Hi johnatemp.......When we were building 4 yrs ago I found some inspirational pics on BH&G slideshows of different banquettes. They have really neat ideas........hope this helps.......bonnie

I am sick!

I wrote a long reply with links, etc.. and then my computer froze, so it didn't even post. :(

Starting over. lol

johnatemp, Are you thinking of building a banquette? I wanted to when we built, but DH didn't like the idea. I thought we had the perfect space. An inspiration picture and great article is in the below link.

{{!gwi}}

Also, I found old threads on the subject and there are many photos.
http://ths.gardenweb.com/forums/load/kitchbath/msg0517485121309.html

http://clippings.gardenweb.com/clippings/auntiebubba

More links:
http://patriciagrayinc.blogspot.com/2008/02/banquette-dining.html

My favorite, although they don't show the best part...the banquette.
http://design.hgtv.com/kitchen/Article_detail.aspx?id=100

Another great idea.
http://www.hgtv.com/dc-design-dining-room/contemporary-dining-room-with-banquette-seating/pictures/index.html

This ought to keep you busy for a while...ENJOY!!!

Here is a link that might be useful: Banquette

For truly upper end decor - this transformations was done is Mario Buatta in an entry hall.

Jim

Well, I hate to post mine after those pics!... but here is one in my kitchen.

The seat top opens for storage inside.

SueB, yours is just like the one I grew up sitting on in our kitchen. It went across an entire wall of windows in the kitchen, wrapped around, and provided both seating and storage. Very practical, and very lovely---both in my memory and in your beautiful kitchen photo :)

SueB
I like yours as well. Reminds me of a banquette that my sister had built in her Winston-Salem renovation years ago. I love those golden brown cushions (at least that's how they look on my monitor.) So cushy looking.

Could you please tell me the height of the bench - before cushions?

The cushions are actually a tweedy chenille that's red and green, but thanks. The seat is 18" high and 22" deep. The depth was an issue, which is why I mention it. The poor contractor had the whole thing almost built, and I sat on it and said 'uh oh...' -- it just wasn't deep enough (I think it was 17" or 18") to really be comfortable, especially since we have window sills there. So he had to rebuild it! Not one of my best days...

Okay, so about an hour later after 1st reading the responses I am back. Thank you so very much, NHB for the links. I love them & the article is very informing - esp about a thicker cushion & height/depth. I love Kitchenkelly's morgue drawers - hee hee:)
Sueb20 - your banquette is beautiful & exactly what I had in mind.
Chijim - yep, that is high line right there!! Is he the designer they call the king of chintz? Lovely & over the top:)

Well, I was thinking of a banquette but DH nixed the idea. Oh well, I enjoyed all the pics & info. I think it is so great for a breakfast nook.

Thank you all.
Smiles:)

sueb, that is so neat that you used an old sewing machine base for your table base. Lord, I wish I could be that creative. Your banquette looks really nice and all those windows. What a wonderful place to sit.

Here is my lowly banquette-- just an old restaurant booth.

This was the space beforehand, and I have four children with lots of friends and needed space in the kitchen for an island as well:

sueb20 - Thank you for the measurements. I took out a magnifying glass and can now see the red and green in your cushion. Very beautiful material.

johnatemp - Your DH sounds just like mine. We have been thinking of adding on to our family room, so last night I told DH that if we add on, I want a banquette! The children all agreed.

skatiero - I posted to you on the other banquette thread. :)

Skatiero - don't talk so bad about your banquette - it is wonderful. Great use of the space - chairs take up so much room. With kids & mama's peace of mind - yours is totally the way to go & you can take it with you if you ever move.

NHB, we have moved quite often (took advantage of the housing boom) that DH has mindset not to do anything permanent. He would rather me buy a nice antique to take with us.

I still enjoyed all the links & I am sure there is someone lurking wanting a banquette.

Smiles:)

My two favorites

{{!gwi}}

{{!gwi}}