Key Takeaways 

• A bedroom bench instantly elevates your space with luxury hotel aesthetics 
• Ideal bench width is two-thirds of your bed's width for balanced proportions 
• Benches add practical functionality: seating, storage, and styling surfaces 
• Upholstered benches in bouclé, velvet, or linen offer the most comfort and style 
• Storage benches solve organisation challenges without sacrificing aesthetics 

That empty space at the foot of your bed represents untapped potential. A bedroom bench transforms this often-overlooked area into a functional and luxurious focal point that completes your bedroom design. 

Whether you're seeking practical storage solutions, comfortable seating for morning routines, or simply that polished designer look, a well-chosen bedroom bench delivers all three. 

Why Add a Bench to Your Bedroom? 

The bedroom bench has evolved from luxury hotel staple to Australian home essential. This versatile furniture piece solves multiple practical challenges whilst elevating your bedroom's aesthetic appeal. 

Morning Routine Convenience Sit comfortably whilst putting on shoes or planning your day. The bench provides stable seating at the perfect height for these daily tasks. 

Clothing Organisation Surface Lay out tomorrow's outfit, temporarily place folded laundry, or drape your dressing gown without cluttering your bed. 

Extra Seating for Guests When friends visit your bedroom, the bench offers comfortable seating without awkwardly perching on the bed. 

Visual Anchor and Room Definition The bench creates a visual endpoint to your bed, helping to define the sleeping zone in open-plan or large bedrooms. 

Hidden Storage Solutions Many bedroom benches feature lift-top compartments, perfect for storing extra pillows, seasonal blankets, or items you want accessible but out of sight. 

Luxury Hotel Aesthetic Instantly achieve that five-star hotel feel. Premium hotels universally include benches because they signal thoughtful design and elevated comfort. 

Choosing the Right Bedroom Bench: Essential Considerations 

Selecting the perfect bench requires balancing aesthetics, functionality, and spatial constraints. 

Size and Proportions 

The Two-Thirds Rule Your bench should span approximately two-thirds of your bed's width. This creates visual balance without overwhelming the space. 

Standard Bed Widths (Australia): 

• Single: 92cm (bench: 60-65cm) 
• King Single: 107cm (bench: 70-75cm) 
• Double: 138cm (bench: 90-95cm) 
• Queen: 153cm (bench: 100-110cm) 
• King: 183cm (bench: 120-130cm) 
• Super King: 203cm (bench: 135-145cm) 

Height Considerations Standard bench height ranges from 40-50cm. Ensure adequate clearance between the bench top and your bed mattress—aim for 10-15cm gap. 

Depth for Comfort Benches typically measure 30-45cm deep. Shallower benches (30-35cm) suit smaller bedrooms, whilst deeper options (40-45cm) provide more comfortable seating. 

Room Space Requirements 

Walkway Clearance Maintain at least 60-80cm between the bench and surrounding furniture. This ensures comfortable movement throughout your bedroom. 

Small Bedroom Solutions For compact spaces, consider narrow benches (30-35cm depth) or backless ottomans that can tuck partially under the bed frame. 

Material and Fabric Choices 

Bouclé Fabric The trending textured fabric adds sophisticated warmth and tactile interest. Bouclé's looped yarn construction creates visual depth whilst remaining surprisingly durable for daily use. Cream, off-white, and warm beige dominate Australian preferences. 

Velvet Upholstery Luxurious and soft, velvet provides rich colour depth and formal elegance. Choose darker velvets (charcoal, forest green, navy) for moody schemes, or soft neutrals (dove grey, blush, cream) for lighter aesthetics. 

Linen and Cotton Blends Natural fibres bring casual, relaxed sophistication. Linen's slightly crinkled texture suits coastal and Hamptons-inspired bedrooms. These breathable fabrics excel in warmer Australian regions. 

Leather and Faux Leather Modern leather benches in tan, cognac, or black create masculine, contemporary statements. Easy to wipe clean, leather suits busy households and pet owners. 

Timber Benches Solid wood benches crafted from oak, walnut, or Australian hardwoods bring natural warmth. Pair timber benches with cushioned seat pads for comfort. 

Bedroom Bench Styling Ideas: From Classic to Contemporary 

How you style your bedroom bench determines whether it becomes a mere functional piece or a stunning design feature. 

Classic Hotel-Inspired Styling 

The Foundation: Choose an upholstered bench in neutral tones—cream bouclé, soft grey velvet, or natural linen. 

Layering Elements: 

• Fold a textured throw lengthwise across the bench 
• Add one or two decorative cushions in complementary colours 
• Position a small tray with a scented candle and coffee table book 

Colour Palette: Whites, creams, soft greys, and warm beiges create serene, timeless aesthetics. 

Best For: Traditional bedrooms, Hamptons style, classic elegance 

Modern Minimalist Approach 

The Foundation: Select a sleek, low-profile bench with clean lines and smooth upholstery. 

