Ideas for Corner Benchs & Cushions for Around a Kitchen Table

Adding bench seating to your kitchen offers an unusual twist on the idea of kitchen seating. Kitchen chairs give every person her own specific area, while bench seating pushes everyone together. It turns the kitchen table into a meeting spot, where conversation quickly forms. Ideas for corner benches and cushions around the kitchen table include ways to make the benches fit with the design of your kitchen. Does this Spark an idea?

Coordinating Colors

Select corner benches for the kitchen in a shade of wood that resembles the other types of wood found in the room. Use color-coordinated cushions to make the benches feel more comfortable and welcoming. A plain wood bench isn't very comfortable, but adding just a few cushions provides adequate padding. Use longer cushions on the bottom or seat of the corner bench and a few decorative throw pillows along the top for proper back support. Arrange the pillows an equal distance apart, giving each person a clear idea of how much space she has.

Decorative Benches

Decorate the corner kitchen benches with paint for a more custom look. The distressed method of painting is a good match for a country-style kitchen. Paint the bench in one color and lightly sand the wood, removing paint from areas of the surface. Apply a second coat of paint and then sand again. Keep alternating between sanding and painting, giving the piece a distressed look and finish with a new color of paint. Or, simply paint the wood in a neutral shade and use stencils with a second color of paint to customize the benches.

Colorful Cushions

Mix and match neutral colors and brighter colors in the cushions. Pick longer cushions for the seat of the bench, using a neutral shade such as khaki or cream. Gain inspiration from the design and style of your kitchen, choosing cushions that match the wall color or the color of your decorations. For example, pair brightly colored red and green cushions together in a kitchen with an apple motif. Opt for a color that closely matches the other items to avoid making the room look too busy.

Storage Benches

If you have a fairly small kitchen, use corner benches with hidden storage. The benches tuck into the corner of your kitchen, surrounding the table with adequate space for cushions and pillows. The top of the bench lifts up to reveal storage inside. Use the storage for tablecloths, napkins, pots, pans, extra dishes or anything else that you typically save for special occasions.