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Discover stylish garden bench ideas, from traditional timber to low-maintenance composite.
When designing your outdoor space, seating plays a crucial role in both style and function. Garden benches offer the perfect blend of comfort, practicality, and aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re looking for a natural, rustic feel with timber or a low-maintenance, modern option with composite materials, there’s a garden bench style to suit every garden.
In this blog, we will explore various timber and composite garden bench ideas to help you create a beautiful, functional outdoor area.
• Timber Benches – Natural wood adds warmth, character, and a timeless charm to any outdoor space. Both of our centres feature displays of a variety of garden seating and wooden garden benches for visitors to try. Our furniture is made out of hardwood or softwood, in a rustic or classic style. Whether you prefer two-seater garden benches, three-seater garden benches or single chairs, in a light or dark finish, we are guaranteed to have timber garden bench seating to suit your style and requirements.
• Composite Benches – Composite materials are a blend of wood fibers and synthetic resins, making them more resistant to the elements than traditional wood. Composite garden benches are low-maintenance, easy to clean, and incredibly durable. They offer the appearance of natural wood but without the frequent upkeep that comes with timber. Combining modern manufacturing with polymer materials, our Sandwick composite garden bench offers the natural appearance of wood and a wood grain effect in a practical, low maintenance package.
To keep your garden bench in great condition, regular maintenance is key. For wooden benches, apply a protective wood stain annually to prevent wear from the weather. Ensure that your bench is kept in a dry, sheltered location during harsh weather. With proper care, your garden bench will provide years of comfort and style.
Here are some creative garden bench ideas to inspire your next garden project:
A traditional wooden garden bench is a staple in many outdoor spaces. Its simple slatted design and sturdy construction create a comfortable seating area that blends seamlessly with various garden styles.
To enhance comfort, consider adding cushions or throw pillows in earthy tones to complement the natural wood tones. These benches are perfect for creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere by your flower beds, near a garden pond, or even under a shaded tree. Wooden benches are ideal for any part of your garden, especially areas where you want to create a peaceful, traditional seating spot.
Whether you’re looking for a three-seater wooden garden bench, or a cozy two-seater bench, our extensive range of timber wooden bench sets are guaranteed to suit your style.
If you’re looking for a sleek, contemporary bench with minimal maintenance, a composite garden bench may be the perfect option. These benches typically feature a clean, simple design that blends well with modern garden aesthetics.
Composite benches are incredibly durable and resistant to fading, splintering, or cracking. This makes them a great option for high-traffic outdoor areas or locations exposed to the elements. Since composite materials are highly resistant to moisture, these benches are perfect for areas near pools, fountains, or coastal gardens where timber might be susceptible to damage. They are perfect for modern gardens, patios, and deck areas.
A stylish addition to any garden, our Sandwick composite wood bench comes in a teak colour which perfectly complements any garden, patio or alcove style.
One of the easiest and most impactful ways to enhance a timber bench is by giving it a new coat of paint or stain. The right finish can completely change the feel of your garden space.
• Bold colours for a modern look – Consider painting your timber bench in vibrant hues like eggshell blue or lavender. Bright colours can bring a lively energy to your garden and make the bench stand out.
• Soft, earthy tones for a rustic appeal – If you want your bench to blend seamlessly with nature, opt for soft shades like mahogany, mushroom or pond green. These tones complement the natural wood grain and give the bench a timeless look.
• Staining for natural beauty – If you prefer to keep the natural beauty of the timber intact, consider using a wood stain. Darker stains like dark oak or ebony will add a sophisticated, rich tone to your garden bench, while lighter stains like cedar will highlight the wood’s natural texture.
Another fantastic way to enhance your timber bench is by adding plants around it, to create a tranquil and natural atmosphere.
• Planter Boxes – Place planter boxes next to your timber bench to create a seamless blend of seating and plant life. Choose plants with vines like ivy or trailing petunias for a lush, cascading effect.
• Trellis and Ivy – Install a wooden trellis behind your bench and allow ivy or climbing roses to wind around it. The result will be a soft, romantic backdrop, perfect for an afternoon of reading or relaxing.
For more inspiration and high-quality garden furniture and accessories, visit your local Earnshaws Fencing Centre. We have everything you need to transform your garden into a sanctuary.
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