How to Choose the Best Entryway Bench: Function Meets Style

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The entryway sets the tone for your home, and the right bench can turn this space into a stylish, welcoming, and highly functional area. Whether you live in a small apartment or a spacious house, an entryway bench helps you stay organized while adding a decorative touch. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the perfect entryway bench for your needs.

1. Understand the Purpose of Your Entryway Bench

Before picking a style or material, consider how you want to use your bench:

Seating: A spot to sit while putting on or removing shoes.

Storage: Hidden compartments or cubbies for shoes, bags, scarves, and gloves.

Decor: A place to display cushions, throws, or decorative baskets.

Multifunction: Some benches come with coat hooks, shelving, or even charging stations.

Knowing the primary use will help narrow down your options.

2. Measure Your Entryway Space

Size matters—especially in a small or narrow entryway. Here’s what to measure:

Length of the wall: Make sure the bench fits without overwhelming the space.

Depth of the bench: Typically ranges from 14 to 18 inches. Go shallower for tighter spots.

Height: Standard bench height is about 18 inches, which is comfortable for sitting.

Leave room for foot traffic and consider nearby doors, closets, or stairways.

3. Choose a Style That Complements Your Home

Your bench should match your home’s aesthetic while enhancing the entryway's vibe:

Modern

Clean lines, sleek materials, minimal design.

Metal or lacquered finishes.

Rustic

Weathered wood, earthy tones, and a farmhouse feel.

Traditional

Elegant wood, curved legs, tufted upholstery.

Industrial

Metal frames, distressed wood, and bold finishes.

Bohemian

Woven rattan, colorful cushions, and layered textiles.

Make sure the style flows well with nearby rooms or visible living spaces.

4. Pick the Right Material

Durability and appearance go hand in hand. Consider:

Wood: Solid wood like oak, pine, or acacia is sturdy and timeless.

Metal: Great for industrial or modern homes—durable and easy to clean.

Upholstered: Comfortable and cozy, but may need more maintenance.

Wicker or Rattan: Lightweight, great for coastal or boho styles.

Look for materials that match your lifestyle and can handle daily wear and tear.

5. Think About Storage Options

Many entryway benches come with built-in storage:

Cubbies: Perfect for organizing shoes or baskets.

Drawers: Ideal for small items like gloves or keys.

Lift-top: A hidden storage solution that keeps clutter out of sight.

Shelves: Open design for decorative bins or easy access.

For high-traffic homes, storage is a must-have feature.

6. Add Comfort with Cushions or Upholstery

If you’ll be sitting frequently, consider:

Built-in upholstery: Comes pre-padded with fabric or leather.

Add-on cushions: Choose your own color or texture to match your décor.

Look for removable, washable covers for easy maintenance.

7. Consider Hooks and Hall Trees

Some benches come as part of a hall tree set:

Bench with back panel: Includes hooks, a mirror, and upper storage.

Wall-mounted hooks above the bench: Great for hanging coats, bags, and hats.

Combo pieces: Bench, shelving, and coat rack in one unit.

This is a space-saving solution for busy entryways.

8. Make It Personal

Use accessories to style your bench area:

Throw pillows or blankets for comfort and color.

Baskets under or on the bench for added texture and storage.

Artwork or mirrors above the bench to complete the look.

Plants nearby to bring in freshness and life.

This helps tie the entryway into the rest of your home’s style.

9. Maintenance and Durability

Your entryway takes a beating—so pick something that’s:

Easy to clean (wipeable surfaces or machine-washable cushions).

Scratch-resistant and water-resistant (especially in rainy/snowy areas).

Well-built with quality joinery or reinforced frames.

Look for reviews if buying online to assess long-term durability.

10. Budgeting for Your Entryway Bench

There’s something for every budget:

Under $100: Basic benches without storage or DIY assembly.

$100–300: Great variety of styles and materials with some storage.

$300–600: Designer styles, solid wood, multipurpose pieces.

$600+: Premium pieces with integrated storage, built-ins, or custom designs.

Buy for your needs but consider long-term use and quality.

Final Thoughts

An entryway bench is more than a piece of furniture—it’s the first impression guests get of your home and a cornerstone of your daily routine. Whether you need a cozy spot to lace up your shoes, a stylish way to keep clutter in check, or a warm welcome after a long day, the right bench can do it all.

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HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST ENTRYWAY BENCH: FUNCTION MEETS STYLE

How to Choose the Best Entryway Bench: Function Meets Style