Give Your Bedroom Boho Flair With These Dreamy End of Bed Benches
Looking to give your bedroom an exotic, worldly makeover? Consider incorporating a bohemian-inspired end of bed bench for effortless style. These long, cushioned seats at the foot of your bed add both seating and storage while complementing your existing decor. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about choosing the perfect bench to complement your boho decor.
End of bed benches exude coziness and warmth. Their rich textures and natural materials like wood, rattan, and woven fibers reflect the carefree boho aesthetic. When styled with layers of dreamy pillows and throws, they become a welcoming oasis for relaxation at the end of a long day.
What is a Boho End of Bed Bench?
An end of bed bench is a long, cushioned seat designed to be placed at the foot of a bed. These benches are a hallmark of bohemian style decor, which embraces a relaxed, globally-inspired aesthetic. Key features of boho benches include:
- Natural materials like wood, wicker, rattan
- Textured or patterned upholstery
- Ample seat cushioning for comfort
- Approximately 2/3 to full width of the bed
- Optional storage space beneath the seat
- Distressed or intricately carved wood details
Unlike ottomans and chairs, end of bed benches are designed specifically for placement at the foot of the bed due to their proportions. Their elongated shape and ample seating area allow them to complement the bed visually. They provide a laidback spot for lounging near the bed in true bohemian fashion.
Benefits of an End of Bed Bench
End of bed benches offer both style and functionality. Here are some of the top benefits of incorporating one into your bedroom decor:
Additional Seating
The bench provides a space to comfortably sit when putting on shoes or socializing. The long seat can often fit two or more people. It's a more casual seating option than chairs.
Stylish Decor Accent
With their artisanal materials and global textiles, boho benches infuse any bedroom with exotic flair. They become a focal point and complement the bed aesthetically.
Provides Storage Space
Many end of bed benches offer discreet hidden storage under the cushioned seat. This is perfect for storing extra linens, pillows, or seasonal clothing items.
Makes Getting Ready Easier
Having a designated seating area at the end of the bed makes daily routines like getting dressed easier. You have a spot to sit while putting on shoes or selecting an accessory.
Cozy Relaxation Spot
The bench becomes a comfy nook for lounging with a cup of coffee, reading a book, or just enjoying the room's ambiance. Top it with pillows and throws to enhance the coziness.
Materials for Boho Benches
When it comes to achieving that breezy bohemian look, materials make all the difference. Here are some top options for boho bench materials:
Wood
Wood brings natural warmth and texture. Opt for reclaimed or distressed wood with visible knots, grains, and imperfections for a timeworn appearance. Carved details like lattice add visual interest.
Rattan/Wicker
For tropical flair, choose rattan or wicker benches woven from natural fibers. The visible weave has an organic, casual feel perfect for boho spaces.
Upholstery
Look for bohemian fabrics like cotton, linen, or vibrant global prints. Tufted cushions or smooth upholstery in suede and leather also give a cozy, inviting look.
Mix and Match
Eclectic boho style is all about blending different materials and patterns. Try pairing a woven rattan base with luxurious velvet cushions for an intriguing combo.
Styles of Boho Benches
From rustic wooden benches to intricately embroidered upholstered seats, you can find boho benches in endless styles. Some top options include:
Woven and Textured
For lots of tactile appeal, choose benches made of woven abaca, wicker, rattan, jute, or seagrass. The visible weave has an earthy, relaxed vibe.
Distressed and Reclaimed Wood
Benches made from salvaged barn wood, reclaimed lumber, or wood with visible nicks, cracks, and repairs have a timeworn, well-loved appearance.
Carved Wood
Opt for benches with ornate hand-carved details like floral motifs or geometric lattice designs. This adds bohemian character.
Upholstered
Find upholstered benches ranging from tufted to smoothly upholstered. Choose vibrant global prints or natural linen. Suede and leather also have boho appeal.
Backed vs Backless
Backless benches have a more casual, lightweight appearance, while benches with backrests offer more support for lounging. Choose based on your needs.
With Storage vs Without
Look for benches with lift-up lids or built-in drawers to stash linens, clothing, or accessories conveniently out of sight.
Design Elements for Bohemian Style
Small details make a big impact when crafting a bohemian vibe. Incorporate these design elements for boho bench styling:
Incorporate Texture
Play with different tactile materials like chunky knits, macrame, distressed woods, and woven seagrass to echo the boho appreciation of handmade artistry.
