Antique Benches
Benches are great for creating a sense of community and being closer to your loved ones. Perfect for the indoors and out, the modern hospitality industry has embraced this classic design feature to bring people together at a time when technological innovations have led us further apart. Bring a sense of this togetherness into your own home with an antique bench from our characterful collection at Vinterior.Antique benches are associated with a place of tranquillity, contemplation, and orientation. Symbolically associated with learning or trying to find a deeper meaning in life, benches were originally the preserve of wealthy elites during the times of the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. Used for reclining, relaxing, pondering, and pontificating, the humble bench has become a mainstay piece for people all over the world.Antique benches are especially useful to your outdoor space to provide a more interactive and holistic experience in your garden. Cultivate a restful space and provide somewhere for your guests and yourself to enjoy a slower pace for a while with the antique benches for sale in our marketplace.
Choose a Wish List
Create Wish List
What are the origins of antique benches?
Popular with the Romans and the Medieval civilisation, benches were often used in contrast to antique chairs and were reserved for people of high status who had leisure time to recline. Antique benches were versatile for sitting, eating from or sleeping on. From the 16th century, benches became even more decorative with many of the finest craftsmanship going to creating pews for grand churches and cathedrals.
The most recognisable and spectacular benches were made in the 17th century in the colonies of South America and are especially notable for their carved crests and balustraded backs that were painted and gilded.
What are some common styles of antique benches?
Antique benches can be freestanding, fixed to a wall or placed against a wall. Below we look at some key styles of antique benches:
Storage Benches
Doubling as space and a place to sit, storage benches are versatile accent pieces. Storage benches are utilized best in an entryway, family room, or bedroom. Commonly, you’ll find antique monk’s benches in our collection.Accent Benches
Known as a decorative piece, accent benches are useful to fill a blank wall or floor space. Good for added seating, it is a place to rest throws, clothes or books, adding to the lived-in character of your home.Entryway Benches
Commonly made in hard-wearing wood like elm, these benches can be sometimes upholstered. Their key characteristic is storage space for bags, shoes, hats and gloves. They also provide you and your guests a place to sit while removing footwear or jackets.Vanity Benches
These antique benches are often used in a bedroom or bathroom. They are smaller and built for one person. Less prominent in the house, they can be hidden under a bathroom counter or vanity table.