The addition of a simple backyard bench can bring so much to your outdoor space, no matter the size of the backyard you have. Whether it's a small slither of balcony, or a larger space, your outdoor space can be given some extra meaning and focus with a backyard bench. 'Garden benches quietly suggest an invitation to repose, observe, and connect to nature, people and their surroundings,' says Susan Mitnick of Susan Mitnick Design Studio. 'Their presence can create a poetic moment and add an element of sculpture.'
Whether you're looking for a moment of quiet contemplation in your backyard or something sculptural to bring a decorative flair to your alfresco space, read on for my favorite shopping picks from the best outdoor furniture brands.
Oonagh is an interiors writer and editor, and expert at keeping up with trends from the world of interior design. For this story, she's scoured the web to find the best benches for any type of backyard.
Sculptural outdoor furniture
Why you can trust Livingetc Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
Your bench can really become a standalone work of art if you pick the right piece, lending your outdoor space a focal point. Here are three of my favorites.
Available in dark coal color or a lighter, neutral hue, the gentle swooping curve of this bench will lend a sculptural element and interest to any backyard space.
Made from naturally durable rattan reeds, the beautiful shape of this bench gives it its slightly Boho look, perfect for a summer's evening with a couple of bench cushions.
This red design makes for quite a statement. Inspired by wicker but made from iron, it's super durable. Any hardness from the material is softened by the bench's curves.
Best for relaxing
A bench is a perfect moment for quiet relaxation and tranquility, Picking the right bench for this task is also about finding the perfect spot in the backyard, and checking that your outrdoor bench isn't facing the wrong way, towards a view or a relaxing focal point. Here are three of my favorite benches to relax in.
The delicate curve of this bench makes steel look super soft. The precision of the curves ensures ergonomic comfort as well as a distinctive look in bright yellow.
Update your outdoor area with a modern Orlanda bench from Lulu and Georgia, with weather-resistant upholstered cushions for extra softness, and a solid teak frame.
Made from 100 percent acacia wood, this bench is weather resistant and a solid purchase for a relaxing outdoor space, complementing any entryway, poolside patio, or casual dining table.
Best for backless style
A backless style bench takes on a simple shape and might just work to shine a light on a quiet spot in the backyard without taking up too much visual clutter. These modern outdoor furniture pieces also worked well tucking neatly under your outdoor dining table.
With elegant lines and simple design, the Palissade bench is super weatherproof, made from powder-coated steel. Pair it with a dining table or give it its own space in the backyard to really shine.
Made from teak with brass capped hardware, this bench is influenced by Kelmscott Manor- Arts & Crafts textile designer William Morris's countryside home - and is a modern reenvision of Morris & Co.'s famous design.
Carved out of a single piece of polyethylene, this contemporary looking bench fully stands up against the elements and comes in an array of colorful options.
-
-
Can I use a soundbar as a central speaker? Yes but you shouldn’t, says our expert – here's why
While you technically can use some soundbars as a central speaker in a surround sound system, you really shouldn’t
-
What colors go with dark wood flooring? These are the 11 best paint shades to pair with your floors, from blue to coral
Choosing colors that go with dark wood flooring? These ideas from leading designers will help you nail a sophisticated scheme
-
12 of the very best grey rugs you can buy now – and they'll suit pretty much every kind of home
Grey rugs are a timeless classic and a long-lasting purchase for the home. Here's where to shop them now
-
Jute rugs are trending because they go with literally everything - here are the 12 best
These 12 jute rugs are in my shopping basket and they should be in yours too - they work in minimalist schemes or to link more maximalist designs
-
The 9 closet organizers that decluttering professionals will always buy for their clients to maximize clothes storage
These clever gadgets make closet organization easy by maximizing space and keeping clothes contained
-
These are possibly the 12 most stylish grilling accessories you can find – I'll be buying them to elevate my BBQs
Summer staples that will help your backyard barbecue reach new heights
-
Tiny table lamps are our shopping editor's favorite lighting trend right now – here are the 12 styles she's fallen for
Cute mini table lamps are a stylish addition to any room of the home. Here are 12 in my shopping basket
-
These 12 buys will help you perfect the mix of traditional and modern needed for a timeless, transitional-style kitchen
These transitional-style kitchen products will make the heart of the home the most charming, and high value space
-
From a chic water feature to an on-trend outdoor pouffe – these 12 buys will turn your backyard into a relaxing haven
This season, turn your backyard into a space for relaxing with these 12 essential buys to help you on your way
-
Minimalist outdoor furniture is trending – our Editor has picked 15 pieces to style a relaxed backyard
Minimalist, modern and organic outdoor furniture shapes and colors are trending - here are the 15 best pieces for a relaxed backyard