Styling Strategy: Keep it intentionally sparse. The bench itself becomes the statement through its form and material quality. 

Occasional Additions: 

• Single folded throw in matching neutral tone 
• One architectural object (sculptural vase, design book) 
• Nothing else—embrace negative space 

Best For: Contemporary bedrooms, Scandi aesthetic, urban apartments 

Textural Layering for Depth 

The Foundation: Begin with a textured bench (bouclé, chunky knit, woven rattan). 

Building Layers: 

• Add a smooth linen or silk throw for contrast 
• Include velvet cushions in complementary tones 
• Position a woven basket underneath for additional texture 

Material Mixing: Combine soft with hard, rough with smooth. Pair a bouclé bench with a timber tray, metal picture frame, and ceramic vase. 

Best For: Boho bedrooms, coastal style, eclectic spaces 

Bold Contrast Statement 

The Foundation: Choose a bench in a colour that dramatically contrasts your bedding and walls. Think charcoal bench against white bedding, or sage green bench in a neutral room. 

Amplifying Impact: 

• Use patterned cushions that echo the bench colour 
• Add artwork above the bed that incorporates the accent colour 
• Repeat the colour in one other bedroom element 

Best For: Modern bedrooms, dramatic aesthetics, personality-driven spaces 

Storage Bench Solutions: Functionality Meets Style 

Storage benches represent smart Australian living—maximising function without compromising aesthetics. 

What to Store in Bedroom Benches 

• Extra bedding and pillows 
• Out-of-season clothing 
• Shoes and accessories 
• Children's toys and books 
• Bedroom clutter (chargers, reading materials, hobby supplies) 

Types of Storage Benches 

Lift-Top Storage: The entire seat lifts on hinges, revealing spacious interior compartment. Best for bulkier items. 

Drawer Storage: Built-in drawers slide out from the bench front. Excellent for organised storage of smaller items. 

Open Shelf Beneath: The space under the bench remains open, allowing decorative baskets or storage boxes. 

Styling Storage Benches 

Style the bench top identically to non-storage benches. The casual observer shouldn't immediately identify it as storage furniture. Use organisers inside to keep contents tidy and avoid overstuffing. 

Colour Coordination: Making Your Bench Work With Your Bedroom 

Colour choice determines whether your bench blends harmoniously or makes a bold statement. 

Monochromatic Matching 

Choose bench upholstery in the exact same colour family as your bedding or walls. Creates seamless, cohesive aesthetic. Perfect for small bedrooms and minimalist styles. 

Example: Cream bouclé bench + cream quilt cover + cream walls = serene tranquility 

Tonal Variation 

Select bench colour within the same family as primary bedroom colours, but several shades lighter or darker. Adds visual interest whilst maintaining harmony. 

Example: Soft grey bench + white bedding + pale grey walls = sophisticated layering 

Complementary Contrast 

Choose bench colour that contrasts your primary bedroom palette. The bench becomes a designed focal point. 

Example: Sage green bench + white bedding + natural timber = fresh, organic contrast 

Repeat Colour Strategy 

Pull accent colour from elsewhere in your bedroom (cushions, artwork, rug) and repeat it in your bench. Creates intentional colour flow. 

Example: Navy bench echoing navy in artwork + white bedding + cream walls = curated aesthetic 

Bedroom Bench Styling by Design Aesthetic 

Modern Coastal / Hamptons Style 

Bench Choice: Upholstered bench in white, cream, soft grey, or navy. Linen or cotton fabrics with whitewashed timber legs. 

Styling: White textured throw, natural fibre basket underneath, striped or navy cushions, minimal accessories. 

Scandi / Minimalist 

Bench Choice: Low-profile bench with clean lines. Light timber frame with neutral upholstery or simple timber bench with thin cushion. 

Styling: Single folded wool throw, one or two plain cushions maximum, embrace negative space. 

Modern Luxe / Contemporary Glam 

Bench Choice: Velvet or bouclé upholstery in rich colours (emerald, navy, charcoal, blush). Gold or brass legs, tufted details. 

Styling: Silk or velvet throw, plush cushions with texture, metallic tray with styling objects. 

Bohemian / Eclectic 

Bench Choice: Rattan bench, vintage trunk, kilim-upholstered bench. Embrace character. 

Styling: Layered textiles, mixed patterns, woven baskets underneath, natural elements. 

Industrial / Modern Farmhouse 

Bench Choice: Timber bench (dark walnut, reclaimed wood) with metal frame. Leather or canvas upholstery. 

Styling: Chunky knit or denim throw, canvas cushions, wire baskets underneath, minimal masculine accessories. 

Common Bedroom Bench Mistakes to Avoid 

Sizing Errors: Bench too long, too short, or too deep creates awkward proportions. Always measure and follow the two-thirds rule. 

