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Is your hallway a permanent home for discarded shoes and bags? Do you wish you had extra seating in the living room that didn't add to the clutter? An ottoman bench is one of the most versatile pieces of furniture you can own, offering a clever combination of seating, storage and style.
However, with so many options available, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide is designed to help you understand what to look for in an ottoman bench, ensuring you choose a piece that perfectly suits your space, needs and home decor.
Before you start browsing, considering a few key factors will help narrow down your search and lead you to the ideal choice for your home.
The first step is to decide where your ottoman bench will live. Will it be a welcoming hallway bench to sit on while putting on shoes? Or perhaps an end of bed bench to hold decorative cushions and store extra bedding?
Measure the length, width and height of the intended space. For an end of bed bench, a good rule of thumb is to select one that is slightly narrower than the width of your bed frame to maintain a balanced look. In a hallway, ensure there is enough room to walk past comfortably once the bench is in place.
Consider your primary need. Are you looking for a dedicated storage bench to conceal clutter, or is your main goal an elegant upholstered bench for extra seating? Many models offer both. A bedroom storage bench with a hinged lid is excellent for stowing away blankets and pillows, while a simple upholstered bench can add a touch of comfort and style to a living room or landing.
An ottoman bench should complement your existing decor. A classic tufted ottoman upholstered in a neutral fabric can add a touch of timeless elegance to a room. For more contemporary or Scandinavian-inspired interiors, a linen bench with clean lines and simple wooden legs is an excellent choice. Pay attention to the material's durability and cleaning instructions—linen-look polyester, for example, often provides the aesthetic of linen with easier maintenance.
As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to sift through the options to find practical and well-designed pieces. Here are a few recommendations that stand out for their blend of style, function and value.
Why It Stands Out This model combines a classic aesthetic with substantial storage capacity. The elegant tufted design and neutral beige upholstery make it a versatile addition to traditional or transitional living rooms and bedrooms. Its generous length provides ample seating and a surprisingly spacious interior.
Pros
Who is it for? This is an excellent choice for anyone needing a significant amount of discreet storage without compromising on traditional style. It works beautifully as an end of bed bench in a master bedroom or as a statement piece in a living room.
Key Specifications:
Why It Stands Out With its clean lines, neutral grey linen and angled rubberwood legs, this bench is a perfect fit for modern and Scandinavian-inspired homes. The focus here is on comfortable, stylish seating, with an exceptionally thick padded top that invites you to sit down.
Pros
Who is it for? Ideal for those who prioritise comfortable seating over storage. Its sleek and understated design makes it a great addition to hallways, landings or at the foot of a bed in a contemporary bedroom.
Key Specifications:
Why It Stands Out This compact ottoman proves that you don't need a large space to benefit from smart furniture. Its modest dimensions conceal a useful storage compartment, while the dark grey upholstery and tapered wooden legs offer a sophisticated, modern look that blends into any room.
Pros
Who is it for? A great solution for renters or homeowners in smaller properties who need a multi-functional piece that serves as a seat, footrest and storage box without overwhelming the space.
Key Specifications:
If our recommendations aren't quite what you're looking for, or if you have a specific colour scheme in mind, there are many other options to explore. For instance, a beige ottoman can bring a warm, neutral touch to any room, and there are various styles available, from minimalist to ornate.
Discover our wider collection of beige ottomans to find your perfect match.
Can you sit on an ottoman bench? Yes, most are designed for seating. However, it is crucial to check the product's specified weight capacity to ensure it is used safely. All the models recommended here, for example, support a maximum load of 120 kg, making them suitable for everyday occasional seating.
What should I store in an ottoman bench? They are incredibly useful for decluttering. A bedroom storage bench is perfect for extra bedding, blankets and cushions. In a living room, they can hide magazines, remote controls and board games. A hallway bench with storage is ideal for shoes, scarves and umbrellas.
How do I choose the right size for an end of bed bench? A good aesthetic guideline is to choose a bench that is around 75-80% of the width of your bed frame. This ensures it looks proportional and doesn't protrude awkwardly at the sides. Also, check the height—it should ideally be no taller than the top of your mattress for a cohesive look.