When I first heard the term “banquette seating,” I pictured wealthy individuals with expensive taste who probably hired professional designers and had a perfectly coordinated dining setup. However, I later realized that a banquette is simply a comfortable bench placed by the table that you can easily create without breaking the bank.
My dining nook used to be awkward, too small for a regular table, yet felt empty when left unused. That’s when I decided to introduce a banquette. I didn’t need a carpenter or a huge budget; all I had was a free weekend and a fondness for cozy corner seats. Now, it’s the most popular spot in the house.
Here are a couple of ideas that helped give my DIY banquette a high-end look without the hefty price tag:
Utilize Kitchen Cabinets as a Foundation
Who would have thought that IKEA kitchen cabinets could double as seating? By securing Sektion cabinets to the wall and adding a plywood top, I was able to create an instant storage bench.
Invest in a Comfortable Cushion, Not Just a Throw Pillow
I cut a piece of foam to fit the bench, wrapped it in fabric using a staple gun, and suddenly, it looked intentional and inviting, as opposed to just a makeshift seating solution.
Wrap the Corners
If your banquette is going in a corner, embrace the L-shape. It feels built-in, even if you built it in a panic with leftover plywood and a dream.
Use Plywood + Trim to Fake Custom
One sheet of plywood and some cheap trim = magic. I added a little molding to the base, and suddenly people asked where I “had it done.” I lied. Obviously.
Paint It the Same Color as the Walls
Pro tip: paint the bench the same color as the wall, and it instantly blends in like a built-in. (Yes, even if it’s technically three repurposed cabinets and a prayer.)
Repurpose a Bookshelf
Turn an old bookshelf on its side, reinforce it, and add a top. It’s like a banquette transformer. Storage inside, seating on top—no one suspects a thing.
Use a Table That Fits Your Space
I found a small round table on Facebook Marketplace, painted it, and paired it with the banquette. No fancy dining set needed. Just vibes.
Add a Backrest (Even a Faux One)
No wall? No problem. Mount a piece of wood or upholstered panel behind the seat for back support. Bonus: makes you look like you hired a designer.
Mix in Throw Pillows for a Cozy Look
A few throw pillows = instant “I read books here with tea” energy. Even if it’s actually where you scarf cereal while doom-scrolling TikTok.
Hide Storage Underneath
Hinged tops or cabinet doors let you stash table linens, kids’ craft junk, or that ugly salad spinner you never use but refuse to toss.
Add Wall Sconces for Built-in Vibes
A sconce or two above your banquette creates a cozy booth feel, without the bad diner coffee. Also great mood lighting for late-night snacks.
Go Rustic with Reclaimed Wood
An old wood headboard or salvaged planks make for a rustic seat back. It’s budget-friendly and gives you that “collected over time” look.
Use a Bench You Already Own
Start simple. I shoved my entryway bench under the table to test the vibe before committing to a full DIY. Low effort, high reward.
Mount a Floating Shelf Above It
Adding a shelf gives the space more intention—and a place to display cookbooks, framed art, or your favorite fake plant.
DIY banquettes are kind of like the mullet of home design—casual on the outside, secretly genius on the inside. Whether you’ve got a tiny nook or just hate wobbly dining chairs, a banquette can upgrade your space without wrecking your budget.
And the best part? You don’t need power tools or a second mortgage. Just a little creativity, a weekend afternoon, and maybe a staple gun. Got a DIY banquette win (or fail)? Spill the tea below—I want all the ideas.
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