Mix Colors and Patterns
Clashing colorful patterns in global prints, batiks, ikats, suzanis, and kilims reflect the bohemian love of creativity. Don't be afraid to mix and match.
Add Plants and Greenery
Incorporate trailing vines, hanging ferns, potted palms, and cut flowers to connect to nature. Place plants atop or around your bench for a living accent.
Natural Elements
Decorate with found objects like seashells, geodes, feathers, and carved wood beads to add organic personality. Display in dishes or bowls on the bench.
Soft, Diffuse Lighting
Use lamps with natural linen or paper shades to cast a warm glow over the bench area. String lights also create dreamy boho ambiance. Avoid harsh overhead lighting.
Pillows and Throws
Pile on the pillows! Layering cushions, bolsters, and throws in boho prints creates an inviting, lounge-worthy spot. Play with different textures like wool knits and velvet.
Bold, Bright Pops of Color
Add an unexpected color like emerald or mustard with a pillow or snuggled throw. This creates a vibrant, cheerful look true to bohemian style.
Boho Wall Art
Hang art or macrame wall hangings above the bench to complement the area's style. Choose abstract prints, nature scenes, or tribal designs.
Keep it Clutter-Free
Edit out excess accessories to keep your bench area feeling airy. Conceal seldom-used items in baskets, drawers, or under the bench.
Scale to Bedroom Size
Make sure your bench complements the proportions of the room. An oversized bench in a small space overwhelms, while a narrow bench gets lost in a larger bedroom.
Choosing the Right Bench Size
Selecting the properly sized bench ensures it fits both your space and storage needs. Follow these tips:
Measuring Bed Width
Measure the width of your bed's footboard to use as a guide for bench sizing. Most standard queen and king beds are 60-72 inches wide.
Bench Size Ratios
Look for a bench around 2/3 to the full width of your bed. For example, pair a 60 inch wide bed with a 40-60 inch bench.
Allow Walkway
Make sure to leave a walkway of 12-18 inches along both sides of the bed so you can easily get in and out.
Size for Needs
If you'll use it mostly for seating, opt for a longer bench. For max storage, choose a bench with compartments the full width of the bed.
Where to Buy Boho Benches
You can find end of bed benches from a variety of sources. Here are some top places to shop:
Online Retailers
Websites like Etsy, Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters, and World Market offer a wide selection of boho benches you can order online.
Bohemian Home Goods Stores
Check out boutiques and specialty shops focused on bohemian, eclectic, or world style furnishings. These carry unique bench finds.
Vintage and Secondhand Shops
Search thrift stores, antique shops, flea markets, and salvage yards for one-of-a-kind recycled benches with vintage charm.
DIY Options
Craft your own bench from scratch using materials like wood planks, wicker baskets, and upholstered seat cushions. This allows total customization.
Styling and Decorating Your Bed Bench
The styling possibilities are endless when decorating your dreamy boho bench. Bring it to life with these decor ideas:
Throw Pillows and Blankets
Loading up your bench with plush pillows and cozy woven blankets invites lounging. Choose boho textures like chunky knits, velvet, or sheepskins.
Poufs, Ottomans, Floor Cushions
Scatter Moroccan poufs, ottomans, and floor cushions around the bench to create a relaxed seating area.
Hanging Plants Above Bench
Suspending air plants or trailing vines from the ceiling above the bench instantly provides a leafy canopy. Display flowering plants on shelves just above.
Wall Art and Tapestries
Mount colorful abstract art prints, vintage botanical posters, or hand-woven tapestries behind the bench as focal points. Macrame wall hangings also complement the boho vibe.
Woven Baskets for Storage
Stash seasonal accessories like hats and scarves in woven baskets beneath the bench. This keeps clutter out of sight while adding texture.
Flowers, Books, Candles for Decor
Display favorite books, candles in earthy vessels, and fresh-cut blooms along the top of the bench. These accessories make it feel curated and lived-in.
With their artisanal materials and globally-inspired vibe, end of bed benches make a fabulous addition to any bohemian bedroom. They provide cozy extra seating along with stylish storage solutions. Choose an eclectic bench complementing your bed size and decor taste to fully embrace the beauty of boho style.
Incorporating a touch of exotic flair with an end of bed bench is an easy way to refresh your bedroom with the beauty of bohemian style. So go ahead - cozy up on your dreamy new seating oasis!