The Many Uses of the Typical Patio Backless Bench

Lynn, a mom and a mother of three, sent us this question: “We just moved into a new home with a huge backyard, and I intend to make the most of this space. I would love to add some seating, like maybe an outdoor bench. Are there other ways that I creatively use it, aside from just being an outdoor  furniture piece to rest your bottom on?”

A patio backless bench creates an inviting yard seat.  Arrange them in such a way to take advantage of the sun or shade, while providing spaces where groups of people can gather. Make better use of a yard’s features and garden areas and design for outdoor living by considering the style and material of the bench.  Select from classic and durable stone or wrought-iron benches, country-style wicker love seats, and bench swings; tropical rattan or bamboo benches with backrests; or casual, backless picnic benches.

Before anything else, choose features to use a focal points for your backyard benches. For example, a pond, fountain, table, fire pit, flower bed, shade tree or sunny spot with a view of the children’s play area. Measure any areas where fit is a concern, like in between two trees. Measure a patio or other group seating area to help decide how many benches you will need.

• Look into benches that do double-duty. Put a storage bench like the Deluxe Sauna Bench by All Things Cedar near the back door for gardening supplies. There are even compost benches. Planter benches create a pleasing effect with seating and flowering plants or herbs.

• Consider a backyard bench swing. These include gliders with their iron frames and porch swings. Many free-standing models come with an awning that helps reduce the risk of sunburn. Bench swings and gliders are available in metal, wood, wicker and recycled materials.

• Creating a seating group with backyard benches. Create a seating group with backyard benches. Consider how many people you will need to seat, like the number of people in your family and the number of guests that you typically expect. Put a group of benches like the Cambridge 2-Seater Backless Bench by Anderson Teak around a fire pit or fountain for informal family gatherings.

• Put a love seat in a sheltered area of the garden. This is the most romantic use of a backyard bench. Choose a simple one like the Bench X60 by Vifah Modern Patio and put it in a spot with a view of the stars.

Make sure that you leave room between the benches in a group. This will allow you to expand the seating with chairs for larger gatherings. In cooler climates, benches made of stone, metal or concrete get too cold for seating comfort. Cushions made from fade-resistant fabric make for great accessories.

Have your benches delivered if possible, as many styles are heavy. Ask if the product arrives fully assembled. Also, check weight limits of outdoor furniture to reduce risk of injury. For instance, do not allow too many people at a time on a bench swing.