Insufficient Clearance: Placing bench too close to bed or walls restricts movement. Maintain minimum 60-80cm clearance. 

Style Mismatch: Ultra-modern bench in traditional bedroom creates visual discord. Ensure bench aligns with overall aesthetic. 

Over-Styling: Piling excessive throws and cushions defeats functional purpose. Less is more—keep bench usable. 

Wrong Fabric for Lifestyle: White velvet bench with young children and dogs won't last. Be realistic about durability needs. 

Caring for Your Bedroom Bench 

Upholstered Bench Care 

Weekly: Vacuum with soft brush attachment, fluff cushions, check for loose threads 

Monthly: Rotate cushions, spot clean marks, use lint roller for pet hair 

Quarterly: Professional steam clean for heavily used benches, inspect frame stability 

Bouclé Fabric Specific Care 

Vacuum weekly with soft brush. Immediately blot spills with clean cloth (don't rub). Never pull loose loops—trim with scissors. Professional cleaning recommended for persistent stains. 

Leather Bench Care 

Wipe with slightly damp cloth weekly. Use leather conditioner every 3-6 months. Wipe spills immediately and avoid harsh chemicals. 

Timber Bench Care 

Wipe with slightly damp cloth, then dry immediately. Oil or wax according to finish every 6-12 months. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How wide should a bedroom bench be? 

The ideal bedroom bench width is approximately two-thirds of your bed's width. For a queen bed (153cm wide), choose a bench around 100-110cm long for balanced proportions. 

What is the purpose of a bench at the end of a bed? 

Bedroom benches provide comfortable seating for putting on shoes, create a surface for laying out clothing, add extra storage, offer additional guest seating, and complete the room's design with a polished aesthetic. 

Should a bedroom bench match the bed? 

Not necessarily. Your bench can match for a cohesive look, coordinate within the same colour family, or contrast for visual interest. The best approach depends on your design vision. 

Can you put a storage bench in a small bedroom? 

Yes, storage benches work particularly well in small bedrooms where multi-functional furniture is essential. Choose narrow benches (30-35cm deep) and ensure they don't extend beyond your bed's width. 

What do you put on a bedroom bench for styling? 

For classic styling, add one folded throw lengthwise and one or two decorative cushions. For minimalist looks, a single throw or bare bench works beautifully. Avoid over-styling—keep the bench functional. 

What material is best for bedroom benches in Australia? 

For Australian conditions, bouclé and velvet suit temperate zones. Linen excels in hot, humid areas. Leather works year-round and suits pet owners. Performance fabrics are ideal for families with children. 

How do you clean a bouclé bedroom bench? 

Vacuum weekly with a soft brush attachment. For spills, immediately blot with a clean cloth. Use mild soap and water for spot cleaning. Professional upholstery cleaning recommended for persistent marks. 

Can a bedroom bench work in a child's room? 

Absolutely. Storage benches help keep toys and clothing organised. Choose durable, easy-clean fabrics and avoid very light colours. Ensure the bench is stable and positioned safely. 

Should a bedroom bench have a back? 

Most bedroom benches are backless, allowing them to tuck close to the bed. Benches with backs (settees) work in spacious master bedrooms where they create genuine seating areas. 

How much weight can a bedroom bench hold? 

Quality bedroom benches typically support 100-150kg, adequate for one or two adults. Always check manufacturer specifications. Solid timber or metal frames provide better support than engineered wood. 

Conclusion: Transform Your Bedroom With the Perfect Bench 

A bedroom bench represents one of the most versatile and impactful furniture investments you can make. This single piece simultaneously solves practical challenges—providing seating, storage, and organisation—whilst elevating your bedroom's aesthetic to luxury hotel standards. 

The key to success lies in thoughtful selection based on your specific needs, space constraints, and design preferences. Whether you choose a sleek bouclé bench for modern sophistication, a plush velvet design for luxurious glamour, or a practical storage bench for organised living, ensure it serves both function and form. 

Start with measuring your space and bed dimensions. Consider your lifestyle needs—do you prioritise storage, seating, or pure aesthetics? Choose materials that suit Australian conditions and your household's daily reality. Style with restraint, keeping the bench functional whilst adding those finishing touches that make your bedroom feel complete. 

Transform that empty space at the foot of your bed into a purposeful, beautiful element that works as hard as it looks good. With the right bedroom bench, you'll wonder how you ever managed without this essential piece of bedroom furniture. 

Transform your bedroom from simply functional to beautifully complete with the right bench at the foot of your bed. Explore Luxo Living's bench seat range designed to complement Australian bedrooms—from cozy apartments to spacious master suites. Whether you need extra seating while getting dressed, a spot to lay out tomorrow's outfit, or hidden storage for extra bedding, find benches that blend seamlessly with your bedroom furniture and elevate your daily routine.