Space-Saving Elegance: How to Build a Custom Kitchen Banquette
Transform an underused corner into the coziest spot in your home
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Built-in banquettes aren't just beautiful—they're brilliant space-savers that transform awkward corners and underutilized walls into cozy, functional seating areas. This weekend project combines stylish design with practical storage, creating the perfect spot for family meals, working from home, or catching up with friends over coffee.
What You'll Need
| Base cabinets (kitchen wall cabinets work well) |
| 3/4" plywood for seating surface |
| 2x4 lumber for frame support |
| Medium-density foam (3" thick) |
| Upholstery fabric (3-5 yards) |
| Staple gun and staples |
| Circular saw |
| Drill and screws |
| Decorative pillows (optional) |
How To Build It
- Measure and plan - Sketch your design and take precise measurements of your space. The standard bench height is 18" and depth is 16-20".
- Install base cabinets - Secure your base cabinets to the wall studs and floor. These will form the foundation of your banquette and provide valuable storage.
- Build the frame - Create a wooden frame using 2x4s on top of the cabinets, ensuring it's level and properly supported.
- Attach the seating surface - Cut plywood to size and secure it to the frame with screws.
- Add cushioning - Cut foam to match the bench dimensions, allowing a slight overhang on all sides.
- Upholster - Wrap the foam and plywood with your chosen fabric, pulling it taut and stapling it to the underside of the plywood.
- Attach the bench top - Secure your upholstered bench top to the frame with screws from underneath.
- Add finishing touches - Install trim pieces to hide any gaps and add decorative pillows for comfort and style.
DESIGNER TIP
Choose a performance fabric for your banquette upholstery that repels stains and is easy to clean—especially important for dining areas! Crypton, Sunbrella, or a fabric treated with Scotchgard are excellent options that combine durability with style. Opt for a cushion with a zipper so you can remove and wash the cover when needed.
