A bench is a long seat—often made out of wood, plastic, stone, or metal—that is meant to seat two or more people. While we mostly think of benches in the context of schools or gardens, various types of benches serve different purposes. Depending on the context they are placed in, they can add esthetic value, or meet a functional need. Here are some of the most common benches you will come across.

Concrete bench
Concrete benches are typically found in old gardens and parks. They are weather-resistant and long-lasting, making them a great choice to withstand the seasons. They are also available in a variety of different styles to meet the esthetic requirements of the surroundings. Some may also be installed as memorial benches, with a message, inscription, or dedication to a loved one. These benches are rather bulky, which makes them difficult to move. Moreover, since they are made of hard concrete, they may also feel uncomfortable at times.

Wooden bench
Wood is one of the most commonly used materials for making benches. It is a particularly popular choice for outdoor benches as it blends in seamlessly with the surroundings. Wooden benches are more cost-effective and comfortable, making them attractive to many people. However, these benches require annual maintenance such as staining or painting to remain in good condition and survive the changing weather. Skipping this step may cause deterioration of the wood quality, rendering them useless.

Wood is also a popular choice for many indoor benches. These can be made more comfortable with extra padding or cushioning, and placed in the dining room, near a porch or an entryway, or near windows, to make the room feel more inviting. Wood is also commonly used for making benches for schools and other educational institutions.

Metal bench
If you want to add a modern touch for your garden, opt for a metal bench. You can choose from a myriad of metals and finishes to find your perfect match. Metal benches are likely to withstand the weather better. They can also be painted with special metal paint to change the look of your garden easily. One of the only drawbacks of these types of benches is that it may be difficult to transport them from one place to another due to their weight.

Rattan bench
Rattan benches are also a popular garden seating option. They are made by braiding together the vines from climbing plants, giving them a natural appearance. They are lightweight, waterproof, and UV resistant. Moreover, these benches are convenient to clean, but before placing them outdoors in the rain, make sure to give them a coat of paint to make them more durable.

Curved bench
Most benches force you to look just one way. Curved benches are challenging this notion and are a great addition to any space to encourage conversation. The bench design enables people feel closer together, harnessing a feeling of kinship. These contemporary benches can seat 2 to 4 people comfortably, depending on their style of construction. However, they may cost more than rectangular benches of the same square footage, due to the complex bench design.

Tree bench
Tree benches can be of various styles, but they are used to create a circular seating arrangement around a tree trunk. The notion behind them is to create a warm, inviting space even when you are outdoors. Think about comfortably curling up on one of these benches to read a book or enjoy your cup of coffee. Depending on the material used, you need to ensure proper aftercare for these benches as they are at a higher risk of fungus, bacteria, and insect infestations under a tree.

Storage bench
A storage bench is a large drawer with four solid sides and a base. The seat can easily be lifted to store any items you like. These benches are particularly useful for families with young children so they can stow away their toys in easy-to-access places. Storage benches can be made of different materials like metal, wood, or plastic and are also lightweight and adjustable, making them a great option for DIY benches.