\baŋ-ˈket, ban-, 1b is also ˈbaŋ-kət\
a. a long upholstered bench
b. a sofa having one roll-over arm
c. a built-in usually upholstered bench along a wall
I love banquettes. They provide a function seating area, with more interest than your typical sofa or chairs. While often built-in, they can also be an armless sofa at the dining table or simple window seat. Enjoy this collection of a few of my favorite banquettes.
A New Orleans home, by designer Melissa Rufty, cleverly uses the space under the staircase with a custom built-in banquette. So much more inviting than a sofa! House Beautiful Magazine.
This breakfast nook by Mary McDonald,features a bench/window seat style banquette. As she says, "It brings a nice feeling to any place where you're going to want to sit and get cozy" Veranda Magazine.
Not a built-in, but definitely qualifies as a banquette and an interesting seating arrangement. Celerie Kimble, House Beautiful Magazine.
Banquette at Old Charm Bed & Breakfast in PA. Read about it at Michael, the Innkeepers blog, Inspired by Charm.
Above and below: this tiny apartment has brilliantly adapted the banquette to maximize use and space. It serves as a sofa (above) and a dining area (below). Read more about this little purple gem at House Beautiful.
Above and below - the Colorado Home of the Year 2010, by Andrea Schumacher at O Interior Design, features 2 banquettes in the dining room (above) and nook (below). Colorado Homes and Lifestyles Magazine.
Above and below: the Banquette that inspired this whole blog post. Designer Tobi Fairly added this very dramatic tufted banquette as comfortable alternative seating in this dining room. I'd say that is as interesting as any art piece, and more functional. House Beautiful Magazine.
Do you notice anything else wonderful about these banquettes? How about those mixed up pillows?
Beautiful Habitat: Interior Design & Decoration www.beautifulhabitat.com
1 comment:
Saw your post on Facebook. LOVE these images, and they do show why banquettes are such a beautiful option.I especially like the one that's tucked under the staircase. SO cozy!
When I was growing up, my best friend had a "window seat," which I suppose was a more simplified version of a true banquette. It was my favorite place to curl up with a book.
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