Luxury storage furniture is growing in popularity and taking UK homes by storm. While every home needs ample space to store household items, this is particularly challenging in the UK as the lack of—or minimal—existing storage space is a common inconvenience.
Many homes actually do have various spaces available around the house that can be used, but they’re often awkwardly placed, and the effort it takes to make use of them typically eliminates the entire objective. This leaves homeowners with no choice but to add storage of their own. While, in theory, this doesn’t sound like a problem, for those who’d like to add storage space to their homes while still maintaining their high-end aesthetic, guidance from seasoned experts is essential.
If you don’t know what you’re doing, any added cabinets or shelves can diminish the elegance of your space and make it appear cluttered and untidy. But, fear not, we have insider tips from leading interior designers on how to solve this problem with the sophistication and refinement of storage benches.
It’s safe to say that bench furniture with storage has evolved significantly. Though the space it offered was always much needed and appreciated, many older designs detract from a luxury interior aesthetic. There are still many designs that offer you the space you need, but don’t do justice to your decor. So, a keen eye and clear understanding of which styles add to the atmosphere you’ve created are crucial.
Bespoke storage benches not only serve to store your items in a clean, safe space but also enhance whatever space you choose to place them in. These furniture pieces are not only crafted to preserve your goods but also to add visual impact.
When you hear “storage bench”, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?
Typically, the term conjures an image of that bedroom bench storage at the foot of the bed, or perhaps you visualise those stylish entryway seats that people use to sit on when they’re removing their shoes, but our designers are here to tell you there are so many other innovative ways to utilize this underestimated piece of furniture.
Most of us have developed the habit of using them only as we see them displayed in stores or catalogues that we miss out on their extraordinary other uses.
This is generally as bed-ends, sideboards, or just random storage against the wall in the middle of nowhere in your house.
In the next section, we’re going to dive into some other ingenious ways you can put your storage bench on display.
Customise your bench by incorporating shelves and comfy cushions that complement your home’s decor style. The shelves can be used to house books and various other embellishments while you cosy up with a book or magazine. The storage below can then be used for a variety of items like throw blankets and a seasonal change of cushions.
This is a terrific solution for those who don’t have a designated space for their shoes. Instead of having your shoes laying around or out for everyone to see, storage benches allow you to store them neatly and out of sight until you need them again. They can be made from a variety of materials, and for those looking to protect their shoes from bugs, cedar benches are perfect.
It helps if they’re built in, but that is not an integral part of this form of use. Window lounging on your storage bench can be a great spot for you to read or drift away in thought as you enjoy the view and get sun-kissed. Building your window seat in is a great option if you want your bench to match the dimensions of the space exactly.
You can transform your seating and storage solution into a bar ensemble that not only stores your drinks and any equipment needed for serving but also acts as a serving station. It’s convenient and takes up much less space than an actual bar area, so for those with limited entertaining space, this idea is an amazing hack.
Create a space where you can sit and get ready in the morning without having to run to the bedroom to fetch forgotten toiletries or ones the bathroom cabinet was just not big enough to store. Add a comfy cushion to ensure you are not uncomfortable as you prepare for your day ahead. While the bench is used as a vanity, you can still store any other bathroom items in need of a home.
You must be thinking there’s no way a storage bench can double as a stylish coffee table, right? Well, they can be custom-made to suit any design aesthetic, and using high-end materials will ensure they agree with your home’s style. Just add a unique tray and some small decor accents to it, and you’ve got yourself a combination of storage, seating and a coffee table/bench.
Picture walking into your home and being greeted by an elegantly crafted storage bench with mesmerizing succulents or plants sitting beautifully in a row. You can either place them in your entryway, corridor or anywhere that works for you. This is a beautiful way to display your greenery in a sophisticated and organized manner.
Not only are they perfect for storing pool floaties, chemicals, and small equipment, they can also act as additional seating for patio sets. You might also find them useful when lounging next to the pool and you need a little cooler box to hold your drinks—this way, you beat having to run in and out to get your refreshments. Just be sure to check for weather-proof options.
Still not convinced? You can always use them in your wardrobe, as dining table seating, or under the stairs as well. For those wanting to take their storage bench to a transcendent plane, consider adding a few custom features to the ones you plan to use as focal points.
Some features include adding LED lighting to the outside or inside of the bench and witness this conversation starter steal the show. You can also include features like having the top extend into a full-on workstation so you have another place to work on your laptop! They are highly functional and stylish furniture pieces, and, with the right guidance, they can act as a centrepiece in any area.
Choosing the right storage bench obviously depends on a variety of things, like what you’ll be using it for, where it will be placed, how frequently you plan to use it, and so forth.
Below are some of what our experts deem essentials to consider when choosing your storage bench:
It goes without saying the right material is vital. A reading nook cannot be made from only metal, and outdoor storage cannot be made from water-sensitive wood, so base your decision on the level of durability you need. While they can be custom made, they usually come in leather, metal, wood, plastic, and fabric.
At FCI London, we pride ourselves on the 30+ years of knowledge and experience we’ve gained working alongside the most informed and cultured experts in the industry. We’ve spent years expanding our collection of only the finest quality and the most innovative designs that are sure to check all of your boxes.
Our leading interior designers have constructed a breathtaking showroom that spans 30,000 square feet and is home to hundreds of only the best luxury brands—every one of them is just waiting on your call for help so they can demonstrate their expertise and meet you exactly where you need them.
They’ve dedicated their time to helping clients turn their creative goals into awe-inspiring realities and are available seven days a week for your convenience. Our sample libraries are designed to make visualizing your dreams as easy as possible while getting expert advice from masters of the trade. Explore the various textures and designs at your disposal, or work side-by-side with a professional to craft something truly unique and just for you. Book your free appointment now and enjoy free parking, exclusive discounts and immediate delivery!
For the best advice on storage furniture, consult our award-winning designers today.
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