maintaining Your Cool
When venturing outside on a scorching day, it’s not uncommon to find the experience unpleasant. The wood on your deck bench can become unbearable hot to sit on, visibility is limited, and overall, it’s an uninviting atmosphere. One clever way to mitigate this issue is by incorporating backs onto the seats and strategically positioning them opposite the peak heat intensity. This simple trick can significantly enhance comfort.
For added relief, consider placing these shaded areas under a sprawling tree or sturdy awning. If your outdoor space lacks any natural or artificial coverings, consider installing shade sails to provide protection and inject some visual interest into your yard. However, it’s crucial to ensure the sails harmonize with their surroundings, lest they appear jarring and comical.
Around the Tree on the Deck Bench
Innovative built-in deck bench options often revolve around incorporating natural elements, such as trees. Building a seat around an existing tree can be an efficient and visually appealing way to bring nature onto your deck. Not only does this method provide a unique seating area, but it also offers the added benefit of creating a shaded lounge space. The key is finding the perfect tree – one that complements the overall design and layout of your deck without overpowering it.
Simply construct a bench around the tree instead of cutting it down, allowing you to seamlessly integrate the natural element into your outdoor space.
Built-in Storage on a Deck Bench
The charm of combining functionality with aesthetics is undeniable. Integrating storage into your deck design can be a challenge, especially after the build process has begun. One effective and visually appealing solution is to incorporate storage into your deck seating. This approach grants you swift access to essential items like blankets, cooking utensils, and other outdoor necessities, simply by organizing them in this manner.
Alternatively, you could opt for a DIY approach and construct your own personalized deck bench with built-in storage. If that’s not your cup of tea, ready-made options are readily available from online retailers or local hardware stores. However, don’t forget to incorporate a secure mechanism to prevent unauthorized access, ensuring the contents remain safe and secure.
Bench made of poured concrete on a deck
While weatherization may eventually take its toll on even the most treated timber, there are materials that can provide a longer-lasting solution. Concrete, stone, and brick seats offer a durable alternative that can withstand the elements. However, it’s essential to consider the added expense of these options. Additionally, you’ll need to ensure your deck’s structural integrity is suitable for supporting a concrete bench.
If that’s the case, a well-designed concrete bench can become a striking focal point on your modern and trendy deck. To enhance comfort, consider adding plush pillows or cushions on top.
Modern
When it comes to contemporary deck seating, simplicity is key. The focus should be on clean lines, precise angles, and a limited color palette. A single solid hue works best for bringing cohesion to your design, whether you’re opting for a straightforward rectangular corner seat or something more dramatic like a wide triangular seat. Adding some texture to the mix can also be effective – consider incorporating outdoor wall panels as separators and backgrounds for your outdoor furnishings.
To take things to the next level, try pairing your basic patio deck bench arrangement with side table cubes and easy seat cushions. Finally, finish off the modern look by swapping out traditional wooden deck handrails for something more innovative, like window panes or diagonal wires.
Outdoor
When it comes to designing an outdoor seating area, choosing the right material for your deck bench is crucial. If you’re working with a weather-exposed deck, you’ll need something that can withstand the elements. Regular lumber just won’t cut it, and even pressure-treated timber has its limitations. Instead, consider investing in artificial decking, which boasts impressive resilience against wear and tear.
Just be aware that it may struggle to cope with intense sunlight, so consider adding some shading or protection. On the other hand, if you plan on relocating your outdoor seating frequently, a freestanding bench might be the way to go. Built-in hardwood seats are lovely, but they can be replaced with benches crafted from materials like wrought iron, cast aluminum, powder-coated steel, or even cast iron for added durability and style.
Patio
While the terms ‘deck’ and ‘patio’ are often used interchangeably, they actually describe two distinct architectural features. A patio refers to a paved area that can be covered or uncovered, firmly integrated into the floor plan of a building. In contrast, a deck is an elevated platform, typically exposed to the elements, and can be constructed from materials like WPC decking, wood, or synthetic substances. Decks usually lack roofing, although certain sections may be sheltered.
When it comes to placing a hot tub, a patio provides the ideal setting, especially when surrounded by comfortable bench seating, creating an inviting backyard retreat. If your patio is constrained in terms of space, consider incorporating storage benches to expand your outdoor storage capabilities and maximize your exterior living area.
Pergola
Pergolas are freestanding structures that offer partial shade and character to outdoor spaces. Their open design features columns supporting an overhead framework composed of beams or grids. This unique architecture allows for the cultivation of climbing plants like wisteria, which can be trained to cover the structure over time, creating a serene retreat. One way to enhance the ambiance is by building a small deck beneath the pergola and incorporating a comfortable garden bench.
A preexisting bench can be relocated to the perimeter or you can construct simple seats using natural materials to create a cozy seating area.
Porch
When it comes to creating a cozy atmosphere on your porch, incorporating bench seating along a pre-existing railing or wall is an excellent idea. Not only does it provide ample seating for guests, but it also adds a warm and inviting touch to the overall design. For a charming cottage-style vibe, consider placing a bench under a window and adding plush throw cushions to complete the look.
This layout is particularly well-suited for smaller porches, as it allows you to comfortably seat three or four people in a compact space, making it an ideal solution for those with limited square footage.
Rustic
When designing decks for lodges, cabins, and other informal structures, a rustic aesthetic is often preferred. One traditional option is to utilize stained timber deck boards, which can add a warm and welcoming touch. For a more weathered look, worn wood can also be used. To enhance the rustic feel of your deck seats, consider incorporating dark galvanized metal accessories or wrought iron elements.
Additionally, adding burlap cushions and repurposing an old window frame to hang over a bench can further enhance the overall ambiance.
Trex
Trex is a well-known brand that offers a unique type of decking material, known as composite decking. This innovative product is created by combining wood pulp with plastic film, resulting in a material that’s significantly tougher and more robust than traditional wood deck boards. The popularity of Trex decking has led to its use not only for decks but also for constructing various outdoor furnishings, including benches.
In fact, Trex offers a range of composite deck seats in different sizes and designs, from classic wooden benches to modern, sleek platforms. When it comes to colors, consumers can choose from a variety of hues, such as grey, black, dark green, and white, which are available in Adirondack and other popular designs.
Planter Boxes on a Deck Bench
When it comes to outdoor seating options, a deck seat with built-in planters is a timeless favorite among homeowners. This particular design features a backless bench flanked by planter boxes on either end, creating a beautiful and functional space for relaxation. The natural wood tone of this design adds an appealing touch, allowing the seat and surrounding patio to develop a lovely patina over time if left unstained.
Storage Deck Bench in L-Shape
The L-shape seat is a crowd-pleaser when it comes to deck benches. But what if you want to give it a unique twist? One way to do that is by incorporating storage seats with distinct features. For instance, you can repurpose an existing storage bench and turn it into a versatile storage solution for your deck. Not only will this add functionality to your outdoor space, but the armrests also allow you to recline comfortably while enjoying the view.
Whether you’re looking to create a cozy seating area or simply need a place to stash some essentials, a storage seat with an L-shape design can be a great option.
Deck Railing Alternatives
Positioning a built-in deck seat strategically on a small patio can have numerous advantages. For instance, you could create a functional outdoor space without sacrificing visual openness by installing a railing-patio bench combo. Alternatively, consider replacing the deck railing with modular furniture pieces that double as seating and workstations.
Planter Boxes on a Corner Deck Bench
The ‘Deck Bench Design’ boasts an unmistakable flair for style, making it a standout feature. The unique geometric shape of this built-in furniture is just one aspect that sets it apart. Additionally, the harmonious blend of multiple tones in the deck and bench treatments creates a visually stunning effect. To further elevate the design’s aesthetic appeal, planter containers are filled with vibrant flowering plants, resulting in a beautiful and inviting space.
Deck Bench with Unstained Railing
This rustic railing seat offers a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics, making it an excellent choice for your outdoor space. Its straightforward design belies its versatility, providing ample seating for you and your friends to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Moreover, its dual purpose as both a bench and a replacement for the deck railing creates a seamless, long-lasting seating area that’s perfect for casual gatherings or intimate moments with loved ones.
For those who appreciate a weathered, aged look on their deck and bench, this untarnished rail deck bench is an ideal solution.
Backless Benches for Dining
In contrast to traditional deck bench designs that typically line the perimeter of the deck, this innovative design creates an inviting eating area by combining the seats with a picnic table. This setup is particularly well-suited for larger decks, offering ample space for socializing and enjoying meals al fresco. The striking black hue of the backless seats adds to their charm, providing a stylish contrast to the warm, rich tones of the chocolate-colored deck.
Corner Deck Benches in Pale Shade
For those who prefer a lighter aesthetic, this unique deck and seat combination offers a refreshing alternative. The beige deck’s backless seats on the corners create a one-of-a-kind design that brings warmth to an otherwise cool gray wall. To inject some vibrancy into the space, consider adding colorful blooming plants to the flower pots, which can thrive in the deck’s setting.
Shady and Cool
As summer temperatures rise, many people seek refuge in shaded areas, often opting to sit beneath the canopy of a majestic tree. One way to create a serene retreat is by incorporating deck bench designs that cleverly utilize the natural shade provided by a large tree on your outdoor space. The result is a cozy oasis, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
The addition of seats with backs and inviting throw cushions only adds to the ambiance, making it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the warmth of the season.
Benches Placed Into the Railing on the Deck
When it comes to deck railing installations, these seats are designed to be used in tandem with the railings themselves. Constructed concurrently with the rail, they must meet all local railing code standards upon completion. As a result, benches can seamlessly integrate into any railing system through various means. One such approach is to utilize custom-made brackets specifically engineered for the project.
Bench with a Curve
Transform your deck’s curved space into a stunning seating area, freeing up the main space for other creative uses like a cozy fire pit, vibrant ballroom, or convenient snack table. The result is a unique and eye-catching bench that will undoubtedly be a showstopper on your outdoor living area. Imagine the envy of friends and family as they gather around this one-of-a-kind design – it’s sure to spark conversations and create lasting memories.
Opt for an Octagonal Shape.
If you’ve opted for an octagonal deck design, why not take it to the next level by incorporating built-in seating? By tracing out part of the curved perimeter with deck seats, you can create a cozy and inviting spot for conversation. To really make your bench and deck stand out, consider using a two-toned photo frame accent to draw attention to the unique angles.
This stylish touch will also complement any hexagonal or octagonal decking design perfectly, making it a great choice for adding visual interest to your outdoor space.
Multi-Width Decking is a great option.
Looking to add some visual flair to your outdoor space without going over the top? Consider opting for an upright bench featuring Multi-Width Decking seats. This unique design combines narrow (3.5 inches), regular (5.5 inches), and broad (7.25 inches) boards, resulting in a subtle yet sophisticated look that elevates your deck’s aesthetic appeal. Perfect for decks of any size or style, this modern take on traditional bench seating is sure to impress.
Keep your angles to the right.
Elevate your outdoor living space with an L-shaped seat cleverly integrated into the nook of your deck, boasting a sleek and minimalist design that maximizes functionality while minimizing visual impact. This thoughtful addition not only creates a cozy spot to sit and appreciate the breathtaking views on your lower level deck but also eliminates the need for a railing, ensuring unobstructed vistas.
With a high backrest, you can increase your privacy.
Transforming your built-in deck seating with a privacy screen can significantly enhance its functionality. Consider designing a tall backrest to create a secluded space, shielding your area from unwanted views or seamlessly integrate your seat layout into an existing privacy wall. This thoughtful approach will not only boost your sense of comfort and security but also encourage you to move around the deck with greater freedom.
Seating Area with Trellis
Inspired by the quest for solitude, this cutting-edge deck features a unique trellis seating area that wraps around to create an intimate retreat. The harmonious blend of curves between the trellis and built-in seat creates a sense of calm, inviting users to linger and unwind.
Seating in the Garden
The courtyard’s tranquil atmosphere is further enhanced by two strategically placed wooden benches, providing an ideal spot to appreciate the lush greenery that surrounds you. Meanwhile, a cleverly installed fan suspended from above brings relief on warm summer days, subtly warming the lounge area and creating a cozy ambiance.
Benches made of mahogany
As you gaze out at your beautiful vista from this traditional Arts and Crafts-inspired deck, take note of the thoughtful details that make it truly special. A concrete foundation laid with flagstone provides a sturdy base, while mahogany seats serve as both railings and comfortable seating for gatherings. This clever combination conserves space, adds functionality, and creates a unique design without breaking the bank.
When it comes to personalizing your outdoor area, there’s no need to break the mold or blow the budget. With deck benches, you can effortlessly conserve space, add more seating options, and modify the design to suit your style. The possibilities are endless, with a wide range of styles and arrangements to choose from.
As a DIY enthusiast or someone looking to dip their toes into the world of DIY projects, installing deck benches is an excellent place to start.
It’s a straightforward and forgiving endeavor that allows for easy corrections if needed. So why not take the plunge and try something new? The rewards will be well worth the effort.